Elizabeth Lowys facts for kids

Elizabeth Lowys, who died on March 30, 1565, was an English woman. She is known as the first woman to be put to death for witchcraft in England. This happened after a new law, the Witchcraft Act 1563, was passed.

Who Was Elizabeth Lowys?

Elizabeth Lowys lived in a village called Great Waltham in Essex, England. She was married to a farmer named John Lowys from Chelmsford. Elizabeth was known in her community as a "cunning woman."

What Was a Cunning Woman?

A cunning woman was someone who people believed had special knowledge. They used folk magic, which was a mix of old traditions and beliefs. People would go to them for help with many things.

• They might help find lost items.
• They could try to heal illnesses.
• Sometimes, people thought they could protect against bad luck.

In those times, people often didn't have doctors like today. So, cunning folk were important in their communities.

Accusations and Trial

Elizabeth Lowys was first accused of making people sick. These accusations came from Phillipa Deale, Agnes Devonshe, and even her own husband.

The First Court Hearing

In June 1564, Elizabeth was brought before a church court. This court was called the archdeacon's court. A local church leader, Brian Neadham, gathered information against her. However, at this first hearing, she was not found guilty.

A Second Trial and Sentence

During the first trial, more serious accusations came up. People claimed she had used witchcraft to harm others. Because of these new claims, she had another trial. In June 1564, she was found guilty and sentenced to death. Her punishment was delayed for a while because she said she was pregnant, which was not true.