Trial T/JO/1133

Trial Summary
Trial RefT/JO/1133
CaseLindsay,James
AccusedJames Lindsay
Trial Date12/5/1697
Location
ParishP/ST/1328
PresbyteryPaisley
CountyRenfrew
Outcome
VerdictGuilty
SentenceExecution
DefenceYes
High StatusYes
Female Accusers16
Male Accusers22
Executed
Method: Strangle & Burn
Date: 10/6/1697
Place: Gallow Green
Pre-Trial
Confronting SuspectsNo

Notes: Note in presbytery that the suspects were held in the houses of the local ministers. One of several people accused by Christian Shaw. Accused of trying to bribe his way out of a previous witchcraft accusation. The commission was read out in the burgh of Renfrew on 18/3/1697. This case was under a PC commission (see PC1/51 p. 136-9) along with most of the people tried at the same time. There were other Renfrewshire witchcraft suspects tried at different places and times. I am keeping this as a mixed/central local because the Privy Council maintained very strict control over the proceedings, even though they granted a commission. For details of the proceedings of Privy Council in this matter see the no named witches case c/la/3235.

DatePlaceLocationCentralRecordedTextRetracted
2/1697 — ✓ — —

DatePrisonLocationFate in Prison
2/1697House
15/4/1697TolboothRenfrewMoved
12/5/1697TolboothPaisley

DateBodyTypeSeal
19/3/1697Privy CouncilJusticiary

text in JC10/4

DateAuthorityReason
18/2/1697Privy Councilpresbytery request commission

DateType
Pricking

NameTitleInvolvementWitch Pricker
Matthew Brisbane Dr Expert Witness —
James Crawford Chancellor —
Francis Grant Mr Prosecutor —
John Menzies Mr of Cammo Prosecutor —
James Roberton Mr Defence —
Christian Shaw Complainer —
James Stewart Sir Prosecutor —
Trial Notes
Note in presbytery records on 18/3/1697 that the ministers and accused are to go to Renfrew tomorrow for the trial. Trial started on 13/4/1697 but was continued until 12/5/1697 and lasted until 19/5/1697.
Post-Trial Notes
between 2-4