8. Elizabeth Pruitt
Chapter 8
Elizabeth Pruitt
E lizabeth Pruitt was born in Salem, Massachusetts in 1672. She is the first documented case of witchcraft in the Pruitt family line, and as such is considered the original matriarch of the family. Since Elizabeth, every female born has been blessed with magic.
Her parents were George and Dorothy, and it is unknown if either possessed magic. Elizabeth never mentions it in her journals—she only speaks of her own experiences with magic, starting at the age of twelve. It’s been assumed that this corresponds with her first course.
These journals are published separately.
Her family was seemingly respected in the community and had more than enough to provide for themselves. As their only child, Elizabeth describes herself as being doted upon by her parents and having a loving, yet formal, relationship with them.
At twelve, Elizabeth began experimenting with her new blessing of magic. It first manifested in the form of telekinesis, later redefined as a special connection with the air element. She expanded her skills quickly, coming up with many of the spells still used today.
When Elizabeth was seventeen she met James Lawson, who was a traveling merchant. Their courtship was a quick affair and they were married within the year. Elizabeth describes him as her “true love” in her journals and their connection as “like the buzzing of bees.”
Around the time Elizabeth was nineteen, whispers about witchcraft were growing. Elizabeth was unaware of anyone else in Salem having powers, but never discussed them with anyone. It has been revealed by looking at other journals from the time that there were, in fact, other witches. It’s unsurprising they did not reveal themselves—presumably an attempt to protect their lives and families.
At the same time, Elizabeth became pregnant with her only child, a daughter she would name Abigail. Because of the growing fear and resentment of witchcraft, Elizabeth had her daughter in secret and swore James to an oath that if Elizabeth were to be arrested, he would take Abigail and leave Salem forever.
It was this oath that saved the Pruitt line.
Elizabeth was formally charged in 1692; her accuser was never revealed. Because of the promise James made, he left immediately with the infant Abigail, and Elizabeth was able to spin the tale that he left her because of the accusations against her.
No one ever learned of Abigail’s existence.
Elizabeth was burned at the stake in 1693 Upon her stake, she swore that with each woman, her line would strengthen. This oath has held, as each generation has built upon the foundation she laid.
James and Abigail learned of her fate a few years later when James came through looking for news. He never remarried.