On this day: February 29

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1692 • neutral • 38 views

Proceedings in Salem Village mark start of 1692 witch trials

Late 17th-century New England village street with simple wooden houses and a small meetinghouse; a group of townspeople in period clothing gathered outside while a doorway shows magistrates consulting papers.

In late February 1692, a wave of accusations in Salem Village led local magistrates to begin formal examinations and arrests that launched the series of events now known as the Salem witch trials.

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Year unknown • neutral • 31 views

Proceedings in Salem Village Begin the 1692 Witch Trials

Late 17th-century New England village meeting house and surrounding homes under winter light, villagers gathered outside in period clothing showing concern and whispering; no identifiable faces.

In late February 1692, preliminary hearings and examinations in Salem Village set in motion the sequence of accusations and court actions that became the Salem witch trials, with local magistrates recording the first formal charges and afflicted testimony.

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