Witch-Hunt: Correcting History's Injustices

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I am deeply intrigued by the hidden narratives within the history of Massachusetts, I find the tales of accused witches, their trials, and the pursuit of justice to be exceptionally compelling. In 1648, a midwife named Margaret Jones became the first person executed for witchcraft in Massachusetts, a somber precursor to the infamous Salem witch trials that would follow decades later.

Today, a group known as the Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project, led by Josh Hutchinson, embarks on a mission to clear the names of all individuals accused of witchcraft, regardless of their ultimate fate, whether it was a hangman's noose or an escape from such a fate. Their undertaking seeks to shed light on the shadowy legacy of witch trials that spanned from 1638 to 1693, impacting hundreds of lives.

While the Salem witch trials often dominate the historical narrative, this group directs attention towards the overlooked stories of those accused in Boston, such as Ann Hibbins and Goodwife Ann Glover, who met tragic ends. The project is a poignant endeavor to correct past injustices, driven by Hutchinson's personal connection as his own ancestors include both accusers and victims.

The project's reach extends beyond Massachusetts, with Connecticut already witnessing a similar initiative. Lawmakers voted to absolve those convicted of witchcraft and offer apologies for the miscarriage of justice. These endeavors serve as a reminder that history is not stagnant but an evolving narrative, subject to ongoing correction of past wrongs.

In Boston, where these historical events unfolded, physical reminders of the witch trial history are scarce. The lone plaque dedicated to Goody Glover stands as a testament to her unjust fate as "the first Catholic martyr in Massachusetts." It is a poignant symbol of the city's complex history.

In 1692, Judge Samuel Sewall, a participant in the Salem witch trials, issued a public confession, taking responsibility for the blame and shame of those trials and seeking forgiveness. Massachusetts has taken further steps, including passing bills to clear the names of those convicted in Salem.

Witch hunts are not confined to Massachusetts alone. Pownal, Vermont, recently dedicated a marker recognizing the survivor of Vermont's only recorded witch trial, Widow Krieger. The peculiar twist in her tale, where accused witches were believed to float but Widow Krieger sank and was saved, is a remarkable addition to the chronicles of witch hunts.

These endeavors to rectify historical injustices, unearth untold stories, and shift the narrative surrounding witch hunts serve as a testament to the resilience of justice, shedding light on a dark chapter of history.


Witch-Hunt: Correcting History's Injustices

by: Drakovi Bloodrose  


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If you are interested in learning more about the Massachusetts Witch-Hunt Justice Project:

https://massachusettswitchtrials.org/

Going beyond Salem to tell the history of all Massachusetts witch trials and seek exoneration for all victims.

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