The Salem Witch Trials of 1692

The Beginning of a Problem

Dec 10, 1684

English law makes witchcraft a crime.

Doctor Griggs' Diagnostic

Feb 15, 1692

Doctor Griggs, who attended to the children, states that witchcraft may be the cause of the children's behavior

Ann Putnam Jr.

Mar 11, 1692

Ann Putnam Jr. begins to show signs of ailment by witchcraft. Then soon after Mercy Lewis, Mary Walcott, and Mary Warren show symptoms of affliction.

Bridget Bishop

Jun 2, 1692

Bridget Bishop is the first to be accused and sentenced to die by hanging.

Hangings Begin

Jul 19, 1692

Rebecca Nurse, Susannah Martin, Sarah Wildes, Sarah Good, and Elizabeth Howe are hanged at Gallows Hill.

The End is Near

Oct 8, 1692

Governor Phips orders that spectral evidence no longer be admitted in witch craft trials.

Superior Court

Nov 25, 1692

The Genral Court creates a Superior Court to try the remaining witches.

Freedom to Those accused

Jan 16, 1693

Forty-nine of the fifty-two surviving imprisoned victims were brought into court on witchcraft charges are released because their arrests were based on spectral evidence.

Asking for Forgivness

Jan 14, 1697

The General Court orders a day of fasting and soul searchingin honor of the lost souls of Salem. Samuel Sewall formally apologizes and shows his guilt and remorse for the families of those hanged.

Samuel Parris Gone For Good

Feb 11, 1697

Samuel Parris is kicked out of Salem Village and replaced by Joseph Green