Signed Limited Edition Print of 12
30 x 30cm
Printed on Museum Etching 350gsm paper
 
As seen at my solo exhibition 'Six Hills Secrets'  at Stevenage Museum, 9th March - 28 April 2026.
 
Jane Wenham, was tried at the last witch trial in England in 1712. A local farmer John Chapman first accused her of witchcraft after the death of his cattle. Next, servant Anne Thorn, alleged Wenham had caused her the compulsion to drown herself in the river, witnessed by clergyman Francis Bragge. After admitting meeting the Devil, who came to her in the form of a cat, Wenham went to trial. She requested a swimming test to prove her innocence but was found guilty. However, Justice Powell was sceptical and reversed the decision. When accused of flying he said that ‘there is no law against flying’. Wenham also refused to conform to the Church of England and attended Dissenting Meetings. This may or may not be connected to her witch hunt by the local clergymen.
 
The Clock Tower & Pool was designed by Chief Architect of the Stevenage Development Corporation, Leonard Vincent. Would Jane Wenham, the witch of Walkern, demand a swimming trial in the clock tower’s pool?