Janet McGown, a widow residing in Borgue, Kirkcudbright, found herself in a harrowing position in the spring of 1659, when she was accused of witchcraft. At the age of 37, Janet had already faced significant personal and societal challenges. Notably, her reputation had been under scrutiny for over a decade. While some accounts painted her as a "pyker and a thief," her status in society appeared more complicated, as she maintained a servant in her household, suggesting a level of affluence not commonly associated with such accusations. Nevertheless, with the weighty accusation of witchcraft upon her, Janet was to face trial in Dumfries, a common venue for those from her region.
The trial, which followed shortly after the summons of witnesses on March 31, 1659, was acutely emblematic of the period's fervent witchcraft pursuits. Janet pled not guilty. Despite her plea, the court found her guilty on April 2, 1659. The records are silent on the specifics of the allegations, though it was noted that property damage involving ale was among the claims, perhaps indicative of the volatile and interpersonal nature of the accusations during this era. Her trial ran its prescribed course, culminating in a sentence of execution through strangling, followed by burning.
Janet's case is cited in conjunction with others, having been mentioned in the trial of Jonet Miller, which reflects the intertwining narratives and communal tensions of the time. The connection between trials often underscores how fear and distrust permeated communities, leading to the unfortunate demise of individuals like Janet McGown. Her trial and execution serve as a poignant reminder of the societal dynamics and judicial practices surrounding witchcraft accusations in early modern Scotland.