When we think of the Salem Witch Trials, the first image that comes to mind is often of burning torches, pointy hats, and accusations flying left and right. But behind every accused witch, there’s a story—and Sarah Good’s is one that we can’t overlook! Although she wasn’t exactly known for her “accomplishments” in a traditional sense, her story as one of the most infamous victims of the Salem Witch Trials is both tragic and fascinating. Let’s dive into Sarah Good’s world and discover five surprising, detailed facts about this iconic figure from 1692, presented with a touch of fun (and a little bit of mischief, of course).
Sarah Good Wasn’t Your Typical “Witchy” Woman
While the stereotype of a witch may conjure up images of a cackling woman brewing potions, Sarah Good was far from that. She was a destitute woman who had fallen on hard times. After her father’s death, Sarah's family inheritance was mismanaged, leaving her in poverty. She and her husband William Good were often homeless, living off charity or wandering the streets. Her appearance—often unkempt and ragged—didn’t help her reputation. In 1692, being poor and disliked was enough to land you on a witch trial!
Fun Fact: Sarah was known to wander the streets muttering under her breath, which at the time was seen as suspicious behavior. But she may have just been cursing her bad luck—who could blame her?
Sarah’s Sarcasm Didn’t Win Her Any Fans
When you’re being accused of witchcraft, maybe sarcasm isn’t the best response. Sarah was famously uncooperative during her trial. Instead of defending herself politely, she was snarky, and this did not win her any sympathy. During her trial, when asked why she tormented children (a common accusation), she boldly declared that if she was being accused, then the accusers should also look at others, namely Sarah Osburn, another accused woman.
Fun Fact: Sarah Good’s quick-witted, defiant responses may have been her way of resisting an unjust situation. Today, we might call her an OG "sass queen."
Sarah’s Daughter Was Also Accused of Witchcraft
In one of the most heartbreaking turns of events, Sarah Good’s young daughter, Dorcas (sometimes spelled Dorothy), wasn’t spared the witch hunt. At just 4 years old, Dorcas was also accused of being a witch. She was thrown into jail and interrogated, leading to a confession likely coerced from the terrified child. Though Dorcas wasn’t executed, her time in prison scarred her for life.
Fun Fact: Even after the trials ended, Dorcas bore the weight of her mother's accusations. Some say the trauma followed her throughout her life.
Sarah's Final Words Were Defiant to the End
On July 19, 1692, Sarah Good was hanged alongside four other women. But she didn’t go quietly. When Reverend Nicholas Noyes urged her to confess, Sarah boldly replied, "You’re a liar. I am no more a witch than you are a wizard, and if you take away my life, God will give you blood to drink." Talk about a mic drop! Her curse allegedly came true when Noyes died 25 years later, reportedly choking on his own blood. Coincidence? We’ll let you decide.
Fun Fact: This legendary curse makes Sarah Good one of the most memorable figures from the trials, and her fearless spirit lives on in Salem lore.
Her Legacy Lives On as a Symbol of Injustice
Though she wasn’t considered a “witch,” Sarah Good’s story is now recognized as part of a larger tragedy fueled by mass hysteria, superstition, and injustice. Her wrongful execution (along with others) has become a powerful symbol of the dangers of scapegoating and panic. Today, people look back at Sarah’s story and remember her as someone who dared to speak out, even in the face of death.
Fun Fact: Today, you can visit the Salem Witch Trials Memorial, where Sarah Good’s name is engraved alongside the other victims of the trials. Her story has been told in books, plays, and even movies.
Wrapping It Up
Sarah Good may not have been the "witch" the town of Salem feared, but she was certainly a woman who didn’t fit into their narrow expectations. Her story is a mix of misfortune, defiance, and legend—a woman wrongly accused, but not easily forgotten. So next time you think of witches, remember Sarah Good, the real-life rebel who left a lasting mark on history.
Ready to explore more spooky tales from Salem? Stay tuned to our blog at www.kultkawaii.com for more fun facts, stories, and history lessons with a playful twist!