Walking the Hedge

Hullo!

I am writing an article (and perhaps a chapter for a book) on the etymology of the word “Hedgewitch”. That is, the history of the term.

While many Trad Witches insist the term “Hedgewitch” was used by Trad Witches before it was popularized as a solitary Wiccan or Kitchenwitch, there seems to be a terrible lack of evidence for this.

If any Trad Witches can point me in the direction of the usage of the term “Hedgewitch and “Hedgerider” in the modern era (I don’t need to be pointed to the Havamal etc, thanks) prior to, or around the time of Rae Beth’s publishing of her famous Wiccan Hedgewitch book in 1990 that would be grand. You’d also be doing a service for the Trad Witch community eh. Basically any indication of those specific terms being used between say 1800 and 1995 is required. I’d rather something other than hearsay and conjecture, such as literary evidence, but am willing to look at personal stories and artwork as well.

You will receive acknowledgement for your contribution of course.

EDITED FOR CLARITY: I am specifically looking for evidence that MODERN Traditional Witches were using the term “Hedgewitch” before 1990.

Thanks!

my email is juniper@walkingthehedge.net