Most people have at least some knowledge about the Salem Witch trials or about Witch Trials in general. Few have ever heard the tale of a witch hanging that happened right here in New Brunswick. If you ever find yourself traveling along Gorge Road in Moncton across from the cement and culvert company site in the woods, you may come across one of the graves of Rebecca Lutz.  

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Rebecca’s story begins with her death in the 1870’s, she was accused of not only being a witch but also, a vampire, a female evil incarnate, of having psychic powers, and also practicing demonic rituals because there were animals being stolen and killed. People believed their blood was being used for said demonic rituals. Rebecca was hung from the branch of a large poplar tree then cut down and buried at the base of her makeshift gallows. Rebecca was buried face down so that if she were to come back to life, she would dig downwards instead of upwards. This precaution did not satisfy the people, though later her grave was covered in cement to ensure that she was sealed in and indefinitely unable to escape. People have claimed to see a black cat sitting atop her grave then vanishing moments later. Others have claimed to see bloodstains on the grave many times. People have also reported seeing odd lights passing across Rebecca’s grave. There are official records that say that Rebecca Lutz, adopted daughter of Jane Lutz, died on January 2nd, 1876. However, they state that she died of tuberculosis at the age of sixteen, not of hanging. 

This is not the only “Rebecca’s Grave” in Moncton nor is it the only story on Rebecca Lutz. Another “Rebecca’s Grave” is about a girl who died on a voyage over from England. Her grave had a statue of a child with rubies for eyes but now all that remains of the statue is the unsettling sight of a headless child with one hand missing. According to the story, if you say her name, close your eyes, and stand below her, Rebecca’s missing hand will squeeze your shoulder.

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The third story about Rebecca Lutz takes place back in the 1700s. Rebecca’s family was one of the eight families residing in La Coude New Brunswick. Both Rebecca and her mother, Diane Lutz, were suspected of being witches. Rebecca was apparently burnt alive in front of her mother and Diane was hung outside their home on Gorge Road. It is said that Diane had whispered right before she died into the bishop’s ear what his wife had said to him on the day of their wedding. 

Whichever tale you believe or do not believe is up to you but, if you ever plan to visit either or both of Rebeccas’ graves, you may not want to go alone.

Happy Halloween from the Baron team!