(Q112895595)

English

witchcraft investigation of Isobel Cockie

historical event recorded in 16th-18th century Scotland

  • Case of Isobel Cockie
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Statements

Accused of casting 'cantryps' between a victim's doors after which he took ill. Accused of having left a many coloured cloth at a neighbour's house. When she burnt it (fearing it was witchcraft) the fire cracked and they thought the house would fall. Said to one man 'I shall gar thee forthinkit that thow hev territ my howss, I being fra ham' - he then took ill. Met at twelve midnight. Gave a man a drink of herbs, butter and saifroun (saffron?), which he was to drink 3 times. Also wrapped a knotted green thread about his body and oxsters, then put it in the fire. Another thread was left round his waist and if it broke or not to put it in the fire. Told a woman to go to south running water to wash him. She was paid 20 shillings and half a firlot of meal for this. (English)
Numerous accusations, most about malefice after disputes, but also named by Janet Wischart and Helen Makkie. Was also getting paid for healing.Janet Wischart and Helen Makkie confessed that Cockie had been with them at meetings on Hallowe'en at the fish and meal markets and the market cross in Aberdeen. Cockie does not appear to have confessed to anything and appears to have denied the charges.Accused of causing a neighbour's milk to fail to churn. Accused of casting an illnes onto a neighbour after he and her husband fell out over the ownership of a house. Gave a man a drink with herbs, butter and saffron and a knotted green threadRuined milk products. Spoiled a mill. Caused a neighbour to be ruined and spoiled another's crops. (English)

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