Crime and Punishment on Exmoor

Molland Stocks

Petty criminals were usually dealt with in the local community through the manor court or later by the justices of the peace, local magistrates.

An ancient punishement for such offences, especially those involving anti-social behaviour, was several hours in the stocks at the mercy of the community. The stocks would normally be set up on the village green or other public space. The miscreant would be sat behind the stocks with his legs in the holes, locked in place by the upper bar. Most stocks have room for two offenders at a time.

Several parishes, such as Molland, still preserve their ancient stocks.