Gallows

[Rustamsher]

Is the word 'gallows' singular or plural'? Gallows is/was/has ... OR Gallows are/were/have ...

I read some sentences regarding this topic on the Net:

• For centuries, they exercised the power of life and death; a stone stands where the gallows were formerly erected, and indicates that here they exercised jur y regalia.
• They're building a gallows in the town square.

I'm confused. Any help would be appreciated :-)

Thanks.

[Alan]

Both possible according to the OED.