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Subject of Square:
Goody Cole
Quilter’s Name:
Clare Purcell
Background on subject:
Eunice "Goody" Cole was the only woman in
New Hampshire convicted of witchcraft. Tried for witchcraft in 1656
she was sentenced to life in gaol. What led to her conviction is not
reliably documented. She petitioned and was released to care for her
aging husband. Arraigned on charges in 1671 she was found not guilty.
On March 8, 1938 at the 300th Town Meeting in Hampton she was
restored as a citizen. Artifacts related
to Goody Cole, including a
commemorative doll made in
conjunction with her restoration are
available to view at the Tuck Museum.
Why you chose this subject:
The doll
and other artifacts are reminders of
Hampton's history with all of the
cultural beliefs, fears and humanity of
its residents.
Thoughts on your representation/design/color choices/etc.:
In this quilt square the main figure is in black and white while patterns
and colors swirl around her. The added embroidery on her dress
suggests that she became swept up by the chaos…or may hint that she
was actually close to the spiritual world.
What you hope this quilt will mean for the people who see it:
I hope
people will enjoy seeing and thinking about the lives of earlier Hampton
residents and will visit the Historical Society to learn more about our
town's past.
Quilt Square 02-03 - Goody Cole
