The Amateur Historian Volume 3 Number 6 Winter 1957-8

By Pettifer, Ernest W.

pp 231-236

Discussion of early forms of justice, in the pre-Conquest and early medieval periods. The author notes that there is little detailed documentary evidence, but suggests that where these processes took place may be indicated by place-names (including the names of hundreds). The open-air hundred courts of the Saxon period organised the military security of a community by ensuring that each member maintained arms. County courts may also have been held in the open air, thus ensuring that all members of the community witnessed the law being applied. The author refers to various implements of punishment, including stocks, whipping posts, gallows and gibbets and ducking stools.

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By Davidson, Thomas

pp 237-248

Examination of the use of charms and amulets by farmers seeking to protect their animals from the widespread epidemics of the 17th and 18th centuries. These objects typically included charms, chants and prayers of both Christian and pagan origin; natural objects of rarity or deformity; manufactured objects which were held to possess special power; or charms which combine all of these characteristics. The article describes in detail how these charms were to be applied and is comprehensively illustrated.

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By Johnston, G.D.

pp 249-252

A glossary of legal terms and phrases, many of which are no longer in use, but which are commonly found in older legal documents and manuscripts. 

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By Johnson, W. Branch

pp 253-256

A review of 19th century county histories, with specific reference to those of Hertfordshire. This work includes some unusual detail, including some recollections of incidents and encounters with local people.

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By Tuffs, J. Elsden

p 264-266

Introduction to the basic techniques of note-taking, organising and storing notes, and arranging other materials and information gathered in the course of local history research.