Eunice Cole, better known as “Goody Cole,” holds a unique place in New Hampshire’s history as the only woman convicted of witchcraft in the state. Her story, set against the backdrop of 17th-century colonial America, sheds light on the fear and superstition that gripped communities during that era.
Goody Cole faced multiple trials for witchcraft, with her first conviction in 1656 leading to a life sentence. Despite her pleas for mercy and attempts to clear her name, she spent much of her final two decades confined in a cold Boston jail cell. The accusations against her ranged from shape-shifting into animals to causing misfortune for her neighbors.
The legend of Goody Cole has endured for centuries, becoming an integral part of Hampton’s local folklore. Her tale serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of mass hysteria and the dangers of unchecked accusations. Today, efforts to rehabilitate her memory and acknowledge the injustices she faced continue to resonate with those who study this dark chapter of New England’s past.
Historical Background
Eunice “Goody” Cole’s story exemplifies the witch hysteria that gripped New England in the 17th century. Her experiences reveal the harsh realities of Puritan society and the devastating consequences of witchcraft accusations during this tumultuous period in early American history.
Early Life of Eunice ‘Goody’ Cole
Eunice Cole was born in England between 1597 and 1598. She immigrated to the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the early 1630s with her husband William Cole. The couple settled in Hampton, New Hampshire, where they faced numerous challenges as early settlers.
Eunice gained the nickname “Goody,” a common term of address for married women at the time. Little is known about her early years in Hampton, but records suggest she struggled to integrate into the tight-knit Puritan community.
Witchcraft Persecution in 17th Century New England
The 17th century saw widespread fear of witchcraft in New England. Puritan beliefs, social tensions, and superstition fueled accusations against individuals who didn’t conform to societal norms.
Witchcraft trials occurred sporadically throughout the region:
- Salem Witch Trials (1692-1693): Most infamous
- Connecticut Witch Trials (1647-1697)
- Hartford Witch Panic (1662-1663)
Accused “witches” faced imprisonment, torture, and execution. Women, especially those who were poor, elderly, or outsiders, were particularly vulnerable to accusations.
Eunice Cole’s Trials and Imprisonment
Eunice Cole endured multiple witchcraft trials and imprisonments:
- 1656: First trial and conviction
- 1673: Second trial
- 1680: Third arrest
Her first conviction resulted in public whipping and life imprisonment in Boston. Cole petitioned for release to care for her ailing husband and was eventually freed.
In 1671, Hampton selectmen ordered residents to support Cole on a rotating basis, indicating her precarious social position. Despite repeated trials, Cole was the only person convicted of witchcraft in New Hampshire’s history.
Cole’s final arrest in 1680 led to her imprisonment in Ipswich jail, where she died in October of that year. Her tragic story highlights the devastating impact of witchcraft accusations on individuals and communities in early America.
Goody Cole in Hampton Society
Eunice “Goody” Cole faced severe accusations and social consequences in 17th-century Hampton, New Hampshire. Her trials and subsequent treatment reflect the harsh realities of colonial life and the impact of witchcraft allegations on individuals.
Accusations and Social Ostracism
Goody Cole’s troubles began in 1656 when she was first tried for witchcraft in Hampton. The community’s suspicions and fears led to her conviction and imprisonment. In 1673, she faced another trial, resulting in a life sentence.
These accusations severely damaged her social standing. Hampton residents grew wary of her presence, viewing her as a threat to their safety and moral fabric.
Life after the Trials
Despite her conviction, Goody Cole’s life took an unexpected turn. She petitioned for release to care for her aging husband, and the authorities granted her request.
In 1671, Hampton selectmen ordered residents to take turns supporting Goody Cole on a weekly basis. This arrangement highlighted her precarious position in society – still ostracized, yet dependent on the community for survival.
Death and Legacy
Goody Cole died in October 1680 in Hampton, New Hampshire. Her passing did not end the controversy surrounding her life. She was buried in an unmarked grave, reflecting the community’s lingering unease.
Centuries later, Hampton sought to address its historical treatment of Goody Cole. In 1938, during the town’s 300th anniversary, efforts were made to symbolically clear her name.
The Society in Hampton for the Apprehension of Those Falsely Accusing Eunice ‘Goody’ Cole of Having Had Familiarity With the Devil was formed. This group aimed to bring attention to her story and rectify past injustices.
A memorial stone now marks Goody Cole’s place in Hampton’s history, serving as a reminder of the consequences of witchcraft accusations in colonial New England.
Legends and Literature
Goody Cole’s story inspired numerous legends and literary works. Her reputation as a witch sparked local folklore and caught the attention of prominent writers.
Folklore and Ghost Stories
Goody Cole became a central figure in Hampton’s ghostly tales. Locals claimed to see her spirit wandering the town after her death. Some reported eerie encounters near her grave. Her alleged powers were blamed for mishaps and tragedies.
One legend tied Goody Cole to a shipwreck. In 1657, a small vessel sank off Hampton’s coast, drowning eight people. Townspeople accused Cole of causing the disaster through witchcraft. This event likely inspired John Greenleaf Whittier’s poem “The Wreck of Rivermouth.”
John Greenleaf Whittier’s Writings
John Greenleaf Whittier immortalized Goody Cole in his poetry. He wrote two poems about her: “The Changeling” and “Wreck of Rivermouth.” These works portrayed Cole sympathetically.
“The Changeling” depicted Cole as a misunderstood outcast. Whittier emphasized her humanity and the injustice of her treatment. “Wreck of Rivermouth” wove her into a tale of coastal tragedy. The poet’s work helped preserve Cole’s story for future generations.
Whittier’s poems sparked renewed interest in Goody Cole. They influenced later retellings of her legend. His portrayal as the “Witch of Hampton” became a lasting part of New England’s literary tradition.
Modern Interpretation and Commemoration
Eunice “Goody” Cole’s story has gained significant attention in recent times, leading to various efforts to commemorate her life and reexamine her historical treatment. These initiatives have shaped public perception and elevated her status in local folklore.
Memorialization Efforts
In 1963, a memorial stone was placed on the lawn of the Tuck Museum in Hampton, New Hampshire, serving as a quiet tribute to Goody Cole. This unmarked stone represented an early step in acknowledging her historical significance. The Hampton Historical Society has played a crucial role in preserving and sharing Goody Cole’s story through exhibits and educational programs.
In August 1938, during Hampton’s 300th-anniversary celebration, Goody Cole’s imagined likeness became a central theme. Her image appeared on various commemorative items, including pamphlets, plaques, street signs, coins, and an air mail cachet. A Goody Cole doll and a “Witch of Hampton” booklet were also created, demonstrating her integration into local cultural identity.
Goody Cole Society and Public Perception
The Goody Cole Society emerged as a dedicated group focused on rehabilitating Goody Cole’s reputation and promoting awareness of her story. The society has organized public ceremonies and educational events to foster a more nuanced understanding of her life and the historical context of witch trials.
Cheryl Lassiter, a local historian and author, has contributed significantly to modern interpretations of Goody Cole’s life. Her research and writings have helped shed light on the complexities of Cole’s experiences and the social dynamics of 17th-century Hampton.
Public perception of Goody Cole has shifted from fear and condemnation to empathy and fascination. Many now view her as a symbol of injustice and the dangers of superstition, rather than as a malevolent figure.
Cult Status and Contemporary Relevance
Goody Cole has achieved a cult status in Hampton and beyond. Her story continues to captivate audiences, inspiring artistic works and local traditions. “The Mark of Goody Cole,” a book exploring her legend, has further popularized her tale.
The legend of Goody Cole remains relevant in contemporary discussions about social justice, gender roles, and the treatment of marginalized individuals. Her story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of unchecked accusations and societal prejudices.
Local schools often incorporate Goody Cole’s story into their curriculum, using it as a tool to teach critical thinking and historical analysis. This educational approach ensures that her legacy continues to resonate with new generations.
Significant Locations and Artifacts
Several important sites and objects relate to Goody Cole’s witchcraft trials and legacy in New Hampshire. These include museums, historical records, and locations tied to key events in her life.
Tuck Museum and Goody Cole Room
The Tuck Museum in Hampton, New Hampshire houses a dedicated Goody Cole Room. This exhibit showcases artifacts and information about Eunice “Goody” Cole’s life and witchcraft trials. Visitors can view reproductions of 17th century documents and learn about Cole’s experiences in Hampton. The museum also features displays on colonial life and other aspects of local history.
Artifacts and Trial Records
Key artifacts related to Goody Cole’s case include court records from her witchcraft trials. These documents detail the accusations against her and provide insight into 17th century legal proceedings. Some records mention claims of Cole’s “familiarity with the devil” and alleged magical powers. A horseshoe associated with Cole is also preserved, though its exact significance is unclear.
Hampton and Exeter Sites
Several locations in Hampton and Exeter, New Hampshire have connections to Goody Cole’s story. The site of her former home in Hampton is marked, though the original structure no longer stands. Cole was imprisoned in Exeter during one of her trials. The former location of the jail can be visited, offering a tangible link to her experiences. Boston Prison, where Cole was also held at one point, no longer exists but its former site is known.