The beheading stone is thought to have been used for capital punishments in the 15th Century and was probably used in the executions of various important figures.
In 1425, Murdoch, Duke of Albany and former Regent of Scotland, two of his sons and his father-in-law, the Earl of Lennox were executed. King James I was taking revenge for Albany's 18 year abuse of power when the King was held captive in England.