Bessie Stivenson
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Bessie Stivenson or Bessie Stevenson (c.1610? to 1659) was executed for witchcraft in Stirling, Scotland in the 17th century.
Bornc.1610?
Died1659
Stirling, Scotland
Causeof death
Capital punishment (strangled and burnt)Bessie Stivenson | |
|---|---|
| Born | c.1610? |
| Died | 1659 Stirling, Scotland |
Cause of death | Capital punishment (strangled and burnt) |
Biography
Bessie Stivenson was tried on witchcraft-related charges in March 1659, alongside two other Stirling women, Magdalene Blair and Isobel Bennet, for using charms to cure illness.[1][2][3] She was a widow and thought to be around 49 years old at the time of the trial.[4]
Stivenson confessed to healing with deeds at a local well (Wellgreen), but denied using words.[3] She was found guilty and sentenced to death. She was strangled and burnt.[1]