From 1564
up to 1710, when it was withdrawn from use, over 150 people had
been executed with this 'humane' device.
Prior to 1564, the sword was used for beheading in Scotland.
However, beheading machines were being used in Europe. An
illustration by Lucas Cranach dated 1539 details one.
Where was it used?
The Scottish machine was made of oak and was portable
enough that it could be flat-packed and moved to whichever location
it was to be used.
Executions using the Maiden are known to have taken place in
Castlehill, Grassmarket and High Cross off the High Street in
Edinburgh.
Who was executed by the Maiden?
The condemned from all parts of Scotland were brought to
Edinburgh to be executed. The records of the Justiciary Court
of the time document various misdemeanours for which a person might
suffer execution by the Maiden. These include murder, incest,
stealing, treason, adultery, forgery and robbery.
Ironically, the person believed to have introduced the
idea for a beheading machine to Scotland was himself executed on 2
June at 1581 by the Maiden.
James Douglas, 4th Earl of Morton, ruled Scotland from 1572
to 1578 during the minority of James VI. He working hard to
maintain friendship with England, dealing ruthlessly with Mary,
Queen of Scots' supporters.
He was implicated in the murder of Mary's second husband,
Lord Darnley. An extract from the records of the Scottish
Justiciary at the time records his execution.