The trials of the Pendle Witches in 1612 are among the most famous witch trials in English history
More than 400 years ago, back in 1612, England under the rule of King James I was rife with religious persecution and superstition. And in Lancashire, the matter became extremely sinister.
Both families were headed by elderly widows - Elizabeth Southerns aka Old Demdike and Anne Whittle, known by the nickname of Old Chattox. They lived by begging and on their reputation as wise women who claimed to have the power to remove curses and to heal. But what would lead to August 1612 where 12 people were accused of witchcraft? The event that is said to have sparked the case happened on March 18 of that year, when one of Demdike's granddaughters Alizon Device was out begging.
Those set to go on trial were Elizabeth Southern , Elizabeth Device , Alison Device, James Device, Anne Whittle , Ann Redfearn, Jane Bulcock, John Bulcock, Alice Nutter, Alice Grey, and Katherine Hewitt . But the cold and dark dungeons would prove too much for Old Demdike, who was in her 80s, and she died before trial.
On day three of the Assize a total of 10 people were found guilty of witchcraft and sentenced to death by hanging. Margaret Pearson was not executed and instead sentenced to pilloried on four market days in Padiham, Clitheroe, Whalley, and Lancaster - before serving a year in prison. All of the Samlesbury Witches were acquitted, as was Alice Grey.
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