Honoring the Past: Recap of the First Annual Remembrance Day for Connecticut’s Witch Trials Victims

Honoring the legacy of accused witches - a tale of memory, healing and quest for justice.

On February 1, 2025, history came alive in Hartford, Connecticut, as the community gathered for a powerful and poignant remembrance event dedicated to the victims of the infamous witch trials that swept through colonial Connecticut. This event - the first of its kind in Connecticut - is a significant occasion that not only aims to acknowledge the accused but also celebrates the recent legislation that cleared their names in 2023.

Hosted at the historic Old State House, the gathering brought together approximately 65 guests, including many descendants of those wrongfully accused. The day was filled with emotional moments, from dramatic readings to poignant remarks delivered by State Representative Jane Garibay. The gathering featured an expert panel discussion led by historians and the founders of The Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project, shedding light on the historical context and the ongoing journey towards justice and acknowledgment.

One of the emotional highlights of the day was a solemn walk to the Ancient Burying Ground, where attendees paid their respects to the victims. This historic site is particularly significant, as it is intended to house the upcoming Hartford Witch Trial Memorial Project, which aims to create a cenotaph or monument dedicated to those accused of witchcraft during colonial times. The project is still in its early stages, but its mission is clear: to honor the memory of the accused witches and to provide a tangible reminder of this dark chapter in history.

Among those honored was Alice Young, the first person hanged for witchcraft in the American colonies on May 25, 1647. Many of her descendants, along with those of other accused individuals, were present to witness this historic remembrance. Her story, along with many others, serves as a reminder of the injustices of the past and the importance of recognizing and rectifying those historical wrongs.

As we reflect on this meaningful day, we invite you to view a montage of the event created by Windsor Community Television.

The voices of Connecticut’s witch trial victims will not be forgotten. They will continue to resonate throughout the years, serving as a powerful reminder of the need for justice and reconciliation in the face of historical injustices. We look forward to more events like this, where the past is honored and the lessons learned are shared with future generations.