The Nurses were one of the most respected families in Salem. They had a huge family including eight children, several grandchildren and even a great-grandchild by the date of Rebecca's death. Francis and Rebecca were full members of the church, a position of honor. Puritans had to prove to members of the church that they had undergone a conversion experience and were true Christians before they could be considered full members and were thought of as "living saints."
It was a shock when Rebecca was accused. It inspired others to begin to speak more openly against the trials. Forty prominent villagers took great personal risk to sign a petition on behalf of Rebecca and their confidence of her innocence. This, however, was not enough to save her. Rebecca was hanged on July 19, 1962. Even in her last moments, she is said to have maintained the dignity and piety that had characterized her in life.
"I have got nobody to turn to but God" Rebecca Nurse, July 19, 1692, Gallows Hill, Salem, MA
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