In the annals of early 17th-century Scottish witch trials, the case of Elizabeth Bathgate stands out due to its extensive documentation and the high-profile individuals involved in the investigation. Elizabeth, a 57-year-old woman hailing from Eyemouth, Berwick, found herself accused of witchcraft in June 1634. Living a life of middling economic status, she was married to a maltman who also served Mr. George Auchthertown (alternatively known as Ochterlony). Notably, her own husband's testimony was used against her, adding a layer of personal betrayal to the ordeal. Elizabeth had garnered a reputation spanning over three decades, long before her arraignment, as her name weaved through the whispers and accusations of the time.
The trial was held in Edinburgh, where Elizabeth faced accusations most prominently revolving around attending a witches' meeting—an all-too-common charge that fueled the fear and superstition of the era. The proceedings were unusually meticulous, marked by an adherence to rules of evidence that deviated from the norm of witch trials, often characterized by scant regard for procedural fairness. The trial was subjected to multiple continuances, initially delayed due to inclement weather which hindered the arrival of witnesses and the assize, and further postponed because the defense had not been provided with the dittay, or formal charge. Ultimately, the court found Elizabeth not guilty, a rare outcome that speaks to the strenuous advocacy she must have received and perhaps the scrutiny applied by those overseeing the trial.
Despite her acquittal, Elizabeth Bathgate's name lingered in connection with other accused witches, often mentioned alongside notorious figures such as Elspeth Wilson and Alison Wilson. Her involvement—or perceived involvement—with these individuals painted a broader tapestry of suspicion and community anxiety. Accusations also included the alleged use of malefice to cause damage to local property, including a mill and boats, further illustrating the complicated interplay between personal standing and supernatural fears that enshrouded the Scottish witch trials. Through the complex web of testimonials and associations, Elizabeth's case sheds light on the social and legal dynamics of a period laden with fear and superstition.