Between 1564 and 1710 the Maiden was used to publicly behead over 150 criminals and political opponents of the crown.

Before 1564, beheading was usually done by axe or sword in Scotland, but this could be messy. An executioner would sometimes need several attempts before he was able to successfully sever head from body. Beheading machines were more efficient in this respect, but they also must have made these executions look more modern and awe-inspiring to the public attending these spectacles.