Chipping Campden Town Hall
19/03/2026
7:30 PM
Join Wayne Perkins at the CCHS Talks Programme for Witchcraft in Gloucestershire: The Archaeological Evidence, an intriguing exploration of belief, folklore, and the material traces of magic in the historic landscape.
An Associate Member of the Chartered Institute for Archaeologists with a BA (Hons) in Archaeology, Wayne Perkins brings scholarly insight and field experience to this compelling subject. Drawing on court records, material finds, and regional case studies, he examines how accusations of witchcraft shaped lives - and how archaeology helps us better understand the fears and beliefs of the past.
During this illustrated talk, you will explore:
- The historical reality behind 17th-century witchcraft accusations.
- The role of Wise Women and Cunning Men within local communities.
- The impact of the Witchcraft Act of 1562 and subsequent trials.
- Physical and archaeological evidence, including so-called “witch bottles” and concealed objects.
Perfect for local history enthusiasts, archaeology lovers, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of folklore, belief, and material culture, this talk offers a thought-provoking glimpse into a darker chapter of Gloucestershire’s past.
Chipping Campden History Society
