Proctor Farm

The farm was originally owned by John Proctor (1632-1692), a local 17th century farmer and tavern keeper. During the Salem Witch Trials, he was accused of witchcraft, convicted and hanged. Proctor was in his 60's when the trials began. His wife, Elizabeth, was accused first of witchcraft by 12-year-old Abigail Williams on March 14, 1692, although no arrest warrant was drawn up until Friday, April 4, when John Proctor was also named. Elizabeth Proctor avoided execution because she was pregnant and by the time she had delivered her son, pardons were granted to the accused. She was still a convicted felon under the law, however, and thus unable to claim her late husband's property.