Take a step back in time and discover some fascinating stories with Shire Hall Historic Courthouse Museum.

Online talks are continuing with 'The Stories of Sylvester Wilkins and Harry Parker: How did punishment change in the 1800s' on Thursday (April 22).

Using two case studies of children tried at Shire Hall in 1833 and 1873 for the same crime, this talk explores how and why sentencing and punishment changed over that 40 years.

This talk will involve discussion on capital punishment. It costs £1.99 and begins at 7pm.

Find more information here.

This will be followed by 'Can this be impartial justice?: Martha Brown, capital punishment and women in the criminal justice system' on Thursday, May 6.

Elizabeth Martha Brown was the last woman to be publicly hanged in Dorset. Convicted at Shire Hall for the murder of her husband in July 1856, her case caused a sensation.

Martha, as she has become known, is probably best remembered as the inspiration for Thomas Hardy's Tess of the D'Urbervilles. As a young man, the author witnesses her execution at Dorchester Gaol, mesmerised by 'the figure turning slowly round on the rope'.

At the time, her case became part of a national debate on the validity of capital punishment and the treatment of women in the criminal justice system.

On this talk, Dr Rose Wallis, historian for Shire Hall, explores the broader legal and cultural significance of this case and its resonance today.

The talk costs £1.99 and will begin at 7pm.

Find more information here.

Shire Hall is also looking for stall holders for its Christmas market on December 11 and 12.

The market is back for a second year and will be showcasing Dorset's best local, artisan craftspeople and producers. Applications are now open for stall holders to attend.

The market will be free for visitors, with stall holders placed across all four flours of the museum.

Apply before April 31 for your chance to be a part of this event. Places are limited and will be selected to ensure a range of products.

Email [email protected] for an application form.

It costs £40 for a 2ft x 6ft trestle table and two chairs.

This is an indoor event and will adhere to all Covid guidelines.

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