In the mid-17th century, the town of Eyemouth in Berwick was a bustling hub where the rhythms of daily life were dictated by the sea and its attendant industries. It was here, in 1662, that Adam Robertson, a maltman by trade, found himself entangled in the web of accusations that characterized the Scottish witch trials. At the age of 50, Adam was an established figure within his community, possessing the middling socioeconomic status that afforded a degree of respect and stability. His role as a maltman, responsible for processing grains for brewing, was central to the local economy and social life, aligning him with the key industries of the time.
The records indicate that Adam's family was involved in his legal tribulations; notably, his adult son was bound to ensure Adam’s appearance at trial, with a substantial guarantee of 2000 merks. This requirement underscores the seriousness of the accusation and the potential repercussions for the Robertson family, both financially and socially. It was not uncommon for entire families to be caught up in the consequences of a single accusation, a reflection of the period’s harsh realities where the familial and community bonds could be tested by the fear and uncertainty surrounding witchcraft allegations.
In April of 1662, Adam Robertson stood accused in a trial designated as case number T/JO/830. The details of the trial itself remain sparse, a reminder of the fragmentary nature of historical records from this tumultuous period. Adam's story, like those of many accused, speaks to the broader cultural and social forces at play during the Scottish witch trials. The threat of witchcraft accusations loomed large over communities, disrupting lives and reshaping local dynamics, as the fear of the supernatural could swiftly turn neighbour against neighbour, and a respected tradesman into a figure of suspicion.