The top part of a pillory is a set of stocks, and the whole thing is sometimes mistaken for stocks. But the stocks are a more specific device. The stocks In their simplest form, these are a pair of stocks hinged together at one end and, at the other end, a hasp and staple for a padlock. The lower stock is fixed to the ground. The stocks confine the victim s ankles, who is obliged to sit in that position, either on the ground or on a wooden bench.
Some stocks have posts at each end, with runners in which the upper stock can slide up and down.
More elaborate variations include additional holes to confine the victim s hands. These can be in separate stocks above the foot stocks, or in the same stocks, either between or outside the feet. Stocks can usually accommodate two or more people. The pillory A set of stocks with three holes, one in the centre for the neck, and two each side for the wrists. Like the stocks, the upper stock can be either hinged or in side runners.