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33 New Road, Sawston

Witchcraft and Apotropaic Markings in Sawston

1920s

A series of Witches’ marks or Apotropaic Markings were recently found at this site. They are intended to ward off witches and evil spirits by carving patterns such as ‘Daisy wheels, or hexafoils’.  It is believed these carvings date from the early 1920s.

Click the link below to see a full scan.

BACKDOOR OVERALL NUMBERED 2

 

Whilst the inhabitants, and possible  engravers of these symbols, came from Whittlesey, Sawston itself had an existing history of witchcraft in the village.  See this history of  St Mary’s Sawston for more information.

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