Whittlesey and District Neighbourhood Watch

The Pound

pound

 

The pound, also known as the pinfold or poundstead, is an enclosed area used to hold stray animals in a village or town. In Whittlesey, the pound was an important feature of the community for many years.

It was a stone-built structure, with a small gate for access. The pound was used to impound any animals found wandering the streets, including cows, horses, and pigs. The impounded animals would be kept in the pound until their owners paid a fine for their release.

The pound was a vital part of the local community, as it helped to prevent damage to crops and property caused by wandering livestock. It was also a source of income for the town, as fines for releasing impounded animals provided revenue for the local council.