In the late 17th century, the town of Renfrew found itself swept up in the fear and turmoil of witch trials, a period that saw many individuals accused of nefarious dealings with the supernatural. Among those embroiled in this climate of suspicion was Margaret Cunninghame, a married woman residing in Carslops, Renfrew. Margaret's case falls into the larger wave of anxiety known as the Renfrewshire witch trials of 1697, a significant eruption of witch hysteria in the region.
Margaret was brought forth to face allegations primarily focused on attending a meeting of witches, a charge that, during this time, evoked images of clandestine gatherings and conspiratorial pacts believed to be made with dark forces. These accusations led to her indictment on April 13, 1697. Her trial, which began on May 12th, was part of a concerted effort to purge the area of witchcraft; however, it seems the proceedings were somewhat drawn out, lasting until May 19th. Ultimately, despite the severity of the accusation, Margaret was released on caution, a form of conditional release that required her to ensure good behavior or perhaps to guarantee her appearance for any further legal proceedings. Though the records do not elucidate her life following this release, the fact that she was spared harsher punishment suggests an outcome less dire than many accused during this tumultuous period in Scottish history.