In the quiet parish of Eastwood, also known as Pollok, situated in Renfrew, the life of Marjory Craig reached its distressing conclusion in the year 1677. Historical records reveal that Marjory was once married but had separated from her husband. Her ties stretched across the Irish Sea, with a son residing in Ireland. Her life took a turbulent turn when whispers of witchcraft surrounded her, compelling her to flee from an accusation in Ireland, seeking refuge in her homeland of Scotland.
The shadow of suspicion, however, followed her to Renfrew. On the 14th of February, 1677, Marjory appeared before a court charged with maleficium, or the use of harmful magic, and attending witches' meetings, serious accusations that held dire consequences during that era. The trial, held in Renfrew, concluded with a guilty verdict. Her sentence was the ultimate punishment: death by strangulation, followed by being burnt, a common method intended to eradicate the perceived malevolent influence of witchcraft.
Marjory's execution was carried out swiftly on the 20th of February, 1677, at Gallow Green, a common execution site of the period. Her story, like many others from this tumultuous chapter in Scottish history, reflects the intense fears and societal pressures surrounding witchcraft in the 17th century. Her life and its tragic end remain inscribed in the annals of a time when allegations of witchery could strip individuals from their communities and ultimately, from life itself.