This statue, located off a busy road in Virginia Beach, honors Grace Sherwood, the “witch of Pungo.”
Born around 1660, Grace Sherwood was the last person convicted of witchcraft in Virginia. In 1698, after a neighborhood dispute, she was accused of bewitching livestock and crops. After her husband died, conflicts with neighbors continued, leading to multiple accusations of witchcraft. In 1706, she was tried for allegedly causing a neighbor’s miscarriage. Two “witch’s marks” were found on her body, and she underwent a “ducking” trial in the Lynnhaven River on July 10, 1706. She floated, which was seen as proof of guilt.
The results of a subsequent trial are unknown, but she likely spent time in prison. By 1714, she had her land returned and lived until around 1740.
Today, her statue stands by Sentara Bayside Hospital, near the old jail site, with a raccoon and a basket of rosemary symbolizing her love for animals and her nursing skills. Nearby, Old Donation Episcopal Church has a marker commemorating her. In 2006, Governor Tim Kaine issued an informal pardon, 300 years after her trial.
Where? – 800 Independence Boulevard, Virginia Beach, Virginia, 23455 United States
