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The Grey Lady of Dorchester

Site of gibbet, Dorchester, Dorset Apparition Tudor

In the heart of Dorchester, a phantom figure has been spotted lurking around the site where a gibbet once stood. This ghostly apparition, known as the Grey Lady, is shrouded in mystery. Some believe she may be the spirit of a Tudor woman, while others think she could be the ghost of Martha Brown, the last woman to be hanged for murder in Dorset. Her presence is a poignant reminder of the town's rich history and the darker side of human nature.

The story of the Grey Lady is intertwined with the history of crime and punishment in Dorchester. During the Tudor period, the gibbet was a common sight in the town, used to display the bodies of those who had committed crimes. Martha Brown, a woman hanged for murder, is said to be one of the last to meet her fate in this way. The exact date of her execution is unknown, but it's believed to have taken place in the 18th century. Since then, reports of a ghostly figure have been circulating, leaving many to wonder if it's the spirit of Martha Brown or another woman altogether.

Historical Context

The gibbet was used in Dorchester during the Tudor period to display the bodies of those who had committed crimes.

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Historic Site
Activity Types
Visual
Witness Credibility
Multiple Witnesses
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
Unknown
Postcode Area
DT1

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