On this day in 1659, a dreadful event took place on "Dumfries Whitesands

On this day in 1659, a dreadful event took place on "Dumfries Whitesands. Nine women, having been found guilty of witchcraft, were taken to what was known as the "ordinary place" of execution. There, they met a truly horrific end.

After being wirried (strangled) in front of a gathered crowd, their lifeless bodies were set ablaze and burnt at the stake.... Read story 

So what led to this? Through our research, we discovered that Janet McNaught, one of the accused, was seen at a witches' meeting - the witness apparently committed suicide. Back then, even everyday behaviours, such as sitting in a group by the fire, could be viewed as conspiratorial.

Another, Jean Thomson, was said to have a familiar in the form of a hare, who followed people after arguments...

For us, it is hard to believe such accusations led to the inhumanity meted out in Dumfries that day. Although we cannot change history, and recognise they were very different times with different belief systems to consider, we owe it those souls wronged to ensure their names are no longer tarred, with what seemed an indelible mark, of a witchcraft accusation, and to leave a lasting legacy of hope.

I first learned of the women's plight as a child when visiting the wonderful treasure trove of local history that is Dumfries Museum, visits that have inspired a deep fascination.

Down by the river, we've shared their story many times and it continues to be one of the most affecting and hard-hitting accounts on our tour. 

Please take a moment to remember them.

There is still some debate as to the exact location of the execution

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