It was believed that St. Ninian's well was holy, and its water had magical properties that could both heal and curse people. The well would be referenced in 49 year-old Bessie Stevenson's witch trial as proof of her dark magic. According to her case, Stevenson washed people's clothes in St. Ninian's well for healing. This would either 'end them or mend them.' She learned it from lady McFarlen's daughter 24 years prior. On her way back to the well, she would transfer the disease if she meet anyone. While Bessie confessed to healing with deeds, she denied the accusations of witchcraft or using of words. She plead not guilty, but to no avail. The council found her guilty and she was executed.
