The Market Place was where people assembled for the market to sell and buy goods, for proclamations such as the death of a monarch, and for gatherings to mark special occasions. It was also for watching public whippings, seeing people in the stocks, and for hiring labour. After the metal supports were installed around the cross, young men would often climb up to get a better view at events. The hunt often assembled here before setting off.
1752 Higham Ferrers This is to give notice that the fair at Higham Ferrers in Co. Northants called Michaelmas Fair for Hiring Servants, buying & selling Horses, Cows, Hogs, which used to be held on 29th of September will this year be held on the 10th day of October according to the NEW Calendar & will be so continued for the future. From the “Mercury” Sep. 18 N.S. (News Style) 1752
