The Hanging Tower, Caernarfon: A Grim Sentinel of Justice

A Tower of Justice and Punishment

The Hanging Tower is a distinctive feature of Caernarfon’s medieval town walls, situated just north of the Anglesey Arms. Its grim name derives from its use as an execution site, where convicts were hanged as part of the town’s judicial process. This tower was integrated into the town’s defensive walls and stood adjacent to the former Caernarfon jail, forming a somber complex dedicated to law enforcement and punishment.

Historic Executions and Notorious Cases

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Hanging Tower witnessed several notable executions. In 1853, John Roberts was executed here for murder, following a sensational confession involving a paid killing. Later, Thomas Jones, a hawker convicted of murdering his mistress, was also hanged at the tower. The last execution took place in 1910 when William Murphy, an ex-soldier who killed his mistress, was put to death by Henry Albert Pierrepoint, the chief executioner of the time. Pierrepoint’s career was infamous, and he executed over 100 people before retiring after a scandalous incident.

Architectural and Cultural Context

The tower forms part of Caernarfon’s medieval fortifications, which include the famous Caernarfon Castle and surrounding town walls built under King Edward I. While the castle symbolized royal power and conquest, the Hanging Tower served a more somber civic function. Its location next to the jail and its role in executions reflect the medieval and Victorian era justice system, where public and private punishments were part of maintaining order.

Legends and Hauntings

The Hanging Tower is reputedly haunted by the spirits of those executed within its walls, especially William Murphy. Local folklore and ghost stories add a layer of eerie mystique to the site, attracting visitors intrigued by its dark past. These tales contribute to the tower’s unique atmosphere, blending history with legend.

Preservation and Visitor Experience

Today, the Hanging Tower stands as a preserved historic site, offering visitors a direct connection to Caernarfon’s judicial and architectural heritage. Although not as grand as the nearby castle, the tower’s grim history and well-preserved structure provide a compelling glimpse into the darker side of medieval and Victorian justice. Its proximity to other historic landmarks makes it a meaningful stop for those exploring Caernarfon’s rich past.

Reflection on Justice and History

The Hanging Tower embodies the harsh realities of historical justice systems, where executions were a public and legal spectacle. Its story highlights changes in societal attitudes towards punishment and law enforcement over centuries. Visiting the tower invites reflection on the evolution of justice and the human stories behind the stone walls.