lockman

In 1780 James Alexander, lockman of Edinburgh, was by the city chamberlain paid for service at an execution 13s. 4d., with a fee of 2s. 6d. for the use of his rope.

At his back, the lockman reached up to grasp the noose dangling from the beam.

In contrast, Spanish hangmen had their houses painted bright red, and in France, Italy, and the Netherlands executioners' homes were located as far as possible from the main population and significant political spaces, most often being p…