In the small community of Whythill, Renfrew, in the late 17th century, Jannet Rodgers found herself caught in the turbulent wave of accusations that characterized the Renfrewshire witch trials of 1697, one of the last major witch trials in Scotland. At the age of 30, Jannet was charged with attending a witches' meeting—an accusation that carried significant weight during a time when fear of witchcraft permeated society. Her mention in the initial indictment hearing underscores how severely these suspicions could disrupt the lives of ordinary individuals living in such closely-knit communities.
The records indicate that Jannet's ordeal began on April 13, 1697, when she was indicted in Renfrew. However, what might have escalated into severe consequences changed course when her case was re-examined on May 18, 1697. On that day, her case was dismissed, as her "diet was deserted," suggesting that the legal proceedings against her were halted, and she was subsequently released. This outcome, while fortunate for Jannet, must have marked a period of significant distress, especially considering her familial ties to another accused—her sister. Her case stands as a poignant reminder of the complexities and personal hardships experienced by those swept up in the witch trials of early modern Scotland.