In the early 18th century, Helen Kirkpatrick found herself at the center of a disturbing chapter in Dumfries' history of witchcraft accusations. At the age of 40, Helen, a resident of the parish known as Kirkbride or Kilbride, was accused of engaging in witchcraft—a charge that carried profound social stigma and often severe consequences. The case against her, cataloged under the somewhat impersonal identification of C/JO/2887, emerged against a backdrop of slander and counter-slander, signaling a bitter feuding environment that could have easily fueled the accusations. Helen's daughter, Janet Hair, who served as a domestic worker, was also questioned during the proceedings, indicating that the inquiries extended beyond Helen herself, affecting her familial ties and social standing.
The legal process in Helen's case was notably unconventional. Although charged with witchcraft, no formal trial was documented beyond the interrogation of key individuals involved. This deviates from the norm typically seen in the witch trials of the time, which often included formal proceedings. Instead, the case was reviewed by the bailie of regality—a local authority figure—who resolved that Helen should be 'put out of bounds,' effectively banishing her. This sentence is noted solely within the records of the presbytery book, emphasizing the procedural irregularities and possibly the influence of local power dynamics. Despite being found guilty, this form of judicial decision spared Helen the more draconian measures of execution that befell many others accused of similar crimes during the period.