Crime and punishment in medieval Aberdeen

14/05/08

A limited number of free places are still available for an illustrated talk on aspects of crime and punishment in medieval Aberdeen.

The talk by Chris Croly, Assistant Keeper (Research) will take place at Aberdeen Maritime Museum at 12.30pm on Wednesday, 21 May, 2008.

The talk will look at aspects of crime and punishment in Aberdeen in the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries which were times when punishment was swift, brutal and physical. Methods of punishment ranged from nailing people’s ears to pieces of wood, to branding, beheading and hanging, drawing and quartering. Aberdeen even had its own version of a Traitors’ Gate in the form of the Justice Port. Justice Port was one of the town’s gates where the heads of executed offenders were displayed.

The talk will also briefly look at the operation of the courts in medieval Aberdeen. Aberdeen’s Sheriff Court records date back to 1503 and are the best preserved and oldest Sheriff Court records in Scotland. They provide an almost unique glimpse into pre reformation justice in medieval Aberdeen: a time when Sheriffs could sentence thieves to be drowned.

Chris Croly, Assistant Keeper (Research) said: “Although justice seemed brutal at the time the system could and did evolve and change. It seems like a barbaric system to us now but we have to try and understand it on its own terms. Moreover, the existence of the Sheriff Court records in Aberdeen dating back to the start of the 16th century helps us piece together the story in Aberdeen better than anywhere else in Scotland.”

The talk will be at held in the auditorium of the Maritime Museum at 12.30pm and will last around 30 minutes. To book a free place which is essential telephone (01224) 337714.

ENDS

If you have any queries regarding this, or any other news story, please contact Aberdeen City Council on: 01224 522000.