Devon's Forgotten Witches

An examination of some obscure witchcraft cases from Devon’s past, using archive records and drawing modern comparisons

There are many famous witchcraft cases which are often written of and discussed: The Pendle Witches, Isabel Gowdie, the Salem Witch Trials and, in Devon, the Bideford Witches. But hidden away in the archives of libraries, museums and heritage centres are records of long-forgotten cases. Many of these are tragic, some are unusual (perhaps even inexplicable) but all are fascinating.

This book takes a deep dive through these archive records and brings to the surface a number of accusations of witchcraft in the county which have gone undiscussed for many years. The authors examine the cases in their historical context but also draw modern comparisons in an effort to explain what might have actually been happening to the people involved. Most importantly, they provide a new voice to those whom the historical record has forever silenced.