Jonet Miller, a resident of Auld Liston in the parish of Kirkliston, Linlithgow, found herself ensnared in the complex web of accusations typical of the witch trials that swept Scotland between the 16th and 18th centuries. In 1661, at the age of 51, Jonet stood accused of witchcraft, charged specifically with participating in a witches' meeting. The suspicions cast against her were far-reaching, connected to events both distant and recent at the time. Although the most recent charges were recorded in 1650, they hearkened back to alleged malevolent acts that dated as far back as 26 years prior, hinting at a long-standing undercurrent of suspicion within her community.
The formal trial took place in Edinburgh on August 20, 1661, a city distance away from Jonet's community. Here, the peculiarities of her trial's proceedings became evident. Despite being a woman of Kirkliston, she was tried alongside individuals from different localities, judged by an assize primarily comprised of Edinburgh residents rather than her peers from Linlithgow. This detachment from her community could have influenced the trial's dynamics, yet the verdict ultimately declared her not guilty. The historical record hints at an unusual post-trial situation, with orders for subsequent proceedings on September 20, 1661. However, whether these took place is left unresolved.
Jonet's ordeal included a recorded confession, made in the church in mid-August 1659, which was later retracted. The retraction suggests she may have made her confession under duress or coercion, a situation not uncommon in the charged atmosphere of witchcraft accusations. Moreover, her name appeared in the testimonies of numerous others accused or implicated in witchcraft, including Marion Craufurd and several others, each labeling her as a "Known Witch." Additionally, records allege property damage to a dairy, raising the possibility of economic motives behind some of the accusations. Despite being exonerated at her trial, Jonet Miller's story remains a stark reminder of the pervasive climate of suspicion and fear that characterized the witch hunts of early modern Scotland.