The Court of Oyer and Terminer: May 27, 1692

May 27, 1692: Oyer and Terminer Rises as Jails OverflowWe’re at a turning point on Friday, May 27, 1692, as the new charter transforms Massachusetts into a royal province, wipes out the old legal system, and forces new courts and laws aligned with England—just as overcrowded jails strain under at least 51 witchcraft prisoners and rising “jail fever.” Governor Phips moves fast, creating the special Court of Oyer and Terminer under Chief Justice William Stoughton and a roster of elite, largely non-Salem judges—wealthy merchants, landowners, and doctors—some with prior witch-trial experience. We track the key appointments that will shape Essex County, including young, well-connected George Corwin becoming sheriff, and we follow the wider panic as Connecticut’s Katherine Branch accusations spark examinations and trials of Elizabeth Clawson and Mercy Disborough.00:00 New Phase Begins00:26 Charter Changes Courts01:05 Overcrowded Jails Crisis02:03 Oyer and Terminer Formed02:16 Meet the Justices04:01 Earlier Witch Trial Experience05:17 Court Scope and Reforms06:24 Essex Sheriff Shift06:46 Connecticut Case Update