Trial of a cut throat
31/07/08
An exciting and dramatic 17th century trial will be re-enacted on Saturday, 2 August at the Tolbooth Museum, Aberdeen as part of the city’s Tartan Day celebrations.
In 1611 Harry Domingo Moir was tried in Aberdeen for being a notorious cut purse and cut throat. He preyed on travellers coming to and from the city. He would wait until they had left the safety of the city gates and then attack.
It was a time when travellers were at great risk of losing life and limb. Cut purses, which is another name for Highwaymen operated all over the country. Harry had operated outside of Aberdeen for many years and had been a consistent thorn in the side of all travellers in the area. The Burgh Council had been keen to arrest and try him for many years.
The dramatic trial of this notorious thief and murderer will be recreated at the Tolbooth Museum. The trial will include witnesses as well as lawyers acting for and against Harry. Members of the public will have a chance to listen to the arguments from both sides before deciding Harry’s fate. The public will be able to find him not guilty in which case he will be released but if they find him guilty he will be sent to the gallows.
The trial will take place at 11.00am, 12.00pm, 2.00pm and 3.00pm.
The Tolbooth Museum will be open from 10.00am until 5.00pm.
If you have any queries regarding this, or any other news story, please contact Aberdeen City Council on: 01224 522000.
