Amsterdams City Archive has nearly 750 years of documentation, which includes an executioners bill from 1746. This bill highlights the severe punishments of the past, particularly on Dam Square.
In the past, punishment was very different. Physical punishments were common, and executions were public and drawn crowds eager to witness the brutality.
Scaffold
For the executions, a scaffold was built next to the city hall on Dam Square, where the executioner carried out punishments while the sentences were read aloud.
Torture
For severe crimes, suspects could be tortured to extract confessions, under the belief that distress would compel them to tell the truth.
Executioner’s Work
The executioner first carried out death penalties before moving on to lighter sentences. On December 17, 1746, eight punishments were carried out, including that of murderer Hendrina Wouters.
Breaking on the Wheel
The account shows how brutal the punishment was, detailing how Hendrina Wouters was executed with multiple torturous methods.
Daily Wage: 210 Guilders
The executioner earned 210 guilders that day, significantly more than a masons daily earning of just 1 to 1.5 guilders.
Treasure Hunting Online
The City Archive hosts numerous historical documents online. Visit the Amsterdam City Archive.
750 Amsterdam Stories
During the anniversary year, 750 stories from Amsterdams history are being collected and shared online. Subscribe to the newsletter for monthly updates. Visit amsterdam750.nl/verhalen.
Image above: Execution on Dam Square in 1778. (City Archive)