TORTURE AT THE TOWER

The Lower Wakefield Tower houses an exhibition that delves into the methods of torture employed at the Tower of London during the 16th and 17th centuries. This period was marked by intense political and religious upheaval, leading to the use of torture as a means to extract confessions and information from prisoners. (hrp.org.uk)

One of the most notorious instruments was the rack, a large iron frame with three wooden rollers. Prisoners were bound to the rack, and the rollers were turned in opposite directions, stretching the body and dislocating joints. This method often led to permanent disabilities or death. (historic-uk.com)

Another device, the Scavenger's Daughter, operated on the principle of compression. It contorted the body into a kneeling position, causing excruciating pain and leading to internal injuries. The manacles, iron handcuffs, were used to suspend prisoners by their wrists, often resulting in nerve damage and lasting physical harm. (hrp.org.uk)

The Little Ease was a particularly cruel confinement cell located beneath the White Tower. Measuring just 1.2 meters on each side, it was too small for a person to stand, sit, or lie down, forcing the occupant into a crouched position that led to intense physical and psychological distress. (en.wikipedia.org)

These instruments and methods were employed to extract confessions, often under duress, leading to false admissions. The use of torture in the Tower declined in the mid-17th century, as its ineffectiveness and inhumanity became more apparent. (historic-uk.com)

Today, the exhibition in the Lower Wakefield Tower serves as a somber reminder of this dark chapter in history, offering visitors insight into the brutal practices once employed within these walls. (hrp.org.uk)