Bickerstaffe Stocks

A set of stocks, likely dating back further than initially documented, with a documented reference in 1750, although believed to be earlier. The structure comprises two rectangular, round-headed sandstone pillars, approximately 1 meter in height, slotted on the inside and incorporating modern timber planks with two ankle holes. One of the stone pillars bears an Ordnance Survey bench mark at its top, and both pillars display tool marks. The upper sections of the pillars show more weathering than the lower, suggesting they were originally set deeper into the ground. A reference in 1750 records expenditure on "repairing of the lockes," indicating the stocks were already in use. The stocks are shown on Ordnance Survey maps from 1845, 1893, 1908, and 1927, and are located at the same position as recorded on the 1845 map. Recent improvements have been carried out by the Parish Council in 2006, including tidy-up work and the insertion of new timbers. The stocks are a tangible reminder of punishments administered from the medieval period until the 19th century. Their location at a crossroads within Bickerstaffe village exemplifies the public setting typical of such structures, designed to maximize visibility and serve as a deterrent.