The Connecticut Witch Trials- Event this Sunday!

A few weeks ago the Connecticut Post featured an article where descendants of those executed for witchcraft in Connecticut asked Gov. Dannel P. Malloy to issue a proclamation clearing the names of the victims. This may have come as a surprise to many Connecticut residents. We are all familiar with Salem and the famous witch trials which occurred there in the last decade of the 17^th century. However, Connecticut experienced a long period of witchcraft “hysteria” beginning in 1647after witchcraft was officially declared a crime by the state. For the next 50 years, women and men were accused, persecuted, and in many case convicted and executed for witchcraft.

But how could so many people be so quick to believe in witchcraft? What were their reasons for accusing those who were convicted? This Sunday, October 21^st, Connecticut State Historian Walter Woodward will bring to life this fascinating part of Connecticut’s history. He will explain why so many believed in the black arts , and also how and why Connecticut eventually ended executions for witchcraft.

This event is sponsored by the Trumbull Historical Society and will be held in the community room at the main Trumbull Library at 2pm. The event has a suggested donation of $5 for non members, which contributes directly to maintaining of the Trumbull Historical Society. Guests will also be able to purchase books relating to Trumbull History at the event. We hope to see you there!