Anna Pilmure's encounter with accusations of witchcraft began as early as 1649, when she was first proceeded against. However, details of this early action against her remain elusive, with the historical record not clarifying its outcome or the events leading to this accusation. Anna resided in Sammuelston, Haddington, and was married at the time of her later trials. The specter of witchcraft accusations lingered over her, intertwined with the societal tensions and suspicions of that period in Scotland's history.
In 1661, both Anna and her husband found themselves once again embroiled in the web of allegations that swept through their community. These accusations reemerged with vigor as part of a widespread denunciation initiated by James Welch in 1662. Welch, deemed too young to face trial, had nevertheless seen his confessions and accusations take root, compelling authorities to seriously pursue those he implicated. While Welch was imprisoned, the Pilmures were not immune to the fervor his claims inspired.
The subsequent trials of Anna, indicated by multiple records, underscore the continued scrutiny she faced. Although the specifics of each trial labeled as T/JO/1794, T/LA/1043, and T/LA/1316 are not detailed in the extant records, their existence emphasizes the repeated examinations she endured. Anna Pilmure's case reflects the broader witchcraft panic that affected many individuals in 17th century Scotland, highlighting a tumultuous period where accusation could lead to arduous legal proceedings and enduring suspicion from neighbors and authorities alike.