Jane Wenham (alleged witch)

Jane Wenham (c. 1668 – 1730) was an English woman accused of witchcraft in 1712 in Walkern, Hertfordshire. This case is notable as one of the last formal witch trials in England, occurring well after the peak of witch hunts in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Wenham, a widow, was accused by a local farmer, John Chapman, of bewitching his cattle and making him ill. The accusations stemmed from a dispute over some straw. Other villagers also presented evidence against her, including claims of her having been seen flying and performing other acts associated with witchcraft.

Despite a generally skeptical atmosphere surrounding witchcraft accusations by this time, local magistrate Sir Henry Chauncy initially dismissed the charges. However, under pressure from local clergy and other influential figures, he reluctantly agreed to investigate. Wenham was subjected to various tests, including being forced to recite the Lord's Prayer (which she did, though some claimed she stumbled) and being examined for "witch's marks." She was ultimately indicted and brought to trial at Hertford Assizes in March 1712.

The trial was presided over by Sir John Powell, who, while upholding the law, expressed skepticism about the evidence presented against Wenham. He directed the jury to acquit her if they believed she was innocent, but if they believed her guilty, he encouraged them to show mercy. The jury found her guilty, and she was sentenced to death.

However, Powell intervened and secured a royal pardon for Wenham from Queen Anne. She was spared execution and instead relocated to live on a farm owned by Colonel Plummer, where she lived out the rest of her days. Her case became a significant event in the decline of witch trials in England, highlighting the increasing skepticism and changing attitudes toward witchcraft accusations. The case of Jane Wenham serves as a reminder of the dangers of superstition and the importance of due process in legal proceedings.