Pillory and whipping post, 1880s C016 / 4322
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Pillory and whipping post, 1880s C016 / 4322
Pillory and whipping post. 19th-century pillory (top) and whipping post (bottom) in Delaware, USA. The pillory is occupied by two African-American men. This punishment, similar to the stocks, was used for public humiliation for petty criminals. The pillory had been abolished in the UK by 1837 but remained in use in the USA in the state of Delaware until it was abolished in 1972. Photographed by Samuel M. Fox in around 1889
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Media ID 9204669
© LIBRARY OF CONGRESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1880s 1889 Albumen Print Black Captive Criminal Criminals Delaware Elevated Ladder North American Prisoner Punishment Social Society Stocks Trapped Abolished Captives Humiliating Pillory Public Humiliation Punishing Racial Whipping Post
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print from the 1880s showcases a pillory and whipping post, both instruments of public humiliation and punishment in Delaware, USA. The top portion features a 19th-century pillory, while the bottom displays a whipping post. Occupying the pillory are two African-American men, highlighting the racial dynamics at play during this era. Similar to stocks used in Europe, the pillory was employed for petty criminals as a means of shaming them before society. Interestingly, while it had been abolished in the UK by 1837, Delaware continued its use until as late as 1972. Photographed by Samuel M. Fox around 1889, this monochrome image provides us with an invaluable glimpse into history. It serves as a reminder of how society once treated individuals who fell afoul of the law and were subjected to such degrading forms of punishment. The ladder leading up to the elevated platform where these men are trapped adds another layer of symbolism to their captive status. This photograph not only captures an aspect of North American social history but also prompts reflection on issues related to race and justice during that time period. Preserved within Library of Congress' Marians Carson Collection and made available through Science Photo Library's archives, this albumen print stands as evidence that progress has been made since then but also serves as a stark reminder never to forget our past transgressions against humanity.
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