Johnne Brughe was a prominent figure within the communities of Fossoway and Tullibole, where he operated as a professional healer for over sixty years. By the time he reached the age of fifty-six, Johnne had established a significant reputation for his craft, receiving payment for his services in both currency and kind. These payments were often substantial, reflecting the value placed upon his expertise in treating the ailments of his neighbours. However, this established practice eventually drew scrutiny; while many of the charges brought against him centered on these standard healing arts, others alleged that Johnne exercised a more retributive power, claiming he sought revenge against those who failed to offer timely or sufficient payment for his assistance.
The legal proceedings against Johnne culminated in November 1643, when he was brought to Edinburgh to stand trial. His involvement in the period's broader social anxieties was underscored by his documented associations with several other individuals accused of witchcraft, including Neane Vcclerick, John McIlvorie, Katherine Mitchell, Margaret Kinard, and those identified as Margaret Kynglassie and the elusive figure known as NikNeveing. Following a trial in which he provided a confession, Johnne was found guilty of the charges, which included participating in witches’ meetings. On November 24, 1643, he was taken to Castle Hill, where his life was ended by the standard judicial process of strangulation followed by burning.
