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Home Virginia Virginia Beach Region County Virginia Beach Historical Markers The Testing of Grace Sherwood

The Testing of Grace Sherwood

Independence Bl, Virginia Beach, VA , USA

Latitude & Longitude: 36° 51' 58.266", -76° 7' 55.7436"
  Virginia VA State Historical Marker
Virginia State
Historical Marker

 
The witchcraft case of Grace Sherwood is one of the best known in Virginia. She was accused of bewitching a neighbor's crop in 1698. Allegations grew over time until the Princess Anne County government and her accusers decided she would be tested by ducking, since water was considered pure and would not permit a witch to sink into its depths. Sherwood's accusers on 10 July 1706 tied her hands to her feet and dropped her into the Western Branch of the Lynnhaven River near what is now known as Witch Duck Point. Sherwood floated, a sign of guilt. She was imprisoned, but was eventually released. Sherwood lived the rest of her life quietly and died by 1740.

Last updated: 2/14/2015 15:17:00
 
   
 
 
The Testing of Grace Sherwood Historical Marker Location Map, Virginia Beach, Virginia Map