The Bilboes
The Punishment
Bilboes (always plural) were iron restraints placed on a person's ankles or wrists. They were used to restrain prisoners and slaves, and for public punishment of men and women alike. Bilboes consisted of a pair of "U"-shaped iron bars with holes in the ends, through which a bolt was inserted. Bilboes were made in many sizes. Wrecked ships have been recovered with as many as 160 Bilboes on board (which would hold 320 people!!). The Crimes Violating the King's Law --traffic violations, vandalism, etc. |