In the late 17th century, amidst the turbulent witch trials in Scotland, the name of Jean Ewing emerged in the historical records of Renfrew. Although Jean had already passed away by the time of her denouncement, her spectre lingered in the accusations that were levelled against individuals in this era. The heart of the allegations centred around the torment of Margaret Laird, a victim purportedly assailed by supernatural means. Despite her death, Jean’s memory was evoked when one testimony at a gathering in Paisley between April 19th and 21st, 1699, accused her of participating in these dark acts.
The case of Jean Ewing is illustrative of the complexity and sometimes posthumous nature of witchcraft accusations during this period. The records indicate that rather than pursuing a formal trial, Jean was simply denounced, a fate that suggests a communal judgment rather than a legal conviction. This is underscored by the absence of further proceedings against her, despite the accusations. Jean’s story, as etched into the annals of history, offers a glimpse into the processes and social dynamics of witch trials in Scotland where formal judicial actions were not always necessary to mark an individual’s reputation.