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Exeter's Executed

Page Updated 3rd August 2010
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This is the best compiled list I can make of those executed at Exeter although there will be many who have gone unrecorded over the ages. The place of execution depended on whether the crime was committed within the County and City of Exeter or in the County of Devon. Exeter's court was at the Guildhall, while the Devon court was at the Castle.

Places of Execution for Exeter

Magdalen Drop (Maudlin) - Situated to the east of the corner of College Avenue, in St Lukes College carpark. The condemned were transported by cart from South Gate Prison. The last execution at the Magdalen Drop was in 1818.
Methods - hanging and a recorded burning. See Map
Southernhay - an irregular place of execution. The last recorded execution here was by firing squad in 1645 during the Civil War.
Methods - burning and firing squad. See Map
Front of Guildhall - there are at least two known beheadings in the front of the Guildhall in 1483. See Map

Places of Execution for Devon

Livery Dole - used before the Heavitree Drop was the main site for executions for Devon crimes. The gallows were placed at the cross roads of Magdalen Road and Barrack Road, in the Livery Dole triangle. Between 1431 and 1531.
Method - burning. See Livery Dole and see Map
Gallows Cross, Heavitree - see Gallows Cross for a history and a range of photos, including the 1926 excavation of the burial yard.
Devon County Prison - The first execution at the New Drop was in 1795. The last public execution, which were held on the roof of the porter's lodge, was in 1866. The last execution in the prison was in 1943. See Devon County Prison and see Map
Halldown (Haldon) - sometimes, for a highway robbery, an execution would be ordered to take place at the scene of the crime. In 1793 such an execution took pace at Halldown, after which, the criminal's body was hanged in chains by the roadside to act as a deterrent.
Exeter Castle - some early executions took place in Castle Yard.
Methods - Beheading and one hanged, drawn and quartered. See Map

Burials - only burials at St Sidwell's Parish (see Map) have been noted; St Sidwell's was used mostly between 1577 and 1802 for the burial of some of the executed from both Heavitree and Maudlin. Some burials took place at Gallows Cross, Heavitree; Jenkins wrote "Before the erection of the New Goal, the place of execution was about two miles from the city, called Heavitree-Gallows, (though being in Sowton parish) adjoining to which is a small inclosed spot of land for the interment of those unfortunates who suffered. It was environed by a stone wall, at the expence of Mrs. Joan Tuckfield, of this city, who left an estate to the Corporation of Taylors, of Exeter, in trust, for keeping the said wall in repair." The burial site was given by the Mayor, John Petre in 1557 and situated in the gardens to the south of the cottages at the apex; human remains have been found at the spot.

It is possible, but not confirmed, that burials took place at Maudlin. There is one reference to a rumour of body snatching of two executed men, for dissection, from St Bartholomew's Yard in 1828, a year after the body snatchers, Burke and Hare were caught in Edinburgh. It is not known when they commenced burying those executed at the prison in the prison yard.

After the last execution at Exeter Prison in 1943, the gallows were taken down and shipped to Jersey where they performed their grisly task one more time in the 1950's.

Main Sources - The Penalty was Death by Grant John Harrison, Gates of the Close by Michael Fodor, Trewman's Exeter Flying Post, the Times, Alexander Jenkins' History of Exeter, Charles Worthy 's Suburbs of Exeter, John Waite and Ian Maxted. Special thanks to Sue Jackson for additional research into those buried at St Sidwell's Parish and for some additional names.

Surname Forename Year Date Crime Where executed and notes
de Porta Alured 1285 29th December Consenting, planning and harbouring offenders Convicted for his part in the murder of Walter Lechlade and hanged. Only Mayor of Exeter to be executed. There is some confusion over his date of execution as one document states he was executed on the 26th, St Stephens Day, the day before the sentence was announced - the trial was presided over by Edward I.
Poyfed Elias 1285 29th December Guilty of murder Convicted for murdering Walter Lechlade and hanged.
Stonyng Richard 1285 29th December Guilty of murder Convicted for murdering Walter Lechlade and hanged.
Amener Thomas 1285 29th December Planning the murder Convicted of planning the murder of Walter Lechlade and hanged.
Twate Roger 1285 29th December Aiding the felons with the planning. Guilty of allowing the murder of Walter Lechlade 'as much as he could' and hanged.
Steyner Drew 1431 7th August Unknown Burnt at the stake at Livery Dole.
St Leger Sir Thomas 1483 November Rebelled against Richard III, his brother in law. Hooker wrote that he was beheaded at the Carfoix (the junction of South Street, North Street, High Street and Fore Street). However, the Receivers Account of 1483 shows a sum for constructing a scaffold at the front of the Guildhall (aula in Latin), and that St Leger and Rame were held in the Guildhall overnight before their execution. "and amongst them sir Thomas St. Leger, the husband of the duchess of Exeter, a sister of Richard. The greatest efforts were made, and large sums offered to save his life; but the king was inflexible. St. Leger and several other gentlemen were beheaded.." A chronicle of England By James Edmund Doyle - 1864.
Rame Sir John 1483 November Rebelled against Richard III. Hooker wrote that he was beheaded at Carfoix (the junction of South Street, North Street, High Street and Fore Street). See St Leger above. "one Sir John Rame, who were brought to Excester, and there, at the Carfox, beheaded." Hooker.
Benet Thomas 1531 19th January Denying the supremacy of the Pope by nailing a paper to the door of the Cathedral in protest. Benet was to have been executed at Southernhay, but the Chamber objected as it was within the limits of the city and the prosecution was a Devon affair. Sir Thomas Dennis, the Sheriff of Devon ordered the place of execution to be moved to Livery Dole, where Benet was burnt at the stake. See extract from Book of Martyrs and Livery Dole memorial.
Waltheman John 1532 - Treason Heavitree - Oliver wrote "John Waltheman was executed as a traitor at Ringswell, who being given to blind prophesying did interpret and apply them to the King." He was hanged, drawn and quartered at 'Ryngeswell'.
Welshe Rev. Robert 1549 5th August Implicated in the murder of Kingwell, a protestant on Exe Island during the siege of the city. Welshe was hanged, with a rosary 'and other Popish trash' on a gibbet erected on his own church tower of St Thomas. His tarred body remained hanging until Mary came to the throne in 1553.
Prest Agnes 1557 15th August Committing "Heresy chiefly against the Sacrament of the Altar and for speaking against Idols". A Cornish woman, Prest's husband and children testified against her. She was burned at the stake at Southernhay. See extract from Parochial History of Cornwall and Livery Dole memorial
Yarde Alexander 1577 16th September - From St Sidwells Parish - details not known
Paddon John 1577 16th September - From St Sidwells Parish - details not known
Rogers John 1578 3rd October - From St Sidwells Parish - details not known
Archerde William 1579 29th March - From St Sidwells Parish - details not known
Kegill William 1579 29th March - From St Sidwells Parish - details not known
unknown - 1580 16-19 July - Prisoner put to death at the Assisses (sic) [date blank but entered between 16th and 19th] Buried at St Sidwells Parish.
unknown female - 1582 1st September Cutting of a purse From St Sidwells Parish - details not known
Hill William 1587 10th April - Executed and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Bowden Clement 1587 29th July - Executed and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Aste Peter 1591 15th January - Executed and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Burridge Nicholas 1591 15th January - Executed and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Foster William 1594 16th March - Executed and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Quantour Nicholas 1595 14th March - Executed and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Savidge Richarde 1598 29th July - Executed at the gallows - Buried St Sidwell parish
Dowdall James 1599 13th August Refused to take the oath of supremacy Hanged, drawn and quartered at Rougemont Castle.
Barne George 1604 30th July - Prest (pressed) to death and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish - normally, if the accused refused to plead he was "... remanded to the prison from whence he came and put into a low dark chamber, and there be laid on his back on the bare floor, naked, unless when decency forbids; that there be placed upon his body as great a weight as he could bear, and more, that he hath no sustenance, save only on the first day, three morsels of the worst bread, and the second day three droughts of standing water, that should be alternately his daily diet till he died, or, till he answered."
Foster Christopher 1604 30th July - Executed at Heavitree and buried St Sidwell parish
Thomas John 1604 31st July - Executed at Heavitree and buried St Sidwell parish
Caden Edmund Edmonde 1606 27th March Murder Executed at Heavitree and buried St Sidwell parish
Wilkins John 1608 8th July - Born in the city, executed at Maudlins and buried St Sidwell parish
Hale William 1608 25th July - Executed at Heavitree and buried St Sidwell parish
Robins Symon 1608 25th July - Executed at Heavitree and buried St Sidwell parish
Wilkins Richard 1610 12th July Witchcraft Executed at the Maudlins and buried St Sidwell parish
Andrew William 1611 29th July - Executed at Heavitree and buried St Sidwell parish
Canliffe Walter 1612 9th August Murdered his son A miller, executed at Heavitree and buried St Sidwell parish
Adames Robert 1612 13th October Piracy Executed at Heavitree and buried St Sidwell parish
Tooker Toocker Thomas 1612 23rd March Poisoned his wife. He 'was condemned at the Assize, held at the castle, and executed at Heavitree gallows' Tooker had recently been appointed the sword bearer of Exeter – he was buried in St Sidwell parish
Gater Henrie 1613 27th July Murder Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Burgis Philip 1613/14 22nd March - Buried St Sidwell parish.
Swanson Thomasine 1614 29th August Murder Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Kendall Robertt 1616 13th January - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish - buried on 14th January.
Smyth Phillip 1627 7th April Murder Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Moore Peter 1641 - Poisoned master, Mr Bidgood - put powdered white mercury
into his Master's "messe of pottage"		 Heavitree - Moore was taken, "upon a sledge,.....the common place of execution, bowing his body to the people round about him so well as he could, he spake after this manner." Buried St Sidwell parish.
Robins Walter 1642 23rd April - Executed and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish.
Sadler Major 1645 October Traitor Shot at Southernhay. Sadler had been an officer in the Parliamentary army before defecting to the King. He was captured when Tiverton was taken in October 1645, court martialed and executed for treason.
Herring
 William 1652 17th August - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Attwill
 William 1653 20th March - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Pittford William 1653 20th March - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Hossington Richard 1655 7th May - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Reeves Richard 1655 8th May - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Hillyeard Thomas 1655 8th May - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Poulton Thomas 1655 8th May - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Davies Edward 1655 8th May - Executed at Heavitree and buried in St Sidwell's Churchyard.
Willeies Edward 1655 8th May - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Giles alias Hobbs John 1655 8th May
Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Penruddock Col. John 1655 16th May Taking up arms against the Commonwealth Beheaded at Rougemont Castle
Jones Francis 1655 16th May Taking up arms against the Commonwealth Beheaded at Rougemont Castle
Groves Mr Hugh 1655 17th May Taking up arms against the Commonwealth Beheaded at Rougemont Castle and buried in St Sidwell's Chancel.
May John 1664 23rd August - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Jordaine Jone 1664 27th August Murder Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Branck Marke 1666 28th March - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Cox
Cock		 Jane 1666 28th March - Heavitree - Buried St Sidwell's parish
Branke Mark 1666 28th March - Heavitree - Buried St Sidwell's parish
Turner Thomasin 1671 7th August - Hanged, probably at Heavitree - Buried St Sidwell's parish. The first that the bell was told (tolled) out for after thar (her) hanging up
Trembles Mary 1682 25th August Witchcraft Heavitree – from Bideford
Lloyd Temperance 1682 25th August Witchcraft Heavitree – from Bideford
Edwards Susannah 1682 25th August Witchcraft Heavitree – from Bideford
Molland Alice 1685 - Witchcraft Hanged – last to be executed as a witch
Foweracres J 1685 - Involved in the Monmouth Rebellion One of 27 condemned to death around Devon. In the event, only 2 to 3 were executed; it is not known if Foweracres was one. The sentence included "The heads and quarters of these persons to be fixed where the King shall appoint."
Billing Nicholas 1696 2nd May Clipping Hanged at Maudlin and buried at St Sidwells.
Bird - 1698 1st October Coining Reported in Dawks's News Letter.
Griffin Hubert 1700 8th November - Hanged at Maudlin and buried at St Sidwells.
Hale Edmon 1716 19th April - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Salsbery John 1721 21st April - Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Wall William 1727 18th September Murder of a young girl at the hospital Executed at Heavitree and recorded in St Sidwell's Parish
Cruse Benjamin 1732 27th April Murder of Mr Pyke, a Custom-house Officer Heavitree gallows – the crush to see was so great, the condemned prisoners were taken away to restore order, and returned before 6pm to a newly erected gallows.
Woon Stephen 1732 27th April Murder of Mr Pyke, a Custom-house Officer Heavitree
Warren Mary 1735 8th May Murder of her male bastard child Heavitree
Dulen Mary 1735 29th August Murder of her male bastard child Heavitree
Woolrot Nathniel 1736 March Highway robbery Heavitree
Bird John 1736 August Horse theft Heavitree
Collins John 1737 26th August Murder of Jane Uprot Heavitree
Prince Thomas 1737 26th August Murder of wife, Ann Prince Heavitree
Baker Benjamin 1737 26th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Ireland John 1738 March Horse theft Heavitree
Taylor John 1738 July Horse theft Heavitree
Tickner James 1739 31st August Desertion Shot - Buried at St Sidwell's parish on the 1st September.
Davey Phillip 1739 March Housebreaking Heavitree
Denton William 1739 31st August Housebreaking Heavitree – alias Penton or Vento. Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Meeds Simon 1739 31st August Housebreaking Heavitree
Tickner James 1739 31st August Housebreaking Heavitree
Woodford Henry 1740 11th April Housebreaking Heavitree
Bale John 1740 11th April Horsetheft Heavitree
Bryant Johanna 1740 11th April Murder of her bastard child Heavitree
Turner Dinah 1740 11th April Murder of her male bastard child Heavitree
Dugger William 1740 11th April Housebreaking Heavitree
Cummins Ann 1740 11th April Murder of her male bastard child Heavitree
Diggott Thomas 1740 11th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Jessing israel 1740 11th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Phillips Simon 1740 11th April Murder of Richard Philips Heavitree
Every John 1740 29th August Murder of his male bastard child Heavitree
Allen Martha 1740 29th August Stealing a horse Heavitree
Mounson John 1740 29th August Arson Heavitree
Sheppard Matthew 1740 30th April Housebreaking Heavitree
Kennard Daniel 1742 30th April Arson Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Wroe Peter 1742 30th April Desertion Shot at Heavitree. Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Gibbons David 1743 15th April Murder of his wife, Elizabeth Gibbons. Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Stribling Alice 1743 15th April Murder of her apprentice, Elizabeth Tossle Heavitree
Lawford John 1743 15th April Forgery Heavitree
Teague George 1743 29th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Vine Rev. Peter 1743 5th October Rape of Elizabeth Dark Heavitree
Farey William 1744 not known Uttering? Heavitree - convicted 13th March, sentenced but execution not confirmed.
Grote Mary 1744 not known Arson Heavitree - convicted 13th March, sentenced but execution not confirmed.
Saunders Christopher 1744 not known Sheep theft Heavitree - convicted 13th March, sentenced but execution not confirmed.
Sowden John 1744 not known Sheep theft Heavitree - convicted 13th March, sentenced but execution not confirmed.
Harding Philip 1745 not known Sheep theft Heavitree - convicted 18th March, sentenced but execution not confirmed.
Fosbery William 1745 not known Highway robbery Heavitree - convicted 18th March, sentenced but execution not confirmed.
Dyer Thomas 1746 11th April Murdered his wife, Ann Dyer. Heavitree
Sanderson Robert 1746 17th September Highway robbery Heavitree
Momford James 1746 17th September Highway robbery Heavitree
Davis Humphrey 1746 17th September Highway robbery Heavitree
Tuckerman John 1747 April Murdered his mother, Agnes Tuckerman. Heavitree
Wadland Mary 1747 18th September Murder of her male bastard son. Heavitree
Whitehouse James 1748 March Highway robbery Heavitree
Wilson Thomas 1749 7th April Highway robbery Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Bayly Ricard 1749 7th April Burglary Heavitree
Bond Richard 1749 4th August Murder of John Richards Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish. Buried on 5th August.
Cudmore Matthew 1749 4th August Horse theft Heavitree
Camp John 1749 4th August Burglary Heavitree
Murphy Edward 1750 12th April Burglary Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Packard Elizabeth 1750 12th April Murdered her husband with poison Heavitree - Burnt at stake
Phillips Susan 1750 12th April Murder of her male bastard child Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Leonard John 1750 12th April Coining? Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Collier Agnes 1750 3rd August Murder Heavitree - alias Cole
Hanford Robert 1751 March - Heavitree - sentenced but execution not confirmed.
Pope John 1751 March Murdered John Elliott Heavitree - sentenced but execution not confirmed.
Davy John 1752 3rd April Murdered his wife, Ann Davy Heavitree - his body was later Hanged in chains.
Phillips Joseph 1752 3rd April Burglary Heavitree
Wilson John 1752 3rd April Highway robbery Heavitree
Stamp Robert 1752 3rd April Highway robbery Heavitree
Jennings William 1752 10th April Highway robbery Heavitree - Jennings sent a letter to Andrew Brice while awaiting execution, requesting that his last confession appear in his newspaper. Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Huish William 1753 31st March Poisoned his father, and beat his mother to death. Found guilty of the second offence. Heavitree - In 1742 an Act of Parliament was passed to speed up executions and allow the bodies of the executed to be dissected. Alexander Jenkins wrote "and his body sent to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, where it was anatomized; his bones remained there in the cupola, for many years (a striking example to all parricides) 'till they mouldered into dust."
Clay John 1753 31st August Housebreaking Heavitree
Bowan Lawrence 1753 31st August Sheep theft Heavitree
Colby John 1754 5th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Knight John 1754 19th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Allen John 1754 23rd August Highway robbery Heavitree
Butcher Henry 1755 24th March Murdered his wife, Elizabeth Butcher. Heavitree
Reed James 1755 4th April Stole from a house Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Hooper William 1755 4th April Highway robbery Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Vinneron John 1755 4th April Sheep theft Heavitree
Wright John 1755 14th August Housebreaking Heavitree
Broome Henry 1755 14th August Cattle theft Heavitree
Menhennit Charles 1755 14th August Horse theft Heavitree
Pendrick Charles 1755 15th August - Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Jones Thomas 1756 22nd April Burglary Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish on 23rd April.
Bole Clement 1756 23rd September Housebreaking Heavitree
Hill Stephen 1757 18th August Stole from a house. Heavitree
Rowe Roger 1757 18th August Highway robbery Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish on 19th August.
Swanscombe George 1757 18th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Smale Thomas 1758 20th March Murder of James Harris Heavitree
Pearce James 1758 31st March Cattle theft Heavitree
Lemon George 1758 31st March Highway robbery Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Sapper Stephen 1758 31st March Highway robbery Heavitree
Perkin Christian 1758 31st March Housebreaking Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Dennis Samuel 1758 31st March Burglary Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Johnson Henry 1758 31st March Housebreaking Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Pearce Thomas 1758 31st March Housebreaking Heavitree
Huish William 1758 31st March Housebreaking Heavitree
Edwards Richard 1758 31st March Housebreaking Heavitree
Edwards Richard 1758 31st March - Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Johnson Henry 1758 31st March - Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Lemon George 1758 31st March - Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Perkins Christian 1758 31st March - Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Dennis Samuel 1758 31st March - Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Littimore Robert 1759 2nd April Murder of John Harvey and theft of 7 gns. Heavitree - his bodied went for dissection.
Morgan John 1759 19th April Stole from a dwelling house Heavitree - he was 16 years old.
Carter Thomas 1759 19th April Burglary Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish on 20th April.
Connor Patrick 1759 19th April Burglary Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish on 20th April.
Butler Patrick 1759 19th April Rape of Mary Baker Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish on 20th April.
Watson John 1759 19th April Rape of Mary Baker Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish on 20th April.
Darras Charles 1759 25th April Murder of Jean Menaux Heavitree
Tremaine Fleurant 1759 25th April Murder of Jean Menaux Heavitree
Pitiel Pierre 1759 25th April Murder of Jean Menaux Heavitree
Boudecq Louis 1759 25th April Murder of Jean Menaux Heavitree
Lagnol Pierre 1759 25th April Murder of Jean Menaux Heavitree
Homer Jonathan 1759 24th August Highway robbery Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Reynolds John 1759 24th August - Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Homer Jonathan 1756 24th August - Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Halway John 1759 24rd August Highway robbery Heavitree
Sutton Thomas 1759 24rd August Highway robbery Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Kellaway John 1759 24th August - Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Reynolds John 1759 24th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Richards John 1759 24th August Escaped from custody for a previous crime. Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Hingston Edward 1760 24th March Murder of Mordecai Solomon Heavitree
Kennady Edward 1760 11th April Housebreaking Heavitree - Recorded by Brice
Wish Samuel 1761 8th July Murdered his wife Magdalen Road drop
Harris Richard 1761 17th July Murder of John Carn Heavitree
Woodrow Jonas 1761 17th July Murder of Elizabeth Zane Heavitree
Downey William 1761 31st July Highway robbery and rape Heavitree
Fox James 1761 31st July Highway robbery and rape Heavitree
Mercer Thomas 1761 31st July Highway robbery and rape Heavitree
Kenny Dennis 1761 31st July Highway robbery and rape Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Haynes Robert 1762 16th April Murder of a man Heavitree
Mitchell Pierce 1762 16th April Murder of Vincent Bevan Heavitree
Goddard William 1762 16th April Highway robbery Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Sackemore John 1762 16th April Highway robbery Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Clegg Robert 1763 March Robbery Heavitree
Watts James 1763 March Robbery Heavitree
Langton William 1763 March Burglary Heavitree
Gooding James 1763 30th July Murder of Samuel Sprogett Heavitree
Connor Richard 1763 30th July Murder of Samuel Sprogett Heavitree
More Pablo 1763 30th July Murder of William Lock Heavitree
Maunder Nicholas 1764 26th March Murder of William Couch Heavitree
Loxham William 1764 6th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Loxham William 1764 6th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Carver Thomas 1764 6th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Cause William 1764 6th April Burglary Heavitree
Goss Joal 1764 14th September Horse theft Heavitree
Nicholls George 1765 22nd May Highway robbery Heavitree
Higgins Richard 1765 22nd May Highway robbery Heavitree
Staddon Elizabeth 1765 16th August Arson Heavitree
Vogwell Thomas 1765 16th August Burglary Heavitree
Burk David 1766 4th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Connor James 1766 4th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Maroney David 1766 8th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Hockaday John 1767 28th August Escaped custody Heavitree
Stiles John 1768 2nd May Rape of Ann Tucker Heavitree
Oliver James 1768 2nd May Rape of Ann Tucker Heavitree
Owen John 1768 2nd May Rape of Ann Tucker Heavitree
Windsor Ann 1769 27th March Murder of her 6 month old bastard child, Mary Heavitree
Conig Christopher 1771 25th March Murder of James Legett Heavitree
Brooke jr John 1772 28th August Sheep theft Heavitree
Mason Nicholas 1772 28th August Stole from a house Heavitree
Hallson Frances 1773 22nd March Murder of her 3 week old son Heavitree - aka Mary Hutton
Wilkinson Frances 1773 2nd April Horse theft Heavitree
Perry James 1774 8th April Burglary Heavitree
Edwards William 1774 8th April Burglary Heavitree
Winworth John 1774 19th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Bradlick Edward 1776 12th April Cattle theft Heavitree
Wood Richard 1777 12th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Bartley Thomas 1777 8th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Lamb Thomas 1777 8th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Hamill Arthur 1777 8th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Hutchings Edward 1779 22nd March Murder of hi wife, Mary Hutchings Heavitree
Bishop Alice 1779 25th May Murder of her infant daughter Heavitree
Wooton William 1780 20th March Murder Heavitree
MacMahon John 1780 25th August Stealing from a dwelling house Heavitree Drop - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Twisden Alice 1780 25th August Stealing from a dwelling house Heavitree Drop - Buried at St Sidwell's parish - alternative name Widdison
Andrews John 1781 24th August Cattle theft Heavitree Drop - Buried at St Sidwell's parish. See Contemporary Broadsheet
Waldron Elizabeth 1782 25th March Murder of her male bastard child Heavitree Drop - Buried at St Sidwell's parish. See Contemporary Broadsheet
Trathing John 1782 25th August Murder of Mary Balkwill Heavitree Drop. See Contemporary Broadsheet
Downing Rebecca 1782 29th July Poisoning her master, Richard Jarvis

Hanged and burnt at Heavitree - standard punishment for poisoning. The last verse of a ballad about her went:
"When to the fatal stake I come
And dissipate in flame.
Let all be warn'd by my sad doom.
To shun my sin and shame.
May I thus expiate my crime.
And whilst I undergo.
The fiery trial here on earth.
Escape the flames below."
Rebecca Downing was 15 years old according to Sabine Baring-Gould.
Masters Simon 1783 29th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Barnes Amos 1783 29th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Pidgeon John 1783 29th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Frazer Simon 1783 29th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Dogherty Patrick 1783 29th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Mann Richard 1783 29th August Sheep stealing Heavitree
Rumbelow Elizabeth 1783 29th August Sheep stealing Heavitree - 63 years old.
Ashbolt John 1783 26th September Robbery near Exweek Bridge Hanged at Magdalen Gallows - member of the 20th Regiment of Foot
Lee John 1783 26th September Robbery near Exweek Bridge Hanged at Magdalen Gallows - member of the 20th Regiment of Foot
Harris Thomas 1784 2nd April Highway robbery Heavitree
Peters William 1784 2ns April Highway robbery Heavitree
Smart Thomas 1784 7th August Murder of Thomas Ewings Heavitree
Folland John 1784 20th August Highway robbery Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Quirk James 1784 20th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Elwood Robert 1785 1st April Highway robbery Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Bliss John 1785 1st April Horse theft Heavitree
Coombe William 1785 1st April Horse theft Heavitree
Clarke William 1785 1st April Burglary Heavitree
Freeman (Friman) Thomas 1785 1st April Stole from a house Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Dare John 1785 1st April Burglary Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish.
Russell Thomas 1786 27th March Murdered with an axe at Cawsand, Mrs John Breese and stabbed with a bayonet John Breese an artillery man. Heavitree - extract from a Contemporary Broadsheet
Herslake James 1786 7th April Cattle theft Heavitree
Brooks William 1786 7th April Horse theft Heavitree
Haynes Daniel Rendall 1786 25th August Horse theft Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish - buried on 27th August.
Fitzgerald William 1787 24th January Highway robbery Magdalen Drop - there was only one other execution at the Magdalen Drop after this one, when Holmyard was hanged in 1818.
Leigh/Lee Richard 1787 9th April Burglary See Patrick below.
Joyce Richard 1787 9th April Housebreaking See Patrick below.
Dolling Edward 1787 9th April Sheep theft See Patrick below.
Patrick William 1787 9th April Burglary "Monday William Patrick, Edward Dolling, Richard Joyce and Richard Lee, on whom sentence of death was past at the assizes for the County of Devon, as mentioned in a former paper, were executed pursuant thereto at Heavitree Gallows. They all confessed their guilt and behaved very becoming their unhappy situation." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 12th 1787.
Crispin Thomas 1787 6th August Sodomy "On Monday last, at six in the morning Thomas Crispin, convicted at our last assizes of a detestable crime, was executed at Heavitree Gallows, pursuant to his sentence. At the place of execution he confessed the crime for which he suffered." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - August 9th 1787.
Piper John 1787 17th August Housebreaking "Friday last was executed at Heavitree gallows, pursuant to his sentence, John Piper, aged 21.–While under sentence, and at the fatal tree, he behaved with decency, and appeared very penitent. Before he left the goal (sic) he made a voluntary confession of his having, with John Parsons (his uncle) and one Short, who has absconded, committed divers burglaries, and also of his having robbed fields, barns, &c. in company with a farmer of Iddesley." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - August 23rd 1787.
Smith William 1788 24th March Murder of Philip Smith 1788. Extract from the Flying Post
Richards John 1788 24th March Murder of Philip Smith See Smith above.
Salter Walter 1788 24th March While smuggling, murder of William Jenkins and William Scott See Smith above. Father of Peter Salter below.
Salter Peter 1788 24th March While smuggling, murder of William Jenkins and William Scott See Smith above. Son of Walter Salter above.
Goslin Daniel 1788 24th March While smuggling, murder of William Jenkins and William Scott See Smith above.
Loosemore Peter 1788 4th April Cattle theft "On Friday last Peter Loosemore was executed at Heavitree gallows, pursuant to his sentence, for bullock stealing. He behaved every way becoming his unhappy situation." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 10th1788.
Waybourn James 1789 3rd April Highway robbery of farmer Stokes near Bickleigh Wood. Heavitree - he refused to answer any questions on the gallows about his guilt. See Snow below.
Snow
alias Skitch		 William 1789 3rd April Breaking into the house of Richard Adams in the Parish of Romansleigh. "... He declared that day to be the happiest of his life; and exhorted the spectators to avoid his errors. He had hung but a few seconds, when the rope slipped from the gallows, and he fell to the ground... Skitch heard their sorrowful exclamations, and said, with an air of compassion, "Good people, be not hurried; I can wait a little". And the executioner wishing to lengthen the rope, which had slipped, Skitch calmly waited till Waybourn was quite dead, when the rope was taken from the deceased's arms, in order to compleat the execution of Skitch, who was a second time launched from the cart amidst the tears of thousands." Times.
Stephens william 1789 21st August Highway robbery Heavitree
Ford Richard 1789 21st August Highway robbery Heavitree
Turner George 1789 21st August Housebreaking Heavitree
Pope John 1790 13th August Highway robbery Heavitree
Hole James 1790 13th August Cattle theft Heavitree
Glanville Henry 1791 1st April Arson Heavitree
Ball William 1791 1st April Stole from a house Heavitree
Pierce Joan 1791 26th August Murder of her female bastard child Heavitree
Tremlett William 1792 13th April Housebreaking Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish. "Friday last, John Ebden and William Cuddiver, for sheep stealing; William Tremlett, for burglary; and Ebdon, Tremlett, and Fullarton behaved as became their unhappy situations, but Cuddiver and Butler expressed no outward signs of contrition; particularly Cuddiver, who died in great animosity with his prosecutors (unreadable word) Judge, declaring that, if possible, he would torment the Judge to death, and that he would be at the Judge's elbow the next time he tried on the same bench.– Ebden confessed at the gallows his having stole sheep from Col. Simcoe, and Mrs. Middleton, of Broadhembury, besides those for which he suffered.–Cuddiver was a native of Hungton, near Ashburton, and not Chagford as has been enormously reported" Exeter Flying Post - April 1792.
Ebden John 1792 13th April Sheep theft Heavitree
Fullarton James 1792 13th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Butler William 1792 13th April Highway robbery Heavitree
Cuddiver William 1792 13th April Sheep theft Heavitree
Martin Francis 1793 28th March Robbed postboy Heavitree - his body Hanged in chains at Halldown
"Thursday was executed at Halldown, pursuant to his sentence, Francis Martin, for robbing the mail. Previous to his execution, he confessed the robbery and related some imperfect sketches of his life." Exeter Flying Post - April 4th 1793.
Stone Joan 1794 4th April Arson Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish. Last to be hanged at Heavitree and buried 8th April.
"Friday last was executed at Heavitree Gallows, pursuant to her sentence, Joan Stone, for setting fire to her Master's dwelling house and barn, by which both were consumed. She was but 17 years of age." Exeter Flying Post - April 10th 1794.
Martinborough William 1795 20th March Wilful murder of Henry Smith First to be hanged at the New Drop, Devon County Gaol – he was described as 'a man of colour'. From Samuel Poole's diary "a Black was Hung on the new Drop for a murder he was the first that was hung at the new Goal."
McGregor William 1795 14th August Attacked and robbed Daniel Buckley on highway at Plymouth "On Friday last, George Rapson, James Lee and Wm. McGregor, were executed at the New Drop, pursuant to their sentence, at the last Assizes. They all confessed their guilt, and died penitent." Exeter Flying Post - August 20th 1795. Extract from a Contemporary Broadsheet
Lee James 1795 14th August Attacked and robbed Daniel Buckley on highway at Plymouth Hanged at the New Drop, Exeter Gaol
Rapson George 1795 14th August Stealing six cattle and selling them for £36 Hanged at the New Drop, Exeter Gaol
Wilson James 1796 1st April Robbing the house of Norman MacCaslin, at Plymouth Dock. Hanged at the New Drop, Exeter Gaol. Extract from the Flying Post
Maiden
(Meadon)		 Joseph 1796 5th August Forgery or 'coining' Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish. "On Friday last Joseph Madin, who was convicted at the last Assizes for money coining, was executed, pursuant to his sentence, at the Drop over the New Gaol." Exeter Flying Post - August 11th 1796.
Nicholson
alias Williams		 James 1798 April For paying forged drafts. Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish. "On Monday, James Nicholson, convicted at the last assizes of forgery, was executed at the New Drop, pursuant to his sentence." Exeter Flying Post - April 12th 1798.
McIntyre John 1798 17th August Escaping from prison hulk awaiting transportation Had been reprieved from execution for a previous crime and sentenced to transportation.
Peel Peter 1798 17th August Escaping from prison hulk awaiting transportation Had been reprieved from execution for a previous crime and sentenced to transportation
Martin Mary Ann 1799 23rd March Poisoning Margaret Palmer "Saturday last Mary Ann Martin, whom we announced in our last to have received sentence of death for the murder of Margeret Palmer, by poison, was executed pursuant thereto, at the Drop, over the Porter's Lodge at the New Gaol, but permitted her innocence to the last moment of her life. She remained on the platform about an hour and half before she could be persuaded to give the final signal, however, at the quarter past two she was launched into eternity, and her body was delivered to the Surgeons of the Devon and Exeter Hospital for dissection." Exeter Flying Post - March 1799.
Limpany Betty 1799 5th April Arson of the house of her master at Kentisbeare "On Friday last Betty Limpany, aged 18 years, who was convicted at the last Assizes for the County of Devon, for setting fire to the house of her master, Wm. Leech, of Kentisbeare, was executed pursuant to her sentence, at the drop over the Porter's Lodge of the New Gaol. She acknowledged her guilt, was very penitent, and behaved in a manner becoming her unhappy situation." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 11th 1799.
Feltham Edward 1800 22nd August Stealing a horse at Buckland St Mary, as part of a "chain of horse stealers, called the Strummers (?), who transfer horses from one to another." "After conviction he became penitent, said he had been guilty of every crime except murder, and declared his sorrow for his past offences." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - August 28th 1800.
Chimleigh John 1800 22nd August Highway robbery of Mr Richard Wakeham between Totnes and Dartmouth Chimleigh used a large pistol to threaten a second victim. "... They wer suspected to have been Americans, but at the gallows they acknowledged that they were Englishmen, but gave no further account of themselves. (see below) ... whilst Chimleigh seemed equally hardened, and did not appear even to be depressed at his unhappy situation." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - August 28th 1800.
Buywater Joseph 1800 22nd August Highway robbery of Mr Richard Wakeham between Totnes and Dartmouth Buywater used a large bludgeon to threaten his victim.
(from above) "Buywater appeared very penitent... " Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - August 28th 1800.
Trick John 1801 6th April Stealing two sheep Hanged at Devon County Gaol - "John Trick aged 33, and W M Thorne aged 28, also born in Devon, two poor labourers in husbandry, were convicted of stealing a sheep, property of Richard Garnsey, of St. Gile's, Devon, in February last. Charity Hore, an accomplice, was admitted king's evidence, and part of the mutton was found in their dwellings. They confessed their guilt, but said they were sedruced to it by Charity Hore, while conversing on the enormous prices of provisions. Trick was also charged with handling another sheep, property of Nicholas Bowden." Broadsheet of E Brice, printer Exeter
Pooley James 1801 6th April Stealing two sheep Hanged at Devon County Gaol
Thorne William 1801 6th April Stealing two sheep Hanged at Devon County Gaol - Jointly charged with John Trick above.
Fisher Richard 1801 6th April Stealing a bullock Hanged at Exeter Gaol and buried in St Sidwells. Extract from a Contemporary Broadsheet
Penson Henry 1801 6th April Stole a wether sheep at Teignmouth Hanged at Devon County Gaol
Deane John 1801 6th April Robbing 5 shillings on the highway at Stoke Damerel Hanged at Devon County Gaol. Extract from a Contemporary Broadsheet
Bilson James 1801 6th April Theft from the Naval Stores at Plymouth Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish. Buried 9th April. Stole seventeen seamen's beds and nineteen hammocks.
Hockaday William 1802 27th August Burglary and serious assault at Saltram, Plymouth One of a band of twelve involved in the crime, although only Hockaday and Jewell below were caught.
"On Friday last Wm. Hockaday, Matthias Jewell and John Pollard, were executed on the Drop, at the New Gaol, pursuant to their sentences at the last assizes for the county of Devon, they behaved with great penitence and humility, becoming their unhappy situation" Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - September 2nd 1802.
Pollard John 1802 27th August Forging a letter of attorney Hanged at the New Drop, Exeter Gaol - See above.
Jewell Mathias 1802 27th August Burglary and serious assault at Saltram, Plymouth One of a band of twelve involved in the crime, although only Jewell and Hockaday above were caught. See above.
Smith William 1802 9th April Burglary at East Stonehouse, Plymouth Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish. Buried 12th April. Stole a piece of muslin, twelve shawls and three lengths of silk. See below.
Hoost Thomas 1802 9th April Passing forged £5 notes to Daniel Stockey at Plymouth Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish on the 12th April. "Friday last Thomas Hoost, William Blade, Robert Boost, and Jas, Hughes, for uttering forged banknotes; John Allen, for forgery; and William Smith, for robberies, whose convictions at the last Assizes appeared in this paper, were executed at the New Drop over the County Gaol, pursuant to their sentence.–They all behaved with penitence becoming their unhappy situation." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 15th 1802.
Hughes James 1802 9th April Passing £2 forged notes at Plymouth Heavitree - Buried at St Sidwell's parish. Buried 12th April. See above
Boost Robert 1802 9th April Passing forged bank notes See above
Blade William 1802 9th April Forging Bank of England bank notes See above
Allen John 1802 9th April Attempted to pass off a forged payment for prize money to Michael Nathan Prize money was paid to sailors from the proceeds of capturing enemy ships.
Hunt Henry 1804 6th April Stealing several horses near London Hunt took the horses to Uplyme.
"Friday last Henry Hunt, convicted at the last Assizes, for Horse stealing, was executed at the Drop over the county Gaol, pursuant to his sentence." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 12th 1804.
Hulee (Rogers) Betsy 1805 12th August Hulee, aged 32 was convicted of murdering her husband William Rogers, at Plymouth. "On Monday last Betsy Hulee was executed at the drop, over the county gaol, and her body was delivered to the surgeons for dissection, pursuant to her sentence. From the moment of her conviction, to that of being launched into eternity, she conducted herself with christian penitence becoming her unhappy situation." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - August 15th 1805.
Comer Simon 1805 April Convicted of forging a deed of gift (bequest in a will). He claimed a Mr Adams requested the document to be drawn up, for which he was paid half-a-crown. He did not know it was to be used for a fraudulent purpose. "Friday last Simon Comer, who was convicted at our last assizes for forging and uttering a deed of gift, purporting to be under the hand and seal of Richard Adams, with intent to defraud Samuel Willment and his son, was executed, pursuant to his sentence, on the new drop over the county gaol. He behaved with a resignation becoming his unhappy fat, but persisted to the last, that he was innocent of the crime for which he was sentenced to die." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 11th 1805.
He was a schoolmaster by profession, married with five children.
Hayes John 1805 August Ravishing an eleven year old child. "... and John Hayes, aged 39, convicted of ravishing Mary Shields, a child of eleven years of age, at Stoke Damerell, received sentence of death." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - August 15th 1805. The same paper noted "John Hayes is left for execution." He was not executed alongside Betsy Hulee - see above.
Lopes Vicentes 1806 4th August Murder of Ciriaco Peres at Millbay Prison – both were POWs His body was sent for dissection.
"... the following prisoners were capitally convicted and received sentence of death, viz. Vicentiz Lopez, a Spanish prisoner of war, for the wilful murder of Fernando Perez, a fellow prisoner; John Davis Rendle, for forging an endorsement on two bills of exchange for 97l. 6s; ... Lopez was executed pursuant to his sentence on Monday last, Rendle is for execution;" Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - August 7th 1806.
Rendle John Davis 1806 16th August Attempting to pass two forged bills of exchange at Plymouth Left a wife and two children. Not confirmed - see above.
Pain Benjamin 1808 April Attempting to pass a forged £50 Bill of Exchange. Of five condemned to death that April all were reprieved except Pain.
Tapp alias Godbear George 1808 16th August Bludgeoned to death with an old axe Robert Leach of Morchard Bishop. Tapp and Leach "... lived on terms of great intimacy." Tapp buried Leach's body in the garden. Tried and convicted on the 5th May 1808. "On Tuesday George Godbear was executed at the Devon Gaol Drop, pursuant to his sentence; the particulars of the horrid murder were given of the 5th May last; his behaviour since his confinement has been uniformly penitent: a few minutes before he was turned off, he caused two written papers to be thrown amongst the spectators, both to the same purport, on which he throws some reflections on the character of a female, to whom he attributes his untimely fate." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - August 18th 1808.
Cox Jane 1811 12th August Poisoned a baby, John Tremman, with arsenic under orders from Arthur Tucker, the child's father. "On Monday, Jane Cox was executed at Exeter, for the murder of her illegitimate child. She addressed the spectators in an audible manner: she repeated her former confession, with some further particulars respecting the means used by Tucker to prevail on her to commit the horrid deed, for which she acknowledged she ought to die; but lamented that the person who had instigated her to the commission of it was not also to suffer with her." The Examiner - August 18th 1811.
Williams James 1812 3rd April Highway robbery of Mr. E Locock, between Honiton and Yarcombe - the haul included a handkerchief, pair of gloves and two pieces of paper worth a penny. "Friday last James Williams, aged 24 years, was executed at the New Drop, in front of the County Gaol, pursuant to his sentence at the late Devon Assizes, for assaulting and robbing Mr. E. Locock on the highway, between Honiton and Yarcombe. His behaviour was penitent and becoming his unhappy situation." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 9th 1808.
Luscombe Thomas 1813 26th March Convicted of two murders one in 1812 and one in 1813 10,000 watched - his body went for dissection by Mr Robert Patch.
"At the Assizes for the county of Devon which commenced at the Castle of Exeter on Thursday se'nnight, - Thomas Luscombe, for the wilful murder of Sarah Ford, also (on his own confession) with the wilful murder of Margaret Huxtable, a child ten years old, was found guilty and sentenced to be executed on the New Drop on Friday last, and his body delivered to the surgeons for dissection." Salisbury and Winchester Journal - 29th March 1813.
Vincent William 1815 15th August Murder of Thomas Wills, Customs Officer while smuggling from Guernsey in 1805 He attempted to cut his own throat the night before the execution and was taken to the gallows on a bed.
Summers Samuel 1815 7th April Attempted poisoning of Richard Denning at Ottery St Mary "Samuel Summers, was executed at Exeter, for administering poison to his master, Mr. R Denning, of Ottery. Since his condemnation, he has freely confessed his attempt to commit the crime, and says that he was urged to do it by two people, who told him that he would obtain his freedom, and they also would be benefitted by it. He was only 19 years of age." The Examiner - April 16th 1815.
Norton Samuel 1815 7th April Murder of Mrs Metters of Whitchurch "At Devon Assizes, Samuel Norton was found guilty o f the murder of his mistress, near Dartmouth, and executed at Exeter on Thursday." The Bury and Norwich Post - April 15th 1815.
Chisholm John Josiah 1815 4th August Attempting to escape while awaiting trial for passing a counterfeit bill. "Friday last John Josiah Chisholm was executed on the Drop, in front of the Devon County Gaol, pursuant to his sentence at our late Assizes, for forging a Navy Bill.–He ascended the platform with much firmness, joined fervantly in prayers with the Chaplain, and met his fate with becoming fortitude and resignation." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - August 10th 1815.
Finson Robert 1817 24th March Murdering his wife during a violent quarrel "The prisoner was much affected during the whole of the trial, and appeared dreadfully agitated when the awful sentence of death was passing on him."
"The above unfortunate wretch was executed on Monday at noon, on the Drop, in front of the Devon county gaol, pursuant to his sentence, in sight of an immense concourse of spectators. He appeared to be perfectly resigned, and to die penitent.–The body after hanging the usual time, was conveyed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital for dissection." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - March 27th 1817.
Holmyard Samuel 1818 13th November Using a forged Exeter City Bank, one pound note He was the last County of Exeter prisoner from the South Gate prison to be taken to the Magdalen Drop for execution. This was also the first City of Exeter execution for 32 year.
"Friday last, Samuel Holmyard was executed on the Magdalen-road, pursuant to his sentence at our late Quarter Sessions, for a forgery on the City Bank. He appeared truly penitent, and met his fate with calmness and fortitude. William Davis, his associate, and who was to have suffered with him, received a respite on Wednesday evening last." Trewmans Exeter Flying Post November 19th 1818
See the Exeter Banks article for more.
Green John 1818 30th March Murdered his lover, Rebecca Smith by cutting her throat "On Monday, John Green, a porter, employed to carry mail bags from Plymouth Dock to Torpoint was executed at Exeter, for the murder of Rebecca Smith. He had cohabited with her; but she returned to her husband; finding he would prevail on her to leave her husband again, and live with him in adultery, he murdered her with a knife, which he had provided himself with. He was 42 years of age, and died almost in despair of mercy, as to the future state of his soul." Hampshire Telegraph and Sussex Chronicle - March 30th, 1818
Prinn John 1818 April Committing homosexual acts. " John Prinn was fully convicted of having committed an unnatural crime at Dartmouth in July. The Judge intimated to him that the law must take its course for the sake of society, and that there was not the least hope for him in this world." Salisbury and Winchester Journal - March 23rd, 1818
"John Prinn, convicted at the late Exeter assizes of a horrid crime, was executed on Friday last. " Salisbury and Winchester Journal - April 6th, 1818
Woodman Mary 1819 22nd April Poisoning her husband with arsenic Hanged at Devon County Gaol
Northcott John 1819 2nd April Stealing four oxen at Colebrook "Samuel Hallings, John Northcott, and John Evans condemned to death at our late Assizes, suffered the awful sentence of the law on the Drop, in front of the Devon County Gaol, on Friday last.–They appeared duly penitent, and met their fate with becoming resignation.
William Woodward, of this city, aged 27, who was present at the above execution, was so shocked at the sight, when the men were turned off, that he complained of a sudden pain at his heart, went immediately home, and died early on the following morning." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 8th 1819.
Hallings Samuel 1819 2nd April Attempted murder of his mother with arsenic See Northcott above.
"S. Hallings, convicted at the last Devon Assizes of administering poison to his mother." The Lancaster Gazette and General Advertiser - April 10th 1819
Atkins Joseph 1819 2rd April Bestiality Hanged at Devon County Gaol – he refused to give the signal to the hangman to proceed, delaying the execution.
Cribb James 1820 18th August Passing four forged £10 bank notes. He was part of a gang of forgers operating around Bovey Tracey, Chudleigh and Hennock. Hanged at Devon County Gaol. Extract from the Flying Post
Musgrove Thomas 1820 March Stealing a sheep at Uffculme Retired soldier who had served for fourteen years. The Flying Post confirmed the sentence but not the execution.
Bowden James 1821 6th April Burglary at Chudleigh and stole £140 of cash and notes "EXECUTION.–On Friday last James and William Bowden, brothers, aged 19 and 21, convicted of burglary and robbery, and John Bagwell, for the robbery on the highway, were executed (pursuant to their sentence at our Late Assizes,) in front of the Devon County Gaol. The latter, being a Catholic, was attended by a Priest of the persuasion. They all confessed their guilt, and appeared to die penitently. An immense concourse of spectators were assembled to witness the awful sight." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 12th 1821.
Bowden William 1821 6th April Burglary at Chudleigh and stole £140 of cash and notes See Bowden above.
Bagwell John 1821 6th April Footpad robbery on the highway between Knackershole and Plymouth See Bowden above - Bagwell he committed a second offence that night but was acquitted.
Chappell Philip 1822 25th March Mary Stevens, pregnant by Chappell was beaten, drowned and dumped in a mill stream at Torrington Hanged at Devon County Gaol. Extract from the Flying Post
Perry John 1822 8th April Arson of his tenants cottage for insurance – witnesses stated he used a candle to fire the cottage. "John Perry, aged 27, convicted at our last assizes, of wilfully setting fire to his cottage, occupied by a man named Potter, at Taleford, in the parish of Ottery St. Mary, executed on the drop in front of the County Gaol... two dissenting ministers were also present, one of whom, while the rope was adjusting, called on the crowd to take example from the unfortunate man, who was to suffer; adding, that he had fully confessed his guilt, and died in the hope of salvation." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 10th 1822.
Radford John 1823 28th July Pushed his pregnant girfriend into a marsh where she drowned. He gave the signal three times before the hang man was ready and exclaimed that he was 'very happy, very happy'.
Bolt John 1823 4th April Attempted murder of Jane Jusland with a pistol at Lifton Park Hanged at Devon County Gaol. Extract from the Flying Post
Baker Richard 1825 August Child molestation "A man named Richard Baker, aged 42, who had been convicted of violating the person of Emma Lavillin, at Plymouth (a child under 10 years of age), is the only prisoner left for execution, all the others sentenced for Death having been respited before the Judges left Exeter." Salisbury and Winchester Journal - August 8th, 1825
Orchard John 1827 2nd April Mortgage forgery on his father's property Orchard was the last forger in Devon to be executed.
"John Orchard was executed at Exeter in Monday, for forgery. He had borne for many years a most irreproachable character, and every exertion was made to mitigate his sentence." The Bury and Norwich Post - April 25th 1827.
He left a widow and four children in St Thomas, for which an advert was placed to raise subscriptions for their relief.
Friend Thomas 1827 2nd April Murdered Sarah and her son Edward Glass at Beaworthy parish Hanged at Devon County Gaol
Champion
alias Brewer		 George 1827 24th August Burglary of a Tiverton shop owned by Mr Tucker. He stole 3 gold watches, eighty gold rings thirty one brooches, twelve silver spoons and a diamond pin. He was 22 years of age.
"On seeing the executioner, Champion exclaimed, "This is a melancholy death for two such young men as we..." (see below)
James John 1827 24th August Burglary of a Tiverton shop owned by Mr Tucker. See Champion above. He was 21 years of age.
(from above) "... To which his fellow sufferer replied, "Oh! yes, it is, George." When the ropes were adjusted around their necks, they bowed to the mob. Champion remarked to a Sheriff's officer near him, that he hoped his poor father was not in the crowd beneath, to witness his disgraceful death, and then exclaimed, "There is a poor man fainted away!" evidently supposing the person to be his father. When the executioner was about to draw the caps over their faces, the young men kissed each other, and shook hands; they remained hand in hand when the bolt was withdrawn, and the drop fell. Champion was much convulsed, and James was a considerable time dying." The Examiner - September 2nd 1827.
Quantance Richard 1829 17th August Assisted Kezia Westcombe (below) his lover to murder her husband Samuel Westcombe by putting arsenic in his broth. He said on the gallows to Westcombe 'I hope we shall meet again'.
"The crowd assembled to witness the execution was computed at from ten to fifteen thousand persons. As the prisoners caught a view of the scaffold, they became extremely agitated.– (see below) Quantance was more composed and stood with more firmness than was expected from his previous weak and subdued appearance. Soon after twelve the drop fell, and closed their eyes upon the world for ever." Bury and Norwich Post - August 26th 1829.
Westcombe Kezia 1829 17th August Murdered, with her lover Richard Quantance (above), her husband Samuel Westcombe by putting arsenic in his broth. She said on the gallows to Quantance her lover they would meet 'In Heaven', and she requested that she might be allowed to die with her shoes off.
( from above) – "The female was unable to ascend the steps to the drop without assistance of two of the attendants, and it was found necessary to seat her in a chair while the rope was being placed round her neck. Indeed, from the time she reached the scaffold she exhibited a total insensibility to everything near her." Bury and Norwich Post - August 26th 1829.
Hilston Thomas 1829 3rd April Attempted murder of James Jeffrey on the road between Plympton and Buckfastleigh Hilston said on the scaffold 'My conscience is clear'. He was a Cornishman of 58 years.
"Helston said he had been a sabbath-breaker, a drunkard, and addicted to many vices for which he was very sorry, and hoped his life thus unjustly taken would be accepted as an atonement, but had never lifted his hand against his fellow creatures with intention to do him harm, and both again repeated that they forgave all, and died in peace with mankind. they now audibly joined the Minister in the remaining service, and at 10 minutes to 1 o'clock were launched into eternity, their struggles being apparently of short duration." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 9th 1829.
Trethew William 1829 3rd April Attempted murder of James Jeffrey on the road between Plympton and Buckfastleigh Trethew declared his innocence on the scaffold.
"Trethew was understood to be a native of Devonport, 46 years of age, and unmariied." Trewman's Exeter Flying Post - April 9th 1829.
Cudmore George 1830 25th March Poisoning his wife Grace – his lover Sarah Dunn was found not guilty. His skin was removed and twenty years later it was used to bind a copy of the Works of John Milton. Extract from the Flying Post
Cornish William Bissett 1830 20th August Bestiality - accused by Margaret McGennis who claimed to have been a witness. The offence took place at Newton Abbot.
He was last man to be hanged in Devon for a crime other than murder. Extract from the Flying Post
Kellaway Mary 1832 26th March She was twenty eight when she gave birth to an illegitimate child in a shared room in Devonport which she murdered hours after its birth. On the gallows she said 'There is no one shedding a tear for me'.
"Mary Kellaway was executed at Exeter a day or two since for a similar offence–The law surely recognises no distinction in either country." Royal Cornwall Gazette - April 7th 1832. Note - the extract alludes to a case in Ireland of a similar crime, in which the defendant's sentence of death was repealed and she was sentenced to transportation.
Oliver Thomas 1836 16th July Murder of Mr May on the road at Jacob's Well near Moretonhampstead A celebrated case where his so called accomplice Edmund Galley was reprieved after a campaign by Thomas Latimer.
Landick James 1849 9th April Murder of Mrs Grace Holman Watched by forty thousand.
Sparkes George 1853 1st April Murder of William Blackmore "This wretched man, who was found guilty of the murder of Mr. Blackmore at the last assizes held at Exeter, was executed on Friday last, shortly after twelve o'clock at noon. The murderer was a young man of six-and-twenty, of a robust frame, and in stature rather above the middle size. There could not be less than from 8000 to 9000 persons present to witness the wretched spectacle, a vast number of whom were women and children." The Standard - April 4th 1853.
Harvey Llewellyn Garrett Talmage 1854 4th August Violated and murdered Mary Richards at Taddiport, inflicting 13 wounds to her head. She died after being found the next day in a clump of fir trees. He was the illegitimate son of an Oxfordshire tradesman.
"Harvey, who was convicted of the wilful murder of Mary Richards at Langtree, near Torrington, in the north of Devon, at the last assizes held at Exeter, was executed yesterday over the entrance door of the county gaol in that city. Hundreds of people from country villages in the neighbourhood and distant towns came into the city to see him die the death of a malefactor." Daily News - August 5th 1854.
Hackett Robert 1861 30th March Murdered Sergeant Henry Jones Hanged at Devon County Gaol, over the porter's lodge. Extract from the Newcastle Courant
Ashford Mary Anne 1866 28th March Murdered her husband, William Ashford with poison. Last public execution of a woman at the County Gaol in front of 20,000. She is said to have "writhed and moaned horribly" in the dock when sentenced, and tried to strangle herself in her cell.
"Executions of women have been very rare of late years... ...Mary Ann Ashford who poisoned her husband, at Honiton Clyst, in order that she might indulge a guilty passion for one of his workmen, has been made an exception to the rule. She was executed at Exeter yesterday. She was so completely prostrated that she had to be assisted to the scaffold and held over the drop." The Sheffield and Rotherham Independent - March 29th 1866.
Grant John 1866 15th August Murdered Philip Boobier Last public execution at the County Gaol.
"James Grant, who had been a soldier, was executed at Exeter yesterday morning for the murder of a boy named Boobier. Since his conviction the culprit has been visited by the Roman Catholic priest, the Rev. Mr. Johnston, and also by the Rev. Dr. Vaughan, Roman Catholic Bishop of Plymouth, to whom, it is understood, he made a full confession, but the particulars are not made public. Calcraft officiated and about 6,000 persons were present at the execution" The Pall Mall Gazette - August 16th 1866.
Taylor William 1869 11th October Murder of Cpl. Arthur Skullen by shooting him; he was being punished for drunkeness. Taylor was a 23 year old soldier of the 57th Regiment. Hanged at Devon County Gaol
"... He yesterday met his fate with great firmness. The execution, in accordance with the new Act, was strictly private, the only persons present, besides the officials, being the representatives of the press. At the moment the drop fell the people outside the prison knew by the hoisting of the black flag that Taylor's last moment had come. After a few struggles the unfortunate man ceased to live." The Dundee Courier and Argus - October 12th 1869.
Macdonald Thomas 1874 10th August Murdered Bridget Walsh, with whom he was cohabiting. Hanged by John Calcraft at Devon County Gaol.
"Macdonald, the Stonehouse murderer, will be executed at Exeter on the 10th proximo. He seems resigned to his fate, and a Roman Catholic priest is constantly in attendance on him." Daily News - July 31st 1874.
Hussel William 1877 19th November While drunk, stabbed his wife three times with a pig-knife while she breastfed her baby. "... was executed within Exeter gaol by Marwood. The convict quarrelled with his wife and ran a knife into her several times, and she died instantly. He had acknowledged the justice of the sentence, and, though crying bitterly, walked firmly to the scaffold." The Pall Mall Gazette - November 19th 1877.
Tooke Annie 1879 11th August Murdered 6 month old Reginald Hyde The torso of the child was found in the leat of Powhay Mill by Edward Stookes. The body parts were taken to the Alexandra Inn to be examined by a surgeon. Hanged at Devon County Gaol. Extract from two newspapers
Williams William 1893 28th March Shot Emma Dodge and Frederick Row at Tavistock. Hanged at Devon County Gaol.
"William Williams, a youth nineteen years of age, was executed at Exeter yesterday, for the murder of EMMA DOIDGE and FREDERICK ROW, at Tavistock. The culprit had kept company with Miss DOIDGE, but the intimacy was broken off. On Sunday, November 13, WILLIAMS, after threatening the young woman on leaving church, pounced upon the couple and fatally shot both of them, and then attenpted suicide." Birmingham Daily Post, March 29th 1893.
Elliot Edmund 1909 30th March Murdered Clara Jane Hannaford, ex girlfirend Hanged at Exeter prison
Cunliffe George 1913 25th February Murdered Kate (Kitty) Butler, his girlfriend Hanged at Exeter prison
Honeyands James 1914 12th March Murdered Amelia Bradfield Hanged at Exeter prison
Brooks Frederick 1916 12th December Murdered Alice Clara Gregory Hanged at Exeter prison
Saunders Cyril 1920 30th November Murdered his cousin, Dorothy May Saunders Hanged at Exeter prison
Black Edward Ernest 1922 24th March Murdered his wife Annie Black Hanged at Exeter prison
Maynard William 1928 27th July Murdered Richard Francis Roadley Hanged at Exeter prison
Bryant Charlotte 1936 15th July Poisoning husband with arsenic Hanged by Tom Pierrepoint at Exeter Prison. A large, anti-capital punishment vigil was held outside the prison. It is said that Bryant's black hair turned white while awaiting execution. Ministered by Father Barney. More on Charlotte Bryant
Davis Philip 1937 27th July Murder of Wilhelmina Davis (wife), and Monica Rowe (niece) Hanged at Exeter prison
Moss Ernest John 1937 7th December Murder of Kitty Bennett, girlfriend Hanged at Exeter prison
Trenoweth Gordon 1943 6th April Murdered Albert Bateman Last man to be hanged at Exeter prison

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