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Photographer: Brandon D Cross
Taken: January 29, 2019
Caption: Governers Exoneration
Additional Description: Timothy M. Kane Governor Ms. Belinda Nash Dear Ms. Nash: I am pleased to join the Mayor of Virginia Beach in extending best wishes as you work to promote justice in 1706 “Witch Ducking” case of Grace Sherwood. With 300 years of hindsight , we all certainly can agree that trial by water is an injustice. We also can celebrate the fact woman’s equality is that a constitutionally protected today, and and women have the freedom to pursue their hopes and dreams. The historical records that survive indicate that Ms. Sherwood , a midwife and widowed mother of three, survived her “Trail by Water” in 1706. Those records also indicate that one of my predecessors, Governor Alexander Spotswood, eventually helped her claim her property. The record also indicates Ms. Sherwood led an otherwise quiet and law-abiding life until she died at the age of 80. Today, July 10, 2006, as the 70th Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, I am pleased to officially restore the good name of Grace Sherwood. Sincerely, Timothy M. Kane
Submitted: June 5, 2019, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida.
Database Locator Identification Number: p478137
File Size: 1.883 Megabytes

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