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The Devil in New York - The Witchcraft Trial of Goody Garlick

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Program Type:

Lectures

Age Group:

Adults
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Program Description

Event Details

The most famous American witch-hunt began in 1692 in Salem, Massachusetts. Yet, more than three decades before that notorious event, Long Island had its very own witchcraft trial– the trial of Goody Garlick!  Accusations of flying on poles and cavorting with the Devil ran rampant in the colonies during the 17th century and led to hundreds of accusations of witchcraft. To understand what happened during these trials, it is important to recognize the stresses of ordinary 17th century life in New York and why the fear of witches existed.  Find out more about this fascinating historical period as Dr. Tara Rider details the trial of Goody Garlick and uses it as a lens to illustrate the hysteria associated with these stunning allegations.