witchcraft investigation of Elspeth Thomsone (Q112914946)
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historical event recorded in 16th-18th century Scotland
- Case of Elspeth Thomsone
| Language | Label | Description | Also known as |
|---|---|---|---|
| English | witchcraft investigation of Elspeth Thomsone |
historical event recorded in 16th-18th century Scotland |
|
Statements
People were taking thatch from her roof, especially from above her door, to stop her harmful magic from working. Interestingly, she was described as earnestly offering apples to someone who refused (presumbably out of fear that they were tainted). Elspeth was suspected of becoming angry at this refusal and caused harm. She interferred with milk churning, and injured infants of people she quarrelled with. Neighbours testified that Janet Callen, executed for witchcraft in 1659, had left holes in Elspeth's hearth stone from when she lived there. (English)
Mostly quarrelling and threats. But, Janet Callen, executed for witchcraft in 1659, had lived with Elspeth and supposedly left holes in her hearth stone. This could have played a part in her developing witch reputation. Interesting reference to Thomsone being upset at not getting an invitation to a baptism (very much like Sleeping Beauty).A delerious man claimed to have seen the Devil as a rat that bit him and that he saw him coming towards him in his yard.She killed a baby after she wasn't invited to the baptism. Quarrels about work, borrowing things, and social slights. (English)