The Bargarran Witch Trial

Christian Shaw, daughter of the Laird of Bargarran, displayed signs of possession in 1696. Her accusations led to the trial and execution of seven people in one of Scotland’s last major witch persecutions.

The Affliction

Eleven-year-old Christian began experiencing fits, contortions, and trances. She vomited pins, hair, and other objects. She accused various local people of bewitching her and sending their spirits to torment her.

The Accusations

Christian named approximately 30 people as her tormentors. She described seeing their spirits attack her when no one else was present. Her accounts were detailed and consistent.

The Trial

Seven of the accused were convicted and executed in Paisley in 1697. They were strangled and burned. Christian’s testimony was central to the convictions, despite the impossibility of verifying her claims.

The Aftermath

Christian recovered after the executions. She went on to found the Bargarran Thread Company. The case later became controversial, with some believing Christian had fabricated her symptoms for attention or revenge.

Assessment

The Bargarran case demonstrates how possession accusations could be weaponized. Whether Christian was genuinely afflicted, mentally ill, or fraudulent, seven people died because of her testimony.