Sarah Wilson Preston, Accused Salem Witch Trials

Sarah (Wilson) Preston (1678 - 1720), daughter of Joseph Wilson and Sarah Lord of Andover, was just 14 years old when she and her mother were arrested for witchcraft on 7 September 1692, after the Reverend Thomas Barnard conducted his infamous "touch test."

After spending six weeks in prison she was released on bail on 15 October. Three months later, in January 1693, her mother was also released. On 10 May 1693, both mother and daughter appeared at the Superior Court of Judicature at Ipswich and were acquitted.

Born 31 December 1678 at Andover, Essex County, Massachusetts, Sarah married Jacob Preston on 17 June 1702; they settled in Ashford, Windham County, Connecticut. She died at the age of 42 in 1720 at Ashford.

Children of Jacob and Sarah Preston

1. David Preston (1703 - 1755)
2. Benjamin Preston (1705 - 1784)
3. Unknown Preston (1707 - died in infancy)
4. Jacob Preston (1707 - ?)
5. William Preston (1711 - 1778)
6. Joseph Preston (1712 - 1803)
7. John Preston (1716 - 1776)