Witchcraft Panic in Colonial Connecticut

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Join Richard Ross III for a presentation on the fascinating history of the Hartford Witch Panic between 1647 - 1663. Dr. Ross will discuss the events in England that impacted how the Connecticut Colony handled witchcraft allegations. What deep seated beliefs led to fear and panic amongst the colonists? What was the process to investigate these claims? Learn how the religious and political leaders of the time handled these charges … and what happened to the innocent people who were accused. Did they really form a pact with the Devil?

This lecture is co-sponsored with the Ancient Burying Ground, located in downtown Hartford. Additional Hartford Witch Trials Programs are offered in October. In Guided Tours, view this historic site where many of the colonial magistrates and ministers were laid to rest.

Ross is the author of Before Salem Witch Hunting in the CT River Valley, 1647-1663. This history examines the outbreak of witch hysteria in the Valley, focusing on accusations of demonic possession, apotropaic magic and the role of the clergy. Although the hysteria was eventually quelled by a progressive magistrate unwilling to try witches, accounts of the trials later influenced the Salem witch hunts.