Over the Centuries murderers, rapists, thieves, law breakers and even witches have been punished and executed in many ways in Aberdeenshire. Such methods included hangings, beheadings by kissing the maiden, wearing a branks (a scolds bridle), being put in the stocks, drowning in a pottie (a deep pool), flogging, mutilation and the ducking stool. These methods and many more are covered in Norman Adams book.

This reading is not for the feint hearted - there has been much blood shed in Aberdeenshire and many felons and their crimes and the way they were punished are described in this book. However those who sit down and read the book will be rewarded with true tales that have been expertly researched and well written. It reads more like a novel than historical accounts of a blood thirsty age where public executions were commonplace and much attended.

Famous Aberdonians such as the notoriously diligent thief catcher George Webster are included. He was a sherriff and criminal officer in the time before policemen and would go to great lengths and risk personal injury to catch villains. For example he spent 3 days and two nights shackled to James Robb, who was accused of rape and murder, before he could deliver him safely to Aberdeen Court.

The last witch to be burnt in Scotland, the last public hanging in Aberdeen and the last prisoner to be hung in private in Craiginches jail are all featured in the book.

Buy Hangman's Brae: True Crime And Punishment In Aberdeen And North East by Norman Adams at the cheapest price with free delivery available.

Hangman's Brae was published by Black and White Publishing in 2005. The ISBN is 1-84502-039-1.

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