1 review of The Testing of Grace Sherwood Historical Marker
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Bruce K.
Place rating: 5 Charlotte, NC
More than just the marker, there is a touching statue here of Grace Sherwood. Having visited the Virginia Beach area many times and spending some time here, it never occurred to me to think about where the name of «Witchduck Road» came from. And now that I know the sad tale of it, I share it with you. The marker reads: «The witchcraft case of Grace Sherwood is one of the best known in Virginia. She was accused of bewitching a neighbor’s crop in 1698. Allegations grew over time until the Princess Anne County government and her accusers decided she would be tested by ducking, since water was considered pure and would not permit a witch to sink into its depths. Sherwood’s accusers on 10 July 1706 tied her hands to her feet and dropped her into the Western Branch of the Lynnhaven River near what is now known as Witch Duck Point. Sherwood floated, a sign of guilt. She was imprisoned, but was eventually released. Sherwood lived the rest of her life quietly and died by 1740.» There is also a small plaque at the foot of the statue that reads: «I am pleased to join the Mayor of Virginia Beach in extending best wishes as you work to promote justice in the 1706 „witch ducking“ case of Grace Sherwood. With 300 years of hindsight, we all certainly can agree that trial by water is an injustice. We can also celebrate the fact woman’s equality is that a constitutionally protected today, and woman have the freedom to pursue their hopes and dreams. The historical records that survive indicate that Ms. Sherwood, a midwife and widowed mother of three, survived her „Trial by Water“ in 1706. Those records also indicate that one of my predecessors, Governor Alexander Spotswood, eventually helped her reclaim her property. The record also indicates Ms. Sherwood led an otherwise quiet and law-abiding life until she died at the age of 80. Today, July 10, 2006, as the 70th Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, I am pleased to officially restore the good name of Grace Sherwood. Sincerely, Timothy M. Kane» The marker and statue(with a small bench) are at the corner of Independence and Witchduck Road in front of the hospital.
