For Halloween, a program about witches seems entirely appropriate.  Our speaker, Steve Martin, is author of “A Witch in the Family”—the fascinating story of Suzannah North Martin, his seven-times-great grandmother who was hanged as a witch in 1692 in Salem, Massachusetts.

In writing this book, Steve researched court proceedings from the trial and began to wonder whether Suzannah had really been practicing witchcraft. She was among five women hanged on Gallows Hill on July 19, 1692.  This was just the beginning.  The trials and executions continued, and before it was over, 19 were hanged, one was crushed to death, and five died in prison.

Steve’s name is familiar in Richmond, as he was a principal in the award-winning Martin Agency with his brother Dave.  Steve himself is an award-winning author of more than three dozen books, including five published novels, half a dozen business management titles, and a number of self-help books and metaphysical investigations.  He is editor and publisher of The Oaklea Press.

Today, Steve consults with business owners, executives, and marketing directors about actions they might take to improve the sales of their brands.  He specializes in brand creation and rejuvenation.

Steve was born and raised in Richmond, attended George Wythe High School, and finished at Saint Christopher’s.  He is a graduate of Hampden-Sydney, where he majored in economics, was all-conference center on the football team, and editor of the yearbook. Along the way, he partied with the Kappa Sigma fraternity. He and his wife live in Richmond and have three children.