The story of a scene that horrified the onlookers and community of Dalkeith Midlothian.
On the 30th November 1826, a labour and highwayman by the name of William Thomson aged 26 (from Newbigging) robbed and fatally attacked George Dickson on his way home to Cousland from Dalkeith Market.
Mr Douglas was a well-known Lime Burner at D'Arcy in Mayfield. He was also a very close friend of Margaret Hawthorn
(Camp Meg)
Who often frequented the hospitable kitchen at D'Arcy. Smoking like a colliery chimney, and telling spine-chilling tales to the young ones who would hang around there.
William Thomson along with his brother James Thompson and cousin John Fram, confronted poor Mr Dickson whilst he was riding home on horseback near Langside Brae.
Thompson made the brutal attack that lead to Mr Douglas's death, while the co-offenders egged him on as the assault took place.
The men were caught and brought to Justice, William Thomson was charged with murder and the punishment was death. His accomplices managed to get off lightly and were granted mercy by the jury.
On Thursday the 1st of March 1827 at Dalkeith the noose was set up and people far and wide came to witness the awful event, some coming as early as 10 am to assure a good spot.
This kind of thing was unheard of in Dalkeith for centuries and was classed as a clean town. No one could ever remember a hanging taking place before this day.
Feelings of horror and disgust washed over the crowd as Thomson was led to the gallows at noon. Which was located just outside the Tollbooth, he walked up the scaffold to meet his fate.
Amongst the onlookers was Margaret Hawthorn (Camp Meg) who was carried away in great distress.
After hanging for half an hour, his body was cut down and delivered to his family after 4 pm for them to arrange his burial.
Below is all that remains of the spot Hangings took place
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