The project to exonerate those accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts.
We advocate for the recognition of all of Massachusetts’ witch trial victims–those prosecuted in Salem and those prosecuted elsewhere. According to the available research, the colonies of Massachusetts Bay and Plymouth took action against at least 200 different individuals.
Past legislation has focused on those convicted during the Salem Witch-Hunt of 1692 and 1693 and has not included 8 individuals convicted in Boston at other times. In addition, those arrested but not indicted have yet to be acknowledged, and no prior act or resolution has included an apology.
On January 15, 2025, Rep. Steven Owens (Cambridge and Watertown) proposed HD 3054, An Act Exonerating Certain Individuals Accused of Witchcraft in Colonial Massachusetts. This legislation now titled Bill H. 1927 will clear the names of 8 individuals convicted of witchcraft in Boston and all others accused of witchcraft in Massachusetts.