The Knee Crusher
A popular device for crushing and breaking joints, particularly those of the knee and elbow. This device was a particular favourite of Inquisition torturers -…
Museums
The Spanish Donkey
This version looks like it’s been embellished, I doubt our mediaeval friends would not have gone to the trouble of adding the donkey head and…
Devonshire visits Finch Foundry
Whilst over at the back of Dartmoor in the lovely village of Sticklepath, I visited National Trust's Finch Foundry. Probably one of Devon's most fascinating…
The Intestine Crank and the Wooden Cage
It’s amazing when you think about it, how really cruel we were to one another in times gone by. The level of invention and lust…
Marvellous Museums
An endless source of fascination for those interested in history, are our local museums. Devon has rich history and an excellent way to access this…
Open Treasure at Durham Cathedral
There's much to explore in our fine country, and now the pound's down to 1.17 euros, the opportunity to spend patriotically whilst furthering our knowledge…
Devon Rural Archive
The Devon Rural Archive is a unique local resource dedicated to promoting a greater understanding of Devon's domestic architecture and associated landscapes. From purpose built…
The Cookworthy Museum at Kingsbridge
The chap that 'discovered' China clay in Cornwall, William Cookworthy, is dedicated at this lovely museum in Kingsbridge. Run by a great bunch of people,…
Museums in South East Devon
A visual peek at both the Topsham and the Axe Valley Heritage Society museums. There's nothing nicer than spending the morning browsing museum artefacts, here's…
Kings of the Highway
There was a time when horse-drawn wagons were the only means of moving heavy goods at a local level, particularly on the farm. Lurking out…