Islandmagee Witch Trial Memorial Stone Relocated to Community Garden

A memorial stone marking Ireland’s last witch trial has been relocated to the Islandmagee Community Garden. The site now serves as a place of remembrance, education, and community reflection, highlighting a historic 1711 trial in Carrickfergus.

Memorial Stone Given New Home in Islandmagee

A memorial stone commemorating the last witch trial on the island of Ireland has been officially relocated to a new home at the Islandmagee Community Garden.

The stone is now positioned beneath a striking sculpture known as “Willow,” which provides both symbolic and physical protection within the volunteer-led garden space. The garden is managed by the Islandmagee Community Development Association (ICDA) and forms part of a wider wellbeing and food-sharing initiative in the area.

A Historic Chapter Remembered

The memorial honours the Islandmagee Witch Trials of 1711, which took place at Carrickfergus Courthouse.

During these trials:

• Eight women and one man were found guilty
• The women involved alleged witchcraft against a young girl, Mary Dunbar
• It marked the final known witch trial in Ireland

Today, the relocated stone ensures this significant historical event remains visible and accessible to both locals and visitors.

Community-Led Preservation Effort

The unveiling of the memorial brought together members of the local community, including:

• Islandmagee Community Gardening Group
• Islandmagee Community Fridge representatives
• Islandmagee Community Development Association

The stone will now be maintained by volunteers, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

The garden itself is a growing hub for:

• Community wellbeing
• Food-sharing initiatives
• Inclusive local engagement