Sara Leonard, a resident of Borthwick near Edinburgh, found herself the subject of grave accusations amidst the turbulent witch trials of 17th-century Scotland. The historical records, scant yet telling, inform us that on October 11, 1649, Sara faced allegations of witchcraft at the age of 45. Uniquely documented by the presbytery, she was accused of having practiced witchcraft for an extensive period—allegedly over two decades. This note suggests a long-standing suspicion or rumour in the local community that had lingered around her for years.
Unfortunately, the records do not provide further details regarding Sara's fate following the accusations. It remains unclear whether she was apprehended and placed on trial, as there are no extant trial records that outline proceedings or verdict in her case. During this period, many accused were subject to intense scrutiny, and such an accusation could lead to dire consequences, irrespective of formal judicial determinations. Sara's story is representative of numerous others whose lives were overshadowed by suspicion and fear within their communities, a testament to the widespread anxiety about witchcraft in early modern Scotland.