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14 years ago
Monday, December 14, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Ghost Hunting Should Be Professional
Ghost Hunting can be very fun and yet at times it can be one of the most terrifying things you will probably ever do in your life.
The following are just a few of the things folks have encountered during ghost hunting or paranormal investigations:
1. Smells: These smells can seem to come from no where, and develop instantly and disappear just as fast. The smells are often putrid like rotted meat, or like fresh bowel movements, and are very overpowering at times.
2. Apparitions: Some spirits appear as barely visible forms, while some become as solid and normal looking as a living person.
3. Clouds - Mists - Masses: Often fleeting shadows, things seen out of the corners of the eyes are encountered. Or a rolling black mass may appear, sometimes a whispy form like smoke is seen.
4. Disembodied voices: These are often heard and at times they can be very scary. Imagine being in a darkened room, and having something invisible whisper or even shout in your ear. These are not EVP's, but normal sounding speech.
5. Physical Sensations - Some ghost hunters have been touched, pinched, slapped, had their hair pulled, been scratched or even bitten by invisible entities.
6. Rappings - Scratching - and Knockings: In walls, ceilings and floors. strange sounds and noises are often heard in haunted locations, as well as hearing what sounds like objects being dropped, or moved in nearby rooms.
7. Cold spots: Sometimes just before a spirit manifests they draw energy from the surroundings. Often a spot in one area of a room will suddenly become very cold. For example the temperature thoughout a room may average 75 degrees but in one corner or area, the temperature will suddenly plummet to 50 degrees or even colder. This is a sure sign of a spirits presence or a soon manifestation.
8. Power drains and equipment malfunctions: Like cold spots, when a spirit is drawing energy needed to become solid or more visible, they will often draw-in nearby energy, this energy can also come from batteries in video camers, and other devices. Often cameras, tape recorders, even lights will suddenly go haywire or stop working all together when a spirit is present.
Almost everyone that does ghost hunting believes that there are two types of spirits, human and in-human, the latter are also called demons. I am a born again christian and believe the bible 100%. From my beliefs in the bible as factual. I believe there is only one type of spirit involved in any haunting, and these are in-human or demons.
According to the bible, when we are dead our spirits or souls are present with God, from there we are either granted a life of love and peace in heaven with the creator and the other believers, or we are cast into hell forever, with no chance of escape. The bible also says there is a huge chasm or void that separates the living from the dead, they cannot cross over or communicate with each other. There are other statements in the bible that clearly says that ghosts can not be the spirits or souls of people who have died.
Whether the creatures involved in a haunting are spirits of dead humans or whether they are demons, if one is trying to prove that they truly exist or if you are trying to disprove a haunting, then you must do paranormal investigations as a professional.
A professional Ghost Hunter or paranormal investigator needs to have the right tools. Here I will explain devices that every ghost hunter or paranormal investigator MUST have, if he or she is truly taking the phenomenon as real or as a business, and not as a joke.
1. Voice Recorder: It doesn't matter if you use a standard tape recorder or one of the new digital recorders, what does matter is the quality and the ability to use an external microphone. Try to get one that is of good quality, but make sure you get one that has a plug in microphone with a cable or cord so the end of the microphone is away from the recorder. The small all-in-one recorders that have the built in microphones, pick up a lot of the hiss and gear noises of the recorders when they are in record mode. A recorder is a necessity for recording EVP's. EVP's also called (electronic voice phenomenom) are a very unique and sometimes frightening thing that is often encountered in a haunted area. What an EVP is, is a voice or other communication that is heard on a tape or digital recorder during playback, that was not heard when the recorder was recording.
2. Film Camera: Do NOT use a digital camera because the photo will always be questioned as being fake, no matter how good it is, where if you use a film camera, you at least have the negatives as some proof. And unless you buy a high mega-pixel digital camera, the photo quality will be less than a nice cheap 35mm film camera.
3. Camcorder: A camera is good, but a camcorder is even better. Get one that uses a tape, either the small cassettes or one of the older models that use the full sized VHS tapes. I bought two of these older camcorders for under $75 each recently.
4. Thermal Imaging scopes or goggles: These capture the upper portion of the infrared light spectrum, which is emitted as heat by objects instead of simply reflected as light. Hotter objects, such as warm bodies, emit more of this light than cooler objects like trees or buildings. Often spirits that manifest have a temperature in their form that stands out in this spectrum, especially if a spirit is present in a cold location.
5. Night Vision scopes or goggles: These little devices have become very cheap, a nice night vision scope can now be purchased easily for under $200. They work by collecting the tiny amounts of light, including the lower portion of the infrared light spectrum, that are present but may be imperceptible to our eyes, and amplifying it to the point that we can easily observe the image.
6. Flashlight: Take along two small pocket ones for each team member. What can be worse then exploring a dark cellar or underground area, and having the lights or another flashlight fail.
7. Walkie Talkies: If you have a group of team members, and you are investigating a large location, walkie talkies are not just a good thing to have, but they can be a life saver at times.
8. Notebook and pencils: Often any electronic, electrical or other devices may fail in a haunted location, so it's very wise to carry along a small notebook and some pencils in case you need to keep some valuable notes.
9. Thermal Scanner: A hand held thermal scanner (thermometer) uses infrared technology to measure the surface temperature of material without touching it. You simply point at your target, pull the trigger and read the temperature on the lit LCD display.
One of the best tools I recommend, is also the cheapest, under $10 U.S. It is a computer software program that is made just for Ghost Hunting and Paranormal Investigations. It's called 'Ghost Hunter'. The software is for anyone who explores haunted houses or locations where any type of paranormal activity is occurring. Whether you are trying to gather evidence of the haunting or other proof, this software can help make the job more organized and easier.
Ghost Hunter software was made as a scientific tool, for paranormal researchers that believe in spirits, demons, or ghosts. Researchers can easily keep track of vital data gathered at the haunted locations. With this software you can know at a glance such vital information as; the date and times of the activity, location info, GPS data, telephone numbers, notes, sounds heard, odors detected, temperature anomalies, and more.
You can use the software on location during the investigation with any WINDOWS based notebook Computer or back at home or in the office after the investigation.
For more information and the ability to download and try a free demo version of the 'Ghost Hunter' software, please visit the publishers website: http://www.rb59.com/ghosth
By Robert W. Benjamin
Source
The following are just a few of the things folks have encountered during ghost hunting or paranormal investigations:
1. Smells: These smells can seem to come from no where, and develop instantly and disappear just as fast. The smells are often putrid like rotted meat, or like fresh bowel movements, and are very overpowering at times.
2. Apparitions: Some spirits appear as barely visible forms, while some become as solid and normal looking as a living person.
3. Clouds - Mists - Masses: Often fleeting shadows, things seen out of the corners of the eyes are encountered. Or a rolling black mass may appear, sometimes a whispy form like smoke is seen.
4. Disembodied voices: These are often heard and at times they can be very scary. Imagine being in a darkened room, and having something invisible whisper or even shout in your ear. These are not EVP's, but normal sounding speech.
5. Physical Sensations - Some ghost hunters have been touched, pinched, slapped, had their hair pulled, been scratched or even bitten by invisible entities.
6. Rappings - Scratching - and Knockings: In walls, ceilings and floors. strange sounds and noises are often heard in haunted locations, as well as hearing what sounds like objects being dropped, or moved in nearby rooms.
7. Cold spots: Sometimes just before a spirit manifests they draw energy from the surroundings. Often a spot in one area of a room will suddenly become very cold. For example the temperature thoughout a room may average 75 degrees but in one corner or area, the temperature will suddenly plummet to 50 degrees or even colder. This is a sure sign of a spirits presence or a soon manifestation.
8. Power drains and equipment malfunctions: Like cold spots, when a spirit is drawing energy needed to become solid or more visible, they will often draw-in nearby energy, this energy can also come from batteries in video camers, and other devices. Often cameras, tape recorders, even lights will suddenly go haywire or stop working all together when a spirit is present.
Almost everyone that does ghost hunting believes that there are two types of spirits, human and in-human, the latter are also called demons. I am a born again christian and believe the bible 100%. From my beliefs in the bible as factual. I believe there is only one type of spirit involved in any haunting, and these are in-human or demons.
According to the bible, when we are dead our spirits or souls are present with God, from there we are either granted a life of love and peace in heaven with the creator and the other believers, or we are cast into hell forever, with no chance of escape. The bible also says there is a huge chasm or void that separates the living from the dead, they cannot cross over or communicate with each other. There are other statements in the bible that clearly says that ghosts can not be the spirits or souls of people who have died.
Whether the creatures involved in a haunting are spirits of dead humans or whether they are demons, if one is trying to prove that they truly exist or if you are trying to disprove a haunting, then you must do paranormal investigations as a professional.
A professional Ghost Hunter or paranormal investigator needs to have the right tools. Here I will explain devices that every ghost hunter or paranormal investigator MUST have, if he or she is truly taking the phenomenon as real or as a business, and not as a joke.
1. Voice Recorder: It doesn't matter if you use a standard tape recorder or one of the new digital recorders, what does matter is the quality and the ability to use an external microphone. Try to get one that is of good quality, but make sure you get one that has a plug in microphone with a cable or cord so the end of the microphone is away from the recorder. The small all-in-one recorders that have the built in microphones, pick up a lot of the hiss and gear noises of the recorders when they are in record mode. A recorder is a necessity for recording EVP's. EVP's also called (electronic voice phenomenom) are a very unique and sometimes frightening thing that is often encountered in a haunted area. What an EVP is, is a voice or other communication that is heard on a tape or digital recorder during playback, that was not heard when the recorder was recording.
2. Film Camera: Do NOT use a digital camera because the photo will always be questioned as being fake, no matter how good it is, where if you use a film camera, you at least have the negatives as some proof. And unless you buy a high mega-pixel digital camera, the photo quality will be less than a nice cheap 35mm film camera.
3. Camcorder: A camera is good, but a camcorder is even better. Get one that uses a tape, either the small cassettes or one of the older models that use the full sized VHS tapes. I bought two of these older camcorders for under $75 each recently.
4. Thermal Imaging scopes or goggles: These capture the upper portion of the infrared light spectrum, which is emitted as heat by objects instead of simply reflected as light. Hotter objects, such as warm bodies, emit more of this light than cooler objects like trees or buildings. Often spirits that manifest have a temperature in their form that stands out in this spectrum, especially if a spirit is present in a cold location.
5. Night Vision scopes or goggles: These little devices have become very cheap, a nice night vision scope can now be purchased easily for under $200. They work by collecting the tiny amounts of light, including the lower portion of the infrared light spectrum, that are present but may be imperceptible to our eyes, and amplifying it to the point that we can easily observe the image.
6. Flashlight: Take along two small pocket ones for each team member. What can be worse then exploring a dark cellar or underground area, and having the lights or another flashlight fail.
7. Walkie Talkies: If you have a group of team members, and you are investigating a large location, walkie talkies are not just a good thing to have, but they can be a life saver at times.
8. Notebook and pencils: Often any electronic, electrical or other devices may fail in a haunted location, so it's very wise to carry along a small notebook and some pencils in case you need to keep some valuable notes.
9. Thermal Scanner: A hand held thermal scanner (thermometer) uses infrared technology to measure the surface temperature of material without touching it. You simply point at your target, pull the trigger and read the temperature on the lit LCD display.
One of the best tools I recommend, is also the cheapest, under $10 U.S. It is a computer software program that is made just for Ghost Hunting and Paranormal Investigations. It's called 'Ghost Hunter'. The software is for anyone who explores haunted houses or locations where any type of paranormal activity is occurring. Whether you are trying to gather evidence of the haunting or other proof, this software can help make the job more organized and easier.
Ghost Hunter software was made as a scientific tool, for paranormal researchers that believe in spirits, demons, or ghosts. Researchers can easily keep track of vital data gathered at the haunted locations. With this software you can know at a glance such vital information as; the date and times of the activity, location info, GPS data, telephone numbers, notes, sounds heard, odors detected, temperature anomalies, and more.
You can use the software on location during the investigation with any WINDOWS based notebook Computer or back at home or in the office after the investigation.
For more information and the ability to download and try a free demo version of the 'Ghost Hunter' software, please visit the publishers website: http://www.rb59.com/ghosth
By Robert W. Benjamin
Source
Friday, December 11, 2009
Ghost Hunting Should Be Professional
Ghost Hunting can be very fun and yet at times it can be one of the most terrifying things you will probably ever do in your life.
The following are just a few of the things folks have encountered during ghost hunting or paranormal investigations:
1. Smells: These smells can seem to come from no where, and develop instantly and disappear just as fast. The smells are often putrid like rotted meat, or like fresh bowel movements, and are very overpowering at times.
2. Apparitions: Some spirits appear as barely visible forms, while some become as solid and normal looking as a living person.
3. Clouds - Mists - Masses: Often fleeting shadows, things seen out of the corners of the eyes are encountered. Or a rolling black mass may appear, sometimes a whispy form like smoke is seen.
4. Disembodied voices: These are often heard and at times they can be very scary. Imagine being in a darkened room, and having something invisible whisper or even shout in your ear. These are not EVP's, but normal sounding speech.
5. Physical Sensations - Some ghost hunters have been touched, pinched, slapped, had their hair pulled, been scratched or even bitten by invisible entities.
6. Rappings - Scratching - and Knockings: In walls, ceilings and floors. strange sounds and noises are often heard in haunted locations, as well as hearing what sounds like objects being dropped, or moved in nearby rooms.
7. Cold spots: Sometimes just before a spirit manifests they draw energy from the surroundings. Often a spot in one area of a room will suddenly become very cold. For example the temperature thoughout a room may average 75 degrees but in one corner or area, the temperature will suddenly plummet to 50 degrees or even colder. This is a sure sign of a spirits presence or a soon manifestation.
8. Power drains and equipment malfunctions: Like cold spots, when a spirit is drawing energy needed to become solid or more visible, they will often draw-in nearby energy, this energy can also come from batteries in video camers, and other devices. Often cameras, tape recorders, even lights will suddenly go haywire or stop working all together when a spirit is present.
Almost everyone that does ghost hunting believes that there are two types of spirits, human and in-human, the latter are also called demons. I am a born again christian and believe the bible 100%. From my beliefs in the bible as factual. I believe there is only one type of spirit involved in any haunting, and these are in-human or demons.
According to the bible, when we are dead our spirits or souls are present with God, from there we are either granted a life of love and peace in heaven with the creator and the other believers, or we are cast into hell forever, with no chance of escape. The bible also says there is a huge chasm or void that separates the living from the dead, they cannot cross over or communicate with each other. There are other statements in the bible that clearly says that ghosts can not be the spirits or souls of people who have died.
Whether the creatures involved in a haunting are spirits of dead humans or whether they are demons, if one is trying to prove that they truly exist or if you are trying to disprove a haunting, then you must do paranormal investigations as a professional.
A professional Ghost Hunter or paranormal investigator needs to have the right tools. Here I will explain devices that every ghost hunter or paranormal investigator MUST have, if he or she is truly taking the phenomenon as real or as a business, and not as a joke.
1. Voice Recorder: It doesn't matter if you use a standard tape recorder or one of the new digital recorders, what does matter is the quality and the ability to use an external microphone. Try to get one that is of good quality, but make sure you get one that has a plug in microphone with a cable or cord so the end of the microphone is away from the recorder. The small all-in-one recorders that have the built in microphones, pick up a lot of the hiss and gear noises of the recorders when they are in record mode. A recorder is a necessity for recording EVP's. EVP's also called (electronic voice phenomenom) are a very unique and sometimes frightening thing that is often encountered in a haunted area. What an EVP is, is a voice or other communication that is heard on a tape or digital recorder during playback, that was not heard when the recorder was recording.
2. Film Camera: Do NOT use a digital camera because the photo will always be questioned as being fake, no matter how good it is, where if you use a film camera, you at least have the negatives as some proof. And unless you buy a high mega-pixel digital camera, the photo quality will be less than a nice cheap 35mm film camera.
3. Camcorder: A camera is good, but a camcorder is even better. Get one that uses a tape, either the small cassettes or one of the older models that use the full sized VHS tapes. I bought two of these older camcorders for under $75 each recently.
4. Thermal Imaging scopes or goggles: These capture the upper portion of the infrared light spectrum, which is emitted as heat by objects instead of simply reflected as light. Hotter objects, such as warm bodies, emit more of this light than cooler objects like trees or buildings. Often spirits that manifest have a temperature in their form that stands out in this spectrum, especially if a spirit is present in a cold location.
5. Night Vision scopes or goggles: These little devices have become very cheap, a nice night vision scope can now be purchased easily for under $200. They work by collecting the tiny amounts of light, including the lower portion of the infrared light spectrum, that are present but may be imperceptible to our eyes, and amplifying it to the point that we can easily observe the image.
6. Flashlight: Take along two small pocket ones for each team member. What can be worse then exploring a dark cellar or underground area, and having the lights or another flashlight fail.
7. Walkie Talkies: If you have a group of team members, and you are investigating a large location, walkie talkies are not just a good thing to have, but they can be a life saver at times.
8. Notebook and pencils: Often any electronic, electrical or other devices may fail in a haunted location, so it's very wise to carry along a small notebook and some pencils in case you need to keep some valuable notes.
9. Thermal Scanner: A hand held thermal scanner (thermometer) uses infrared technology to measure the surface temperature of material without touching it. You simply point at your target, pull the trigger and read the temperature on the lit LCD display.
One of the best tools I recommend, is also the cheapest, under $10 U.S. It is a computer software program that is made just for Ghost Hunting and Paranormal Investigations. It's called 'Ghost Hunter'. The software is for anyone who explores haunted houses or locations where any type of paranormal activity is occurring. Whether you are trying to gather evidence of the haunting or other proof, this software can help make the job more organized and easier.
Ghost Hunter software was made as a scientific tool, for paranormal researchers that believe in spirits, demons, or ghosts. Researchers can easily keep track of vital data gathered at the haunted locations. With this software you can know at a glance such vital information as; the date and times of the activity, location info, GPS data, telephone numbers, notes, sounds heard, odors detected, temperature anomalies, and more.
You can use the software on location during the investigation with any WINDOWS based notebook Computer or back at home or in the office after the investigation.
For more information and the ability to download and try a free demo version of the 'Ghost Hunter' software, please visit the publishers website: http://www.rb59.com/ghosth
By Robert W. Benjamin
Source
The following are just a few of the things folks have encountered during ghost hunting or paranormal investigations:
1. Smells: These smells can seem to come from no where, and develop instantly and disappear just as fast. The smells are often putrid like rotted meat, or like fresh bowel movements, and are very overpowering at times.
2. Apparitions: Some spirits appear as barely visible forms, while some become as solid and normal looking as a living person.
3. Clouds - Mists - Masses: Often fleeting shadows, things seen out of the corners of the eyes are encountered. Or a rolling black mass may appear, sometimes a whispy form like smoke is seen.
4. Disembodied voices: These are often heard and at times they can be very scary. Imagine being in a darkened room, and having something invisible whisper or even shout in your ear. These are not EVP's, but normal sounding speech.
5. Physical Sensations - Some ghost hunters have been touched, pinched, slapped, had their hair pulled, been scratched or even bitten by invisible entities.
6. Rappings - Scratching - and Knockings: In walls, ceilings and floors. strange sounds and noises are often heard in haunted locations, as well as hearing what sounds like objects being dropped, or moved in nearby rooms.
7. Cold spots: Sometimes just before a spirit manifests they draw energy from the surroundings. Often a spot in one area of a room will suddenly become very cold. For example the temperature thoughout a room may average 75 degrees but in one corner or area, the temperature will suddenly plummet to 50 degrees or even colder. This is a sure sign of a spirits presence or a soon manifestation.
8. Power drains and equipment malfunctions: Like cold spots, when a spirit is drawing energy needed to become solid or more visible, they will often draw-in nearby energy, this energy can also come from batteries in video camers, and other devices. Often cameras, tape recorders, even lights will suddenly go haywire or stop working all together when a spirit is present.
Almost everyone that does ghost hunting believes that there are two types of spirits, human and in-human, the latter are also called demons. I am a born again christian and believe the bible 100%. From my beliefs in the bible as factual. I believe there is only one type of spirit involved in any haunting, and these are in-human or demons.
According to the bible, when we are dead our spirits or souls are present with God, from there we are either granted a life of love and peace in heaven with the creator and the other believers, or we are cast into hell forever, with no chance of escape. The bible also says there is a huge chasm or void that separates the living from the dead, they cannot cross over or communicate with each other. There are other statements in the bible that clearly says that ghosts can not be the spirits or souls of people who have died.
Whether the creatures involved in a haunting are spirits of dead humans or whether they are demons, if one is trying to prove that they truly exist or if you are trying to disprove a haunting, then you must do paranormal investigations as a professional.
A professional Ghost Hunter or paranormal investigator needs to have the right tools. Here I will explain devices that every ghost hunter or paranormal investigator MUST have, if he or she is truly taking the phenomenon as real or as a business, and not as a joke.
1. Voice Recorder: It doesn't matter if you use a standard tape recorder or one of the new digital recorders, what does matter is the quality and the ability to use an external microphone. Try to get one that is of good quality, but make sure you get one that has a plug in microphone with a cable or cord so the end of the microphone is away from the recorder. The small all-in-one recorders that have the built in microphones, pick up a lot of the hiss and gear noises of the recorders when they are in record mode. A recorder is a necessity for recording EVP's. EVP's also called (electronic voice phenomenom) are a very unique and sometimes frightening thing that is often encountered in a haunted area. What an EVP is, is a voice or other communication that is heard on a tape or digital recorder during playback, that was not heard when the recorder was recording.
2. Film Camera: Do NOT use a digital camera because the photo will always be questioned as being fake, no matter how good it is, where if you use a film camera, you at least have the negatives as some proof. And unless you buy a high mega-pixel digital camera, the photo quality will be less than a nice cheap 35mm film camera.
3. Camcorder: A camera is good, but a camcorder is even better. Get one that uses a tape, either the small cassettes or one of the older models that use the full sized VHS tapes. I bought two of these older camcorders for under $75 each recently.
4. Thermal Imaging scopes or goggles: These capture the upper portion of the infrared light spectrum, which is emitted as heat by objects instead of simply reflected as light. Hotter objects, such as warm bodies, emit more of this light than cooler objects like trees or buildings. Often spirits that manifest have a temperature in their form that stands out in this spectrum, especially if a spirit is present in a cold location.
5. Night Vision scopes or goggles: These little devices have become very cheap, a nice night vision scope can now be purchased easily for under $200. They work by collecting the tiny amounts of light, including the lower portion of the infrared light spectrum, that are present but may be imperceptible to our eyes, and amplifying it to the point that we can easily observe the image.
6. Flashlight: Take along two small pocket ones for each team member. What can be worse then exploring a dark cellar or underground area, and having the lights or another flashlight fail.
7. Walkie Talkies: If you have a group of team members, and you are investigating a large location, walkie talkies are not just a good thing to have, but they can be a life saver at times.
8. Notebook and pencils: Often any electronic, electrical or other devices may fail in a haunted location, so it's very wise to carry along a small notebook and some pencils in case you need to keep some valuable notes.
9. Thermal Scanner: A hand held thermal scanner (thermometer) uses infrared technology to measure the surface temperature of material without touching it. You simply point at your target, pull the trigger and read the temperature on the lit LCD display.
One of the best tools I recommend, is also the cheapest, under $10 U.S. It is a computer software program that is made just for Ghost Hunting and Paranormal Investigations. It's called 'Ghost Hunter'. The software is for anyone who explores haunted houses or locations where any type of paranormal activity is occurring. Whether you are trying to gather evidence of the haunting or other proof, this software can help make the job more organized and easier.
Ghost Hunter software was made as a scientific tool, for paranormal researchers that believe in spirits, demons, or ghosts. Researchers can easily keep track of vital data gathered at the haunted locations. With this software you can know at a glance such vital information as; the date and times of the activity, location info, GPS data, telephone numbers, notes, sounds heard, odors detected, temperature anomalies, and more.
You can use the software on location during the investigation with any WINDOWS based notebook Computer or back at home or in the office after the investigation.
For more information and the ability to download and try a free demo version of the 'Ghost Hunter' software, please visit the publishers website: http://www.rb59.com/ghosth
By Robert W. Benjamin
Source
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Ghosts inhabit Lobby of Crockett hotel
The Crockett Hotel
The Crockett Hotel is located at 320 Bonham Street in San Antonio, Texas. It is located on part of the Alamo battlefield. Hundreds of soldiers once stood where the hotel pool and courtyard are now located. The property sold several times over the years, but the hotel was built in 1909 by the International Order of Odd Fellows as a fellowship lodgehall and hotel. A wing was added in 1927. The property has changed ownership several times since then and is currently owned by San Antonio native John Blocker. The hotel has seen several renovations with the last being in 2007.
The ghosts here seem to inhabit the lobby area, the bar, and a few of the guestrooms. The entrance doors seem to open and close on their own. There are faint whispers, cold spots and some unexplained happenings. Some report seeing a man in a dark blue jacket. The air conditioning and electricity seems to have a mind of their own, footsteps are heard in empty rooms and curtains move on their own.
Source
The Crockett Hotel is located at 320 Bonham Street in San Antonio, Texas. It is located on part of the Alamo battlefield. Hundreds of soldiers once stood where the hotel pool and courtyard are now located. The property sold several times over the years, but the hotel was built in 1909 by the International Order of Odd Fellows as a fellowship lodgehall and hotel. A wing was added in 1927. The property has changed ownership several times since then and is currently owned by San Antonio native John Blocker. The hotel has seen several renovations with the last being in 2007.
The ghosts here seem to inhabit the lobby area, the bar, and a few of the guestrooms. The entrance doors seem to open and close on their own. There are faint whispers, cold spots and some unexplained happenings. Some report seeing a man in a dark blue jacket. The air conditioning and electricity seems to have a mind of their own, footsteps are heard in empty rooms and curtains move on their own.
Source
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Ghost of Teddy Roosevelt seen at Menger Hotel
Menger Hotel
The Menger Hotel is located at 204 Alamo Plaza in San Antonio, Texas. The original two-story, 50 room hotel was built of limestone in 1859. Over the years many additions and changes have taken place with restoration being completed in 1992.
The oldest parts of the hotel report gusts of cold air, unexplained voices, knocking sounds, cigar smoke appears in a non-smoking bar, lights turn on and off, doors open and close, and sightings of ghostly figures.
A former security guard reports seeing a man in western attire and a black hat who walked through walls and the elevator would stop on the 3rd floor no matter what button he pushed. A hotel manager at the Menger insists that Teddy Roosevelt's spirit visits there. Maintenance men report doors that open after being locked, hearing musical noises and marching footsteps coming from unoccupied parts of the hotel. Housekeeping has reported seeing a blonde woman dressed in blue 30s or 40s attire sitting in one of the rooms.
The ghost of Sallie White, a chambermaid who worked at the hotel in 1876 and was shot there by her jealous husband is sometimes seen walking around the hotel wearing a floor-length skirt, a bandana around her neck, and a long strand of beads.
The famous ghost guest is Captain Richard King. He is the founder of the famous King Ranch south of San Antonio. Furnishings in the King Suite are the same from when he stayed there. He died at the hotel and his funeral was even held in the front parlor at the hotel.
Guests have reported seeing shot glasses levitate and relocate themselves, ghosts entering or leaving the elevators, televisions that turn off and on by themselves.
Source
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Strange Specters at Emily Morgan Hotel
Emily Morgan HotelThe Emily Morgan Hotel is located at 705 E. Houston Street in San Antonio, Texas.
The Emily Morgan Hotel was once the Medical Arts Building which was constructed in 1924. It is one of the most recognizable buildings in San Antonio. The tower is 13 stories tall and made of reinforced concrete and glazed terra cotta. The Gothic revival influence of the period is quite noticeable in this building. One of the most interesting features are the terra cotta gargoyles that depict various medical ailments such as toothaches, etc.
In 1984, the building was transformed into a AAA Four Diamond boutique hotel.
You May be Wondering "Who Is Emily Morgan"?
Legend has it that Emily, at the age of 20 detained General Santa Anna in his tent while the Texans won a decisive battle in only 18 minutes in a charge against a Mexican camp.
Emily is widely believed to be the inspiration for the well-known song, "The Yellow Rose of Texas."
The 7th and 12th floors seem to be the most active. The 12th floor was where the operations took place when the building was a medical center. Reports of noises, smells of alcohol, and being touched are common on this floor. On the 7th floor witnesses claim to have seen human shapes walking around and then walking through walls or doors. One family staying on the 7th floor reported having everything blast on in their room at 2:30 a.m. Then they saw a shape move through the room and through the wall.
The basement had been used as a morgue and crematory. Voices, footsteps, and orbs are often seen in this area.
The front desk has reported receiving calls that could be traced to the phones in an empty elevator. The elevator has been known to keep going between the sixth and seventh floors with no one in it.
Source
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Did Dracula ever live in Bran Castle?
Bran Castle situated near Bran and in the immediate vicinity of Brasov, is a national monument and landmark in Romania. The fortress is situated on the border between Transylvania and Wallachia, on DN73. Commonly known as “Dracula’s Castle” (although it is one among several locations linked to the Dracula legend, including Poienari Castle and Hunyad Castle), it is marketed as the home of the titular character in Bram Stoker’s Dracula. In 1897 Bram Stoker wrote a terrifying story about Count Dracula. A century after, there are still people who believe in it. Even researchers are trying to find out the truth about Dracula. All are trying to clear the mystery: was there or wasn’t there a vampire in Transylvania? How many of these fabulous stories are legends and how many say the truth? Here is the legend about Dracula. His castle is supposed to be Bran’s Castle since its narrow corridors constitute a mysterious labyrinth of ghostly nooks and secret chambers easy to hide a “vampire”. According to an official of the Bran Castle administration, there will be made certain changes in the castle. A projection hall with the images of the National Film Archives about the history of the royal family and the castle will be arranged. Also, a room dedicated to the costumes of the royal families and a dining-room will be arranged. Further more, in the Round Tower of the castle a luxurious apartment will be made for the tourists that want to spend the night over Bran Castle.
Source
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Shari’s Restaurant Haunted?
By Kathryn Lynch-Morin – The Saginaw News
Over the past 20 years, Shari Smith, owner of Shari’s restaurant in the Old Willard Hillton in Beaver Township, has been convinced.
“I’m one of those people who doesn’t want to believe in ghosts,” Smith said. “But so many strange things have happened.”
Like several times when the alarm company has been called, only to find nothing — and no one — on arrival.
Or the morning Smith arrived to find all of the spices knocked on the floor. Or the time she found a line of sugar leading from the kitchen into the dining room and along the length of the bar. But, she said, no one had been in the building since she left the night before.
“The alarm company tracks everyone going in and out,” she said. “No one else had been in.”
Five years ago, Smith had paranormal experts and a psychic visit her restaurant, 1506 W. Beaver Road.
They rate haunted places on a scale from 1-5, five being the most haunted. The restaurant was rated a four. Smith was told there were at least four ghosts in the building: a blonde woman in a flowing white gown named Sadie; Horace, a blacksmith; and two children who died of scarlet fever.
Built in the 1800s, the building has been a saloon, general store, hotel and jail. Smith said the psychic told her the ghosts in her restaurant did not particularly want to be reunited with loved ones in death.
“They don’t want to leave,” she said of her permanent — and deceased — guests.
Smith said she made an agreement with the ghosts and allowed them to stay on the condition that they didn’t bother her.
Still, they make themselves known.
Sadie is frequently spotted in the kitchen and at the bar.
“Everyone has described the ghost the same,” Smith said. “Even people who don’t know about her.”
She said she has had workers quit because of their encounters with the ghosts. Tenants in the apartments upstairs have reported they thought someone was breaking into the restaurant or their rooms.
Climbing down into the basement where two old jail cells now serve as the restaurant’s wine cellar makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up. It’s damp, dimly lit and eerily alive. Every creak and moan the house releases makes your heart beat a little faster.
Is there something — someone — there?
Aaron Gaertner, executive chef and general manager of Shari’s, explained his encounters with Sadie and the other ghosts.
One night while working alone, a shelf fell on his head while the brackets holding the shelf stayed in place.
“It would have had to have been lifted up and over,” Gaertner said. “It couldn’t have fallen on its own.”
Other nights he has witnessed lights turning on and off. And a few times, he has walked out of the kitchen only to return to the faucet on full-blast.
“I don’t particularly like spending too much time here alone at night,” he said.
One reader, Jbondo said that..Much of what they claim can be explained. Frankly I’ve never had Police find anything in any building I’ve worked in due to an alarm. Most times I tell them to not even come unless I request it as there are so many things that can cause an alarm. A line of sugar, hmmm, little hole in the sugar bag and it’ll draw a nice neat line wherever you carry it. Now, if you’re really busy the odds are good that you wouldn’t even notice.
As for people seeing and describing ghosts, I imagine most patrons are local. People tend to talk to each other. Example: Fred gets drunk at the bar and during that evening Susie tells him about her encounter with a ghost. 2 weeks later Fred claims to have seen a ghost. He describes the same ghost as Susie but says he never heard of the ghost before. Did Fred merely forget that Susie told him about it 2 weeks prior? After all, he was pretty intoxicated at the time.
Another one also agreed...Wonder if the old jail cells are made from limestone. Again with the recorders on site. Do we have any links available for investigative evidence done on this place? Does sound like there are many residuals here. If the place was being haunted and the spirits had been asked to leave, there’s a higher likeliness of their departure. Which leads me to believe that past events are on repeat. Were there any instances of direct contact such as name calling…ok, back tracking…just checked the article again.
Maybe they don’t want to leave because they were their first. Sometimes we just have to cohabitate with the spirits. Like jbondo said, too many factors…
Source
Screams heard at Margam Castle!
For over a hundred years, rumors of hauntings have plagued this ominous, uninhabited castle. Screams can often be heard from outside and sometimes a strange, cold mist seems to bleed through the walls. It is a disturbing chill that seeps to your very bones. Many years ago, the beautiful woman who once owned the castle died suddenly and without explanation. Some people said it was a murder, yet others were convinced she ended her own life. Do you have the nerve to spend a night in this Haunted House? Margam Castle is a Tudor Gothic castle that was built in the mid-1800’s. It has many spectacular features, such as the beautiful winding staircase and an old cistercian Abbey; the castle is located near Port Talbot, South Wales. Because of the history of this castle no one has inhabited this place for over a hundred years! Guests have the option to spend the night until 7AM. If guests wish to stay the whole night they will have to bring their own sleeping bags as there are no beds to sleep in.
Source
13 Haunted Houses on Film
Wow! This was one tough list to compile for this month’s Top 13. The main reason is that a lot of the best ‘haunted house’ movies tend to turn out not to be so haunted after all. One prime example of a film that I wanted very much to place on this list is one of my all time favorite horror films, the little seen, but highly regarded, SESSION 9. It takes place in a decaying, shut down insane asylum, and for most of the movie, we’re led to believe it is haunted—in a way. But the shock ending (and it does shock!) offers a decidedly non-supernatural explanation. Devastating end, but not haunted in the supernatural sense of the word. And, of course, for that same reason, several others of my favs didn’t make it: William Castle’s HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL, Corman’s Poe classic, THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF USHER, etc., etc.
So, clearly our criteria for this list is that it has to be a real haunted house, with spectral happenings that cannot be explained through scientific or human means. And, of course, we tried to stick to earthbound domiciles, or else EVENT HORIZON, one of the most frightening films I’ve ever seen, would clearly have been at the top of the list somewhere.
All the greatest haunted house tales are about history, and every house that holds ghosts within its walls, does so because the people who once called it home have not left it, in effect, they are carrying on with their history. Termed ‘The Bad Place’ by Stephen King, in his landmark nonfiction book DANSE MACABRE, these places seek to be purged of their history, of their badness, or they will devour their inhabitants. And sometimes, The Bad Place ultimately becomes only a reflection for those who look upon it. Sometimes they carry their ghosts with them, and they are the haunted, not the domicile.
In literature, the haunted house is one of the best mirrors which a writer can hold up to his/her characters (see HOUSE OF LEAVES by Mark Danielewski, THE SHINING by Stephen King, and GHOST STORY by Peter Straub for three of the best examples of such ever written). But in film it becomes a bit harder to translate that sort of psychological mirror to the screen.
Below, I think you’ll find some of the best horror films ever made that have achieved that almost impossible task.
And with that being said, we present our list…
13. Paranormal Activity (2009)
A surprise hit, Paranormal Activity became the new record holder for highest grossing indie film (a record previously held by Phantasm, until The Blair Witch Project came along to knock it out o1st place). And is it scary as hell. It’s a truly disturbing story of an ordinary couple who think they might be living in a haunted house and decide to set up cameras to catch activity while their sleeping. Of course, they open a can of nasty supernatural worms by doing so, and soon discover that they aren’t living in Spielberg-land where all the ghosts are just confused Caspers. The end will leave you with nightmares.
12. The Uninvited (1944)
Based on a novel by Dorothy Macardle, UNEASY FREEHOLD, The Uninvited is one of those old Hollywood classics that has elegance, and yet conveys an underlying menace through use of German Expressionistic shadow and light play. Starring a young Ray Milland and Ruth Hussey as brother and sister who buy an enchanting seaside home, this is a quiet horror film. All seems to be perfect for them until they find a locked room that holds its own dark secrets from its new owners. The scares come from well placed cameras and some great acting, by a superior cast.
11. The Innocents (1961)
Based on Henry James’ classic psychological/supernatural thriller, TURN OF THE SCREW, producer/director Jack Clayton catches perfectly the gut-wrenching ambiguity of this house’s haunts. Deborah Carr plays the new, somewhat naïve, governess over two children who become increasingly strange. Are they possessed by the dead? Or is it all her imagination? There are scenes in this film that still have the power to make you recoil. Not in disgust, mind you; but because of well timed scares. If you want a classic to make you appreciate good filmmaking, this is the one.
Read more on ... the black glove
So, clearly our criteria for this list is that it has to be a real haunted house, with spectral happenings that cannot be explained through scientific or human means. And, of course, we tried to stick to earthbound domiciles, or else EVENT HORIZON, one of the most frightening films I’ve ever seen, would clearly have been at the top of the list somewhere.
All the greatest haunted house tales are about history, and every house that holds ghosts within its walls, does so because the people who once called it home have not left it, in effect, they are carrying on with their history. Termed ‘The Bad Place’ by Stephen King, in his landmark nonfiction book DANSE MACABRE, these places seek to be purged of their history, of their badness, or they will devour their inhabitants. And sometimes, The Bad Place ultimately becomes only a reflection for those who look upon it. Sometimes they carry their ghosts with them, and they are the haunted, not the domicile.
In literature, the haunted house is one of the best mirrors which a writer can hold up to his/her characters (see HOUSE OF LEAVES by Mark Danielewski, THE SHINING by Stephen King, and GHOST STORY by Peter Straub for three of the best examples of such ever written). But in film it becomes a bit harder to translate that sort of psychological mirror to the screen.
Below, I think you’ll find some of the best horror films ever made that have achieved that almost impossible task.
And with that being said, we present our list…
13. Paranormal Activity (2009)
A surprise hit, Paranormal Activity became the new record holder for highest grossing indie film (a record previously held by Phantasm, until The Blair Witch Project came along to knock it out o1st place). And is it scary as hell. It’s a truly disturbing story of an ordinary couple who think they might be living in a haunted house and decide to set up cameras to catch activity while their sleeping. Of course, they open a can of nasty supernatural worms by doing so, and soon discover that they aren’t living in Spielberg-land where all the ghosts are just confused Caspers. The end will leave you with nightmares.
12. The Uninvited (1944)
Based on a novel by Dorothy Macardle, UNEASY FREEHOLD, The Uninvited is one of those old Hollywood classics that has elegance, and yet conveys an underlying menace through use of German Expressionistic shadow and light play. Starring a young Ray Milland and Ruth Hussey as brother and sister who buy an enchanting seaside home, this is a quiet horror film. All seems to be perfect for them until they find a locked room that holds its own dark secrets from its new owners. The scares come from well placed cameras and some great acting, by a superior cast.
11. The Innocents (1961)
Based on Henry James’ classic psychological/supernatural thriller, TURN OF THE SCREW, producer/director Jack Clayton catches perfectly the gut-wrenching ambiguity of this house’s haunts. Deborah Carr plays the new, somewhat naïve, governess over two children who become increasingly strange. Are they possessed by the dead? Or is it all her imagination? There are scenes in this film that still have the power to make you recoil. Not in disgust, mind you; but because of well timed scares. If you want a classic to make you appreciate good filmmaking, this is the one.
Read more on ... the black glove
Is this a real London underground haunting? What do you think?
The London Underground is built on countless gravesites and plague pits, and is the site of many human disasters, could this account for the hundreds of reported ghostly sightings?
Source
Friday, December 4, 2009
Cold Spots: Mason House Inn
Cold Spots Ghosts Mason House Inn paranormal
Bentonsport, Iowa - A guest comes down the stairs after a night's rest and approaches the owner of the historic inn. "Did you know this place is haunted?" she asks. The owner smiles, not because she thinks her guest is delusional, but because she's heard it before. And far from being afraid, the guest seems more excited. They're not scary, not malevolent, and not tortured. In fact, in life, the entities liked the place so much, they just didn't want to leave.
There is an old saying among those who believe in the paranormal: Those who don't believe in ghosts just haven't met the right one yet. It doesn't have to be the Hollywood version of a shrieking, blood-soaked monstrosity that's out for revenge that makes believers. In many cases, something as small as a tugged shirt-sleeve or a sudden unexplainable drop in temperature can make a person question their certainty that nothing beyond this life exists. Of course, one of the biggest challenges is the question of where to find a place where experiences of the paranormal sort are more of the norm than not. In Iowa, there is such a place, and as luck would have it, it's a bed and breakfast.
History
Built in 1846 as a hotel for steamboat travelers, the home was first called the "Ashland House." The builder, William Robinson, hired exclusively Mormon builders who took several years to gather the materials. Eleven years after it opened its doors, the hotel was sold to Lewis and Nancy Mason, who re-christened it the Phoenix Hotel. However, their reputation for hospitality was so great that the people of Bentonsport took to calling it just "Mason House." Part of the fame came from Nancy Mason's insistence that every room hold a full cookie jar for weary travelers.
Over the next hundred-fifty-two years, the home saw numerous owners, floods, and remodeling. It also saw more than its fair share of tragedy. During the Civil War, it was used as a small military hospital, where undoubtedly many soldiers, while waiting for transport, died. It was also used, for a time, as a stop on the famous "Underground Railroad." There were also several of the owners who died in the hotel, all of seemingly innocuous circumstances. The hotel even had one strange murder when a drunk guest, referred to by newspaper accounts as "Mr. Knapp," tried to climb into a bed that wasn't his and got a saber through the chest for his confusion.
The hotel remained in the Mason family until 1951 when Fannie Mason Kurtz died of natural causes in front of the fireplace. It was purchased by several families over the next fifty years, all of whom had their own paranormal experiences. In fact, one previous owner, a retired minister named McDermet, told stories of seeing Mary Mason Clark during renovations of the house. He also told of attempting to wallpaper the fifth room, and finding the wallpaper re-stripped every morning until he took the hint. The wallpaper sample book was found open to a certain sample, which he bought and put up, and there were no problems afterword. In 2001, Joy and Chuck Hanson purchased Mason House, and continue to run it as a bed and breakfast.
Ghosts
While Joy Hanson says they have at least five resident ghosts, the experiences of their non-permanent guests show those five are remarkably active, and there may be more. Guests tell the Hanson's of their experiences all the time, and most of them have similar rings to them.
The first ghost that people report seeing is a young boy who stays on the landing. Though his identity is unknown, he appears often, and seems to be something of a trickster. He wears knickers, and appears to be waiting for someone. Nicknamed "George," the boy likes to knock on doors before vanishing. He is also blamed for moving items from one room to another, and for often stealing the pins from alarm clocks to make them ring.
Another presence who appears to guests, but doesn't seem to mean any harm, is described as an old woman in a white night gown who stays on the third floor's south bedroom. She's most often seen standing in the doorway to her room before disappearing. People who stay in the room below hers report hearing a squeaking rocking chair from above, as well as the sounds of many boxes being dropped and footsteps. Strange, considering the room is not occupied (or wasn't at the time) and was used for storage. There was no rocking chair, but the retired minister who used to have his office in the room identified the woman as Mary Mason Clark.
In the dining room, people often get a welcoming feeling that goes well beyond the warmth of the fireplace. According to at least one psychic, it is none other than Fannie Mason Kurtz, the owner who died in front of the fireplace and whose body wasn't discovered for three days. According to the psychic, Fannie is happy in Mason House, and simply doesn't want to leave.
A fourth ghost manifests himself by way of what guests refer to as a feeling of dread. With no knowledge of what happened in one particular room, many guests instinctively know that there was a violent death in its past. It appears the unfortunate Mr. Knapp is still looking for his proper bed. However, he doesn't seem to mind guests of the feminine persuasion, as Hanson's daughter found out when, while making up the bed one day, she felt a hand pat her butt. She spun to confront whoever would be so bold, only to find the room empty.
The fifth apparition seen is one that Mrs. Hanson refers to as "Mr. Foggybody," though she believes it may be the ghost of former manager Francis O. Clark. Described as a floating head with shocking white hair, atop a body of smoke, he's been sighted by employees and guests alike. Though Francis Clark didn't die in the hotel, he managed it for several years, and his body was laid out in the hotel parlor when he died.
In addition, there are a myriad of phenomena that typify a haunted house, though most don't have them all in one place. Phantom footsteps, cold spots, opening and closing doors and windows, are all par for the course at Mason House.
Read more...Dread Central
Will Lizzie again weild her axe atLizzie Borden Bed and Breakfast?
The Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast is located in the home where murders occurred. Visitors can tour the home and murder scenes, and guests may spend the night in the house. In 1892, Andrew Borden and his wife, Abby, were brutally murdered by someone wielding an axe. Although ultimately acquitted of the crime, Borden’s youngest daughter, Lizzie, never regained her precrime innocence, and many folks in Fall River (and around the country) remained convinced that she got away with murder. Today, the house in which the Bordens lived and died is a city landmark, a museum, and a bed and breakfast. Although Lizzie Borden was acquitted, no one else was ever arrested or tried, and she has remained notorious in American folklore. Dispute over the identity of the killer or killers continues to this day.
Now, this is one way to be an entrepreneur. Make a living from ghosts!
Source
Voodoo Queens casts a curse at Manchac Swamp!
The Manchac Swamp, also known as the “haunted swamp,” near New Orleans is a Southern Gothic fan’s dream. An imprisoned voodoo queen is said to have cast a curse on these watery surroundings around the turn of the last century, resulting in the disappearance of three hamlets in a hurricane in 1915. This swamp is a wilderness jewel. Sims’s photographs and John Kemp’s text have made timeless the people and place of Manchac Swamp. The Manchac Swamp Bridge is a bridge in the US state of Louisiana. With a total length of 22.80 miles (36.69 km) it is the third longest bridge in the world by total length (see List of bridges by length). The bridge carries Interstate 55 over the Manchac Swamp in Louisiana, and represents one-third of the highway’s approximately 66 miles in Louisiana. Torchlit nighttime boat tours are offered by the Old River Plantation Adventure. But beware: As anyone who has spent a night in the wild can tell you, nature can be anything but gentle, and the staring red-eyed alligators can give you a real fright as they watch your boat cruise slowly by.
source
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Haunted Places in Wisconsin
Under the watchful eye of goddesses, angels and shrouded mourners, visitors to the now 200-acre Forest Home Cemetery in Milwaukee wind their way through the undulating landscape. The cemetery's original 72 acres were established in 1850 on a site known to be a former American Indian village and burial mound. Some have said the hill adjacent to the reflecting pond on the north side of the cemetery has caused them to feel sick and fearful after walking upon it. One visitor reported visions of splintered coffins and shredded corpses, followed by the onset of headaches and bloodshot eyes.
Corey Schjoth/for The Wausau Daily Herald
Resting near the shores of Lake Superior, Fairlawn Mansion was built for industrialist and Superior's second mayor Martin Pattison and his family in 1890. The 42-room mansion was designed in the Queen Anne Victorian style that was popular at the time. After Pattison's death in 1918, Martin's wife Grace donated the mansion to be used as an orphanage. Later purchased in 1963 by the City of Superior for $12,500 in hopes of preserving a part of the town's history. Visitors taking tours have reported seeing a woman dressed in period clothing helping them find displays then vanishing. Ghosts of two children are reported to be seen and heard playing near the swimming pool in the basement.
During the time when Native Americans occupied the hill where the Scott Mansion rests now a curse was put upon the land as revenge for the death of the chief's daughter who fur traders at the time called Jenny. According to legend she either died of shame by her own hand or was killed because she was pregnant with a fur trader's child. In 1884 Scott mansion was being constructed for Thomas Blythe Scott who died before the house was finished. His widow, Anna, died the following year. Their son, Walter, sold the mansion, but died ten years later from being stabbed with a letter opener after an argument. The Scotts never lived in the mansion. Ever since that time any one who has owned the house has met untimely death. Corey Schjoth/for The Wausau Daily Herald
For more of this article visit... Central Wisconsin Hub
Corey Schjoth/for The Wausau Daily Herald
Resting near the shores of Lake Superior, Fairlawn Mansion was built for industrialist and Superior's second mayor Martin Pattison and his family in 1890. The 42-room mansion was designed in the Queen Anne Victorian style that was popular at the time. After Pattison's death in 1918, Martin's wife Grace donated the mansion to be used as an orphanage. Later purchased in 1963 by the City of Superior for $12,500 in hopes of preserving a part of the town's history. Visitors taking tours have reported seeing a woman dressed in period clothing helping them find displays then vanishing. Ghosts of two children are reported to be seen and heard playing near the swimming pool in the basement.
During the time when Native Americans occupied the hill where the Scott Mansion rests now a curse was put upon the land as revenge for the death of the chief's daughter who fur traders at the time called Jenny. According to legend she either died of shame by her own hand or was killed because she was pregnant with a fur trader's child. In 1884 Scott mansion was being constructed for Thomas Blythe Scott who died before the house was finished. His widow, Anna, died the following year. Their son, Walter, sold the mansion, but died ten years later from being stabbed with a letter opener after an argument. The Scotts never lived in the mansion. Ever since that time any one who has owned the house has met untimely death. Corey Schjoth/for The Wausau Daily Herald
For more of this article visit... Central Wisconsin Hub
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
The World's Most Haunted Places
Many have been able to unearth the most haunted places in the world. The Colosseum of Rome is listed as one of them.
This ancient monument is definitely a symbol of the mighty Roman Empire but it was also the place where thousands met their doom. Gladiators were forced to fight until their deaths to entertain Caesar, the emperor of Rome at that time. Sadly enough, this cruel and barbaric act continued over a period of 500 years.
It is said that ghosts have been sighted in the Colosseum and sounds of swords clashing, loud weeping and even the sounds of tigers and lions have been heard too.
Another spooky site is the ‘Auschwitz Concentration Camp’. This is a place where happiness ceases to exist that even birds refuse to sing in this death camp. About four million people, mostly Jews, were massacred here during World War II under the command of the Nazis. Most were killed in gas chambers using the highly poisonous cyanide-based insecticide, Zyklon B. Others were starved to death and used for cruel medical experiments. Needless to say, visitors have sighted ghostly apparitions in the camps many times over.
The White House is also among these haunted places. It seems that several presidents and first ladies of late refuse to vacate the building. Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, is the most frequently sighted ghost in the White House. Many have reported seeing him around the residence especially in the Oval Office. Benjamin Harrison, the 23rd president, also refuses to leave and is often seen rummaging around the attic. No one knows what he is looking for. Andrew Jackson, the 7th president has also made several appearances in his former bedroom in the White House while former first lady Abigail Adams has been sighted floating through the hallways.
It is believed that spirits linger on in our world if they fail to complete any ‘unfinished business’ when they were alive.
In Paris, people tend to be unaware of the shocking events that took place in this magnificent city during its grand remodeling in the1860s, when the ‘Catacombs of Paris’ were re-constructed to support the expansive housing developments and massive boulevards that now define the metropolis.
Underneath the beautiful façade of the city is a structural support system built of human bones that houses one of the largest mass tombs in the world. Millions of corpses were quietly dug and their remains deposited along the walls of the dark and uncanny passageways lying beneath the city grounds.
The catacombs have become a huge hit amongst tourists who venture to the underground tombs to catch a glimpse of one of the goriest sights in the world. The silence here is indeed deafening as visitors frequently sight ghostly apparitions along the passageways sometimes following the tour groups around.
Raynham Hall located in Norfolk, England is also one of the most famous haunted places in the world due to its well-known ghost figure, ‘The Brown Lady’, who was captured on film in 1936 floating up the staircase and is said to be one of the most authentic ghost pictures ever taken. It has a long history of sightings, reports and strange phenomena stretching back to over 250 years. People residing in this building have encountered many strange happenings.
Among the most famous incident reported was in the early 1800’s, when George IV stayed at the house. He spent the night in the state bedroom, but was awoken to see a woman dressed in brown standing at his bedside. The woman was deathly pale, and scared him out of his wits. Another visitor, Colonel Loftus, recalled encountering the ghost twice on Christmas in 1835.
Another site famous for its ‘paranormal’ entities is the Tower of London. The history in this place depicts both the bloody and cruel acts leading to the torture, execution and even murder of countless people among which, include some of the most well-known individuals that helped shape England’s history. They were violently interrogated, tortured and eventually sentenced without a trial. Most were beheaded as this was a common form of execution during the Medieval and Renaissance England times.
This would explain why ghostly apparitions are sighted in a headless state. Visitors and guards have reported hearing the rattling of chains and desperate cries of prisoners inside the towers.
Some of the famous individuals that succumbed to these cruel acts were Anne Boleyn, the Queen of England who was beheaded in 1536 after being falsely accused of adultery, incest and treason, Lady Jane Grey is another commonly sighted ghost and she too was beheaded in 1553. Many spiritual ‘entities’ have been spotted by those who visit the towers and obviously, clairvoyant activities commonly occur in this place.
The never-ending parables of ghostly encounters and experiences will always remain part of our world. However, it is not an issue to toy around with. Despite our various beliefs, these stories were carried down from generations to generations for a reason and I’m sure it’s more that just a bedtime story to scare the kids.
Source
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Whaley House in San Diego California
Called the Most-Haunted House by the Travel Channel’s America’s Most Haunted, the Whaley House was used in many capacities: as the home of Thomas Whaley (one of San Diego’s settlers, who built it in 1857), and later as a courthouse, store and theater. The house was built atop the execution site of a thief, whose footsteps Whaley reported hearing after moving in. Whaley’s daughter later killed herself in the house after being abandoned by her husband. Though her ghost hasn’t been spotted, both of her parents’ have. A girl sometimes found in the dining room is thought to be a playmate of Whaley’s children who snapped her neck on a clothesline. A parapsychologist once saw a small dog bounding down the hallway; the Whaleys, unsurprisingly, owned a terrier, Dolly. Visit WhaleyHouse.org for more information.
There are some human beings who are dimly aware of their own deaths, yet have chosen to stay on in what used to be their homes, to be close to surroundings they once held dear. --Hans Holzer
Few houses in San Diego are as historically important as the Whaley House. In addition to being the Whaley Family home, it housed a granary, the County Court House, San Diego's first commercial theater, various businesses including Thomas Whaley's own general store, a ballroom, a billiard hall, school, and polling place. Significant events, such as the siezure of the court documents and records in 1871, and the suicide of Violet Whaley in 1885 profoundly affected Thomas and Anna Whaley. These events, as well as the hangings which occurred on the property before the house was constructed, have suffused the Whaley House with an air of mystery and added to its reputation as something more than just California State Historic Landmark #65.
According to the Travel Channel's America's Most Haunted, the house is the number one most haunted house in the United States. The alleged hauntings of the Whaley House have been reported on numerous other television programs and been written up in countless publications and books since the house first opened as a museum in 1960. Although we cannot state positively that the Whaley House is really haunted, the voluminous documentation of paranormal occurances at the site makes a compelling case. But, if there are ghosts at the Whaley House, who are they and why are they here?
The earliest documented ghost at the Whaley House is "Yankee Jim." James (aka Santiago) Robinson was convicted of attempted grand larceny in San Diego in 1852, and hanged on a gallows off the back of a wagon on the site where the house now stands. The local newspaper reported that he "kept his feet in the wagon as long as possible, but was finally pulled off. He swung back and forth like a pendulum until he strangled to death." Although Thomas Whaley had been a spectator at the execution, he did not let it disuade him from buying the property a few years later and building a home for his family there. According to the San Diego Union, "soon after the couple and their children moved in, heavy footsteps were heard moving about the house. Whaley described them as sounding as though they were made by the boots of a large man. Finally he came to the conclusion that these unexplained footfalls were made by Yankee Jim Robinson." Another source states that Lillian Whaley, the Whaleys' youngest daughter who lived in the house until 1953, "had been convinced the ghost of "Yankee Jim" haunted the Old House." A visitor to the museum in 1962 mentioned that "the ghost had driven her family from their visit there more than 60 years [earlier], her mother was unnerved by the phantom walking noise and the strange way the windows unlatched and flew up."
Many visitors to the house have reported encountering Thomas Whaley himself. The late June Reading, former curator of the museum, said, "We had a little girl perhaps 5 or 6 years old who waved to a man she said was standing in the parlor. We couldn't see him. But often children's sensitivity is greater than an adult's." However, many adults have reported seeing the apparition of Mr. Whaley, usually on the upper landing. One said he was "clad in frock coat and pantaloons, the face turned away from her, so she could not make it out. Suddenly it faded away."
The specter of Anna Whaley has also been reported, usually in the downstairs rooms or in the garden. In 1964, Mrs. Whaley's floating, drifting spirit appeared to [television personality Regis] Philbin. "All of a sudden I noticed something on the wall," Philbin reported. "There was something filmy white, it looked like an apparition of some kind, I got so excited I couldn't restrain myself! I flipped on the [flash]light and nothing was there but a portrait of Anna Whaley, the long-dead mistress of the house."
Other visitors have described seeing or sensing the presence of a woman in the courtroom. "I see a small figure of a woman," one visitor said, "who has a swarthy complexion. She is wearing a long full skirt, reaching to the floor. The skirt appears to be a calico or gingham, small print. She has a kind of cap on her head, dark hair and eyes and she is wearing gold hoops in her pierced ears. She seems to stay in this room, lives here, I gather." None of the Whaleys fit this description, but the house was rented out to numerous tenants over the years. Perhaps the mysterious woman in the courtroom was one of these.
Another presence reported by visitors and docents is that of a young girl, who is usually found in the dining room. Psychic Sybil Leek encountered this spirit during a visit in the 1960s. "It was a long-haired girl," Sybil said. "She was very quick, you know, in a longish dress. She went to the table in this room and I went to the chair." Urban legend has it that this is the ghost of a playmate of the Whaley children who accidentally broke her neck on a low-hanging clothesline in the backyard, and whose name was either Annabel or Carrie Washburn. There are no historic records of any child dying this way at the Whaley House; nor is there record of any family named Washburn residing in San Diego at the time. It is believed that the legend was started by a one-time employee of the Whaley House, in an effort to add to the house's mystique.
Even animals aren't left out of the singular occurances. A parapsychologist reported he saw a spotted dog, like a fox terrier, that ran down the hall with his ears flapping and into the dining room. The dog, he said, was an apparition. When they lived in the house, the Whaley's owned a terrier named Dolly Varden.
The Whaley House stands silently watching over San Diego Avenue as it has done for a century and a half. Every day visitors come from around the world to tour the historic museum. It contains so much history within its walls, that even the non-believer will enjoy the tour. For believers and sceptics alike, the house draws them back time and again, in search of those elusive ghosts. As Regis Philbin once said, "You know a lot of people pooh-pooh it because they can't see it. But there was something going on in that house."
Source
Monday, November 2, 2009
Jerome Grand Hotel in Jerome, Arizona
When the United Verde Hospital opened in 1927, it was one of the most modern medical facilities. Less than 30 years later, the mines in Jerome, Arizona, closed; the town’s population dwindled to 100; and the hospital closed as well. It stood abandoned until 1994, though a woman in white was often spotted on its balcony, and the town’s residents heard cries coming from the building. In 1997 it reopened as the Jerome Grand Hotel. The woman in white still makes appearances, as does the ghost of Claude Harvey, a hospital employee who was found in the elevator shaft in 1935. Employees report that lights turn on and off on their own, doors open when no one’s around and wind whips through rooms with closed windows. Visit JeromeGrandHotel.com for more information
Source
Sunday, November 1, 2009
The Haunting of McRaven House
McRaven House in Vicksburg, Mississippi. It's been called the most haunted house in the state
I was there in 2000. We had a new tour guide who was not well versed in the hauntings portion of the history, so I was not prepared for the things we experienced. Our then 23 month old daughter was a perfectly happy visitor until we went into the old kitchen area. SHe would cry , then as soon as we stepped out, she would quiet. We never did find out what she was afraid of. -Clikky76
See and experience McRaven House...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vriAXEpMXAg
I was there in 2000. We had a new tour guide who was not well versed in the hauntings portion of the history, so I was not prepared for the things we experienced. Our then 23 month old daughter was a perfectly happy visitor until we went into the old kitchen area. SHe would cry , then as soon as we stepped out, she would quiet. We never did find out what she was afraid of. -Clikky76
See and experience McRaven House...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vriAXEpMXAg
Saturday, October 31, 2009
The Beauregard - Keyes House
Location:
Can be found across from the Convent of Ursula in the French Quarter.
Address: 1113 Charles Street, New Orleans, Louisiana.
History:
This grand mansion, built in 1812, is a strong candidate for being the most haunted house in New Orleans. A General Pierre Gustave Toutant de Beauregard lived in this house until 1869. General Beauregard was the commanding officer of the southern troops at the bloody battle at Shiloh.
* At 2:00 in the morning, on foggy, moonlit nights, General Beauregard and his troops materialize out of the wood paneled walls along the hallway near the ballroom. The living are treated to the clattering footsteps of his entire phantom troops. All the soldier apparitions and the General appear in full Confederate dress uniform, and then slowly turn bloody and tattered, as if they are revisiting their bloody battle.
* Also, an apparition fiddler player and dancing entities have their own dance party in the ballroom, complete with fiddle music, perhaps reenacting a happier time.
Source
Friday, October 30, 2009
The St. Louis Cathedral Basilica
ADDRESS:
615 Pere Antoine Alley, New Orleans, Louisiana.
LOCATION:
The St. Louis Cathedral Basilica can be found near the corner of Peron Antone Alley and Chartres Street, directly across from Jackson Square.
DESCRIPTION:
This beautiful 1850 Cathedral Basilica is the landmark structure of New Orleans, with its two side steeples and central bell tower with its steeple. It is designed inside along the lines of traditional large churches of its time, with a central main altar, two side alters, a beautiful pipe organ, that has recently been rebuilt due to water damage from Katrina, a vestibule and other statues of importance, breathtaking ceilings and lovely decor. The lovely Cathedral Garden can be found behind the Cathedral-Basilica, on Royale Street.
HISTORY:
On this plot of land, there have been 4 churches, built to serve the spiritual and physical needs of the people of New Orleans. The first structure arose in 1718, a crude wooden structure, a temporary solution for a people really in need of spiritual teaching. The second church was a proper building of brick and timber, which served the people well, from 1727 until it was burned to the ground during the horrible fire of 1788, which destroyed most of the French Quarter. But not to worry, the Spanish built a glorious cathedral, which was finished in 1794, and declared a cathedral in 1793 by Pope Pius. While the two side rounded steeples were in this original building, the central bell tower was commissioned in 1819, designed by well-known architect, Ben Henry Latrobe, who also designed the White House. The bell and original clock came all the way from Paris.
By 1849, a larger cathedral was needed for a growing population. During this 1850 ambitious renovation, the central tower collapsed, causing the whole cathedral to be redone, loosing much of the original Spanish architecture. However, the new design was solid and beautiful, creating a house of worship that has endured over 150 years!
This solid, beautiful 1850 cathedral was upgraded to a basilica in 1964, by John Paul 11.
HISTORY OF MANIFESTATIONS:
St. Louis Cathedral Basilica is considered by many to be one of the most haunted buildings in New Orleans. It has long been the center of spiritual worship of God for the people of New Orleans, and has been blessed with some dedicated people and priests who have served the Lord with fervent dedication in ministry.
Story of Pere Dagobert and the slain men.
The trouble began in 1764, when the King of France quietly gave the colony of New Orleans and his Louisiana property to the King of Spain in The Treaty of Fountainbleu, neglecting to tell his Creole subjects in New Orleans. Imagine the alarm when the Spaniards arrived in 1766, took down the French flag and replaced it with a Spanish one. thinking that they were being invaded, the people got together, and formed an army, led by 6 prominent, Creole gentlemen. The Spanish at the end of the skirmish left in haste, escaping to Cuba. In 1769, a fleet of 24 Spanish ships carrying battle-ready troops and a fiery new governor of Irish decent, Don Alejandro O'Reily, retook New Orleans. The new governor had his troops chase down the 6 leaders of the rebellion, and shot them without due process of law, leaving their bodies in front of the church.
The new governor forbade anyone from moving the bodies for burial, but decreed that they were to be left to rot in front of the church, to teach everyone a lesson. Anyone caught moving the remains would suffer the same fate. This was abhorrent not only to the residents and Pere Dagobert, but also the Spanish, who also were Catholics.
The beloved Pere Dagobert visited this arrogant, merciless governor twice, pleading to be allowed to give these men a proper burial. However, the governor refused him both times, and threatened to shoot Pere Dagobert if he came back again to ask for the bodies.
Pere Dagobert knew what he had to do, and he wasn't afraid. During a big storm, Pere Dagobert gathered all the families, had the remains put into pine boxes, led a funeral, and sang boldly the mass, in his clear, distinctive voice. He led the procession down to St.Peter's cemetery, singing all the way, where the remains were buried in unmarked graves. No one stopped them. While Pere Dagobert was replaced by the new Spanish monk, Pere Antoine, brought over from Spain in 1769, Dagobert lived until he died of natural causes. He was buried under the main altar.
The graves of the 6 men were never marked, and eventually, the cemetery was closed, and other buildings were constructed on top of it. Hopefully an attempt was made to move most the remains, but unmarked graves can't be found easily. Throughout the years, bones have been dug up inadvertently during construction projects. Uh Oh!
Story of Pere Antoine -
Pere Antoine started off on the wrong foot in every way, being fresh off the boat from Spain, and determined to establish old world, harsh Catholicism in a new world setting. Known as the Spanish bigot, he caused pain and trouble. He even tried to establish a Holy Court of Inquisition in Louisiana, but luckily failed. All his misdoings and the harm he caused, became a source of great shame, after he underwent a spiritual renewal, that changed his perception of what his ministry should be. Once he found the right path, he focused on his ministry with all his heart and soul. He became a true spiritual leader, prayer warrior, counselor, teacher, and had a vigorous outreach program for the sick, the poor, the imprisoned and the slaves, working tirelessly for their benefit. He ministered to Protestants and Catholics or anyone in need, while living a simple life-style. He died at the age of 81, and was deeply mourned by the whole city of New Orleans. He too is buried in the cathedral, and his portrait hangs in the vestibule, giving everyone a clear picture of what he looked like; A tall, thin man, with dark brown eyes, a flowing white beard, wearing a traditional black monk robe and sandals.
He was instrumental in the lives of several well-known residents, performing the sacraments, teaching and counseling them;Ttruly a spiritual father to such parishioners as Marie Laveau, Madam LaLaurie, & Aimee Brusle
Story of Marie Laveau -
Marie Laveau - Her full story can be found on the St. Louis Cemetery Number 1 story on this website. Marie followed two religions:Catholicism: Worship of Jesus, and Voudou: Worship of the dark powers. She had her bases covered spiritually, or so she thought. Marie was a devout Catholic, and worked with Pere Antoine in his ministry to the poor, and the sick. She helped to nurse yellow fever patients, by the side of Pere Antoine. Despite her good works, displaying her Catholicism, she was denied a marked tomb when she died, because of her other darker activities in her Voudou worship business.
Story of Aimee Brusle -
A devout Catholic, daughter of a successful baker, she grew up under the influence of the good Pere Antoine. She married a Jewish merchant, Edward Gottchalk, probably against the wishes of her family, and despite Pere Antoine's advise, who also may have had an insight into the young man's character. The marriage turned out to be an unhappy one, as her husband kept a mistress down the street. She had several children. Her youngest daughter, Theresa, died of yellow fever. Her son, Louis Moreau Gottschak who had inherited her musical talent, was a child prodigy in music. His father sent him to Paris at the age of 8, to study with the masters there. He became the first American artist of great acclaim.
Anna felt trapped, and depressed, but consoled herself by playing the newly installed cathedral organ, which eased her great remorse temporarily.
She fought against her depression the rest of her life, by spending hours in the cathedral-basilica, playing the organ, while her husband continued with his business and mistress, and her children grew up.
Story of Ben Henry Latrobe -
Ben Henry Latrobe, the designer of the first bell tower, died before his labor of love was finished. His bell tower also collapsed during the revamping of the cathedral in 1849.
Story of Jean Delachaux -
He was the person sent to Paris to purchase a bell and clock for the original tower. This tower eventually collapsed, and a new one was built in 1849. While the original bell was reinstated, perhaps a newer clock was installed, which seems to be a point of concern for this dedicated soul.
Story of Delphine Macarty LaLaurie -
She led a double life; Being a well-respected, wealthy woman, married to a pillar of the community, hosting parties for the in-crowd at the time, while having a sadistic side seen in slave abuse, mutilation and torture. Her two worlds were destined to collide, after a fire in the kitchen brought light to what she was doing to her slaves. She and her husband quickly left New Orleans, two steps ahead of the authorities, with tattered reputations and ruined lives, taking respite, some say in Paris. Others say they fled to a friend's mansion somewhere in Louisiana.
When Madame LaLaurie died in Paris, her remains were buried in St. Louis Cemetery Number 1, not far from the family tomb of Marie Laveau.
MANIFESTATIONS:
Pere Dagobert and the entities of the 6 executed men whose graves were probably disturbed over time are present in the St Louis Cathedral-Basilica.
When the St Louis Cathedral-Basilica is closed for the evening, witnesses have heard the fine voice of Pere Dagobert singing a funeral mass, starting at the main altar. As the singing travels down the aisle toward the doors, witnesses have seen a bright light moving from window to window. The disembodied singing continues down the alley toward the area where St. Peter's Cemetery used to be located.
Often, on rainy afternoons, the entity of Pere Dagobert has been seen by the living, still praying for the people of New Orleans, and probably for peace for the 6 entities who are linked to him.
Whenever the entity Pere Dagobert manifests itself, the entities of the 6 slain men are not far away, shyly standing in the shadows, ready to assist Pere Dagobert, eternally grateful to him for a proper Catholic funeral. It is also thought that these 6 entities are self-appointed guardians of the building.
The entity of Pere Antoine - Appears in full bodily form, looking like a real person; exactly like he is pictured in his portrait: Witnesses see a tall man, with brown eyes and a flowing white beard, wearing a black robe and sandals.
It is thought that he may still be really ashamed of his earlier folly, or that he chooses to continue to serve this congregation that he had dedicated himself to serve in Christ.
The good Pere Antoine often is seen walking slowly down Pere Antoine’s Alley, deep in prayer, reading his book of prayers.
He is also seen deep in thought, walking through the Cathedral garden.
During all times of the day, tourists and locals have seen this entity hurrying through the streets of the French Quarter, on a mission of need. They have also seen him in unexpected places.
A woman in high heels was hurrying down Pere Antoine’s Alley, tripped and was headed for a bad fall, when she was caught by a robed man, Pere Antoine, who helped her onto her feet, and then disappeared before she could thank him. She felt a peace all afternoon.
When the children's choir is rehearsing for a performance, the entity of Pere Antoine likes to appear, sit in the pew opposite the altar, and loves to listen to their voices.
During the holidays, the entity of Pere Antoine is an active spirit, appearing in the choir loft, and will hold a white candle during Christmas Eve Mass while walking down a side aisle-way.
Regrets about their lives have kept some parishioners tied to this world:
The entity of Madame LaLaurie - this detailed yet probably see- through apparition is trying to receive forgiveness for her despicable brutality.
Witnesses have seen her in a third row pew, kneeling and fervently praying, gazing up at the central altar.
Witnesses have seen her, looking forlorn, walking back and forth in the area of one of the confessional booths, looking for a priest to absolve her from her dastardly deeds.
The entity of Marie Laveau - appears in a full, human-like state, looking very real to the living. She is a restless spirit annoyed with the living, and probably afraid to go to the other side.
When she isn't walking around St. Louis Cemetery Number 1, reliving her VouDou practice, or visiting places she liked while alive, she is in the Cathedral-Basilica, praying on her knees, twice a day, early morning and evening, perhaps seeking forgiveness for her Voudou practice.
The entity of Aimee Brusle - Can't let go of her grief, disappointment and deep regrets and go to the other side. She is seen, dressed in a dark, full dress from the mid 19th century.
The entity of his forlorn personality has been seen by witnesses in the organ loft, who looks downat the living with a depressed demeanor, though sometimes she is angry and frustrated.
Others observe that she seems to want to communicate with the living.
Her soft sobs of grief have been heard in the Cathedral vaults.
The entity of Ben Henry Latrobe - Was terribly disappointed about dying before his labor or love was finished. Was most active during the final days of construction of his tower.
A strange atmosphere of a haunted space was felt by the living in the tower area.
Workmen would only work there with a partner, as his presence was strongly felt, and sometimes seen if they stayed too long. it probably was like having someone look over your shoulder.
Tools and objects of the workmen would be moved by unseen hands.
Strange sounds were heard as well.
Sometime the bell would faintly sound, when no wind was present, like someone wanted to hear it ring.
�� The entity of Jean Delachaux - A man who is dressed in early 1800's attire
The entity of Jean Delachaux has been seen by witnesses when the clock is chiming, inside the alcove of the cathedral-basilica, studying his old fashioned watch, checking to see if the time on his time piece matches the time on the clock, that he didn't personally choose, and perhaps has issues about its quality and dependability.
Source
SOURCES INCLUDE;
http://stlouiscathedral.org/ * en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Louis_Cathedral
hauntedneworleanstours.com
Thursday, October 29, 2009
St Louis Cemetery Number 1
ADDRESS:
499 Basin Street, New Orleans, Louisiana.
LOCATION:
St Louis Cemetery Number 1 can be found just northwest of Basin St, and just 1 block west of N. Rampart St, which is the furthest inland border of the French Quarter. It is 8 blocks from the Mississippi River, being the riverside border of the French Quarter. St. Louis St. borders the cemetery's eastern side, while its western and northern sides have the Iberville public housing as its neighbors.
NOTE: Because of its closeness to the Iberville public housing, which in the past has housed a few people who like to rob tourists in the narrow alleys between vaults, there is a high wall surrounding the cemetery, and the cemetery closes at 3:00 sharp. It is strongly recommended that tourists visit via a tour group. When the gates are locked, the cemetery is left to the restless spirits who walk its paths.
Tom and I took the Haunted Cemetery Tour, run by a preservation group. No ghost stories were told, but we learned a lot about this cemetery and the people whose remains are in these vaults.
DESCRIPTION AND HISTORY:
St Louis Cemetery Number 1 is one of three Roman Catholic cemeteries which make up Saint Louis Cemetery. It opened in 1789, to replace the old Saint Peters Cemetery, once located closer to the heart of the city. New Orleans was redesigned after the huge fire of 1788. It was thought that it would be healthier to have the cemetery further away from where people lived.
Though this high walled St. Louis Cemetery Number 1 is only one square block in diameter, it is the resting place of over 100,000 departed New Orleans citizens, due to burial customs, based on practicality. Because New Orleans has issues with high ground water, and a lack of land for burial, nearly all the graves are in above-ground vaults, which offered a variety of choices, showing the creativity of the human spirit. One does see one or two very old slab graves, with a slab of cement, bricks on top of the burial site, to keep the coffin(s) from popping out!
The traditional family vault ranged from simple to very grand: The deceased was placed in a wooden coffin, that was put in the above ground rectangular slot in the vault, and kept there for a year and a day. The coffin was then removed, and the bones were put in a bag, labeled and shoved to the back of the vault, leaving room for the next family member who may pass on. Sometimes the vault had another slot for an emergency, in case a death happened in the family or group before the year and a day time frame had elapsed. The grander the vault, the more slots were available. Sometimes, another vault space was borrowed in cases of multiple deaths in one year.
There were also group vaults, where a group of families or an organization got together and bought a large vault for their final resting place. These group vaults took on a variety of shapes in this cemetery of house-like vaults, which altogether resemble a neighborhood of structures for the dead.
Alleys and pathways wind around the various vaults of the very prominent, making the way to the very back of the cemetery, to the resting place of the lowly of their society. The paupers field area of unmarked graves is located here, for people who couldn't afford to buy a vault, and had no one to offer a space in another vault for burial. Also in the back of the cemetery is where the Protestant and Jewish minorities were buried, separate from the Catholics, yet still allowed in the cemetery.
St Louis Cemetery Number 1 is the final resting place of a variety of characters; some of the very notable, others that were flawed yet good citizens, and some very infamous characters with personal issues as well.
In the notable category:
One can find the family vault of Etienne de Boré, King's Musketeer turned sugar entrepreneur and Mayor of New Orleans.
One can find the family vault of Paul Morphy, a world famous chess champion.
Also of note is the large memorial vault honoring the remains of the men who died in the Battle of New Orleans.
Flawed yet good citizens:
Bernard de Marigny is best known for his love of gambling, and bringing the game of Hazard (craps) to New Orleans, though he also served honorably on the New Orleans City Council and as President of the Louisiana Senate. Because of his debts from gambling, Bernard sub-divided part of his plantation into sixty ft lots, which he sold to individuals for home development, becoming a real estate broker for a time, making money to feed his habit and support his luxurious, spoiled life-style. At the end of his life, he died without money because of his gambling, which eventually ate through the family fortune.
Infamous characters with personal issues -
Model citizen turned Brigand, Barthelemy Lafon - Got off to a great start, as an architect, engineer, city planner for the City of New Orleans, making some great contributions. In 1803, when Americans began to flood New Orleans, he became Deputy Surveyor of Orleans County, and developed new housing and buildings in the Lower Garden District. However, after the Battle of New Orleans, he gave up his gifts and service, and joined the notorious Lafitte brothers, becoming a pirate and smuggler, being seduced by the thrills and easy, ill-gotten money. He died from yellow fever.
Voudou Priestess - Marie Laveau -She and then her daughter sought fame and attention through practicing Voudou "magic" for both the good of people and to bring negative consequences to those whom she thought deserved it. She developed a huge following and cult practice.
HISTORY OF MANIFESTATIONS:
There are numerous reports of paranormal activity, earning this cemetery the honor by some as the most haunted cemetery in the United States. Here are just a few.
When a grave isn't properly respected as a person's remains, and honor due them is missing, entities have become restless, and haunt the area.
((Liberty Hall * Gettysburg National Cemetery & Devils Den * Rose Hills Cemetery * The General Wayne Inn)
Sometimes having personal regrets about life's choices can cause restless spirits. (Dupont Mansion)
Voudou Priestess - Marie Laveau -
Marie began life as an illegitimate daughter of a neglectful plantation owner and a free creole women. She married at 18 to a Haitian free man. Marie became a hair dresser to the wealthy after he died. She began to practice Voudou, and developed a huge following, by doing both good works, and other not so nice acts through her supposed magical powers, conjured up from a dark power.
Her practice was based on elements of the Catholic religion, African religion and culture. Realists say that the results of her magical powers were based on the information she was able to gather through her hair dressing occupation and the vast network of informants made up of the creole servants, working in the wealthy households. Others say she actually used the black arts of darkness.
Why? Perhaps she was trying to get even or have power and respect from her father's class, and society in general, becoming something above her lowly beginning. Her many followers came from all walks of life, from the wealthy to the poor.
She did volunteer to take care of the sick along side the priest during the many epidemics which rolled through New Orleans, perhaps to develop good PR among the people, or perhaps because she did have a heart and a will to do good, underneath all her issues, and her quest for power and fame. When she died, her daughter, also named Maria took over her mother's Voudou cult.
Marie Laveau was buried in an unmarked tomb, not in the family vault. Because of the fame and attention she received through practicing Voudou " black magic", the authorities didn't want to turn the cemetery into a shrine for her followers. Her daughter Marie, also a Voudou Priestess was buried in the family vault years later, which may seem unfair to Marie Laveau, and perhaps has some regret about becoming involved with Voudou, as she is also seen praying twice a day at Saint Louis Cathedral-Basilica.
Entity of Henry Vignes' - Victim of a betrayal of a trusted person.
Henry was a seaman, who foolishly gave the papers to his family's vault to his landlady, who owned the building where he lived. He trusted her to be in charge if he died at sea. She proved to be of poor character, and she sold his vault for her personal gain. When he suddenly died, before he could seek justice, there was no vault to put him in, so he was buried in an unmarked grave in the back of this cemetery in the pauper's field area.
Suffering a sudden, unexpected death, especially at the hands of another can cause restless spirits.
(Fort Worth Steakhouse * County Line BBQ * O Henry's Roadhouse Building * White Eagle Pub & Hotel)
Entity of a young man - known as Alphonse - Never has gotten past his own demise, causing him the loss of loved ones.
He is lonely and misses his loved ones terribly. He seems to long for his home, and mourns his own death. This entity behaves like his life was suddenly taken from him, perhaps the victim of a member of the Pinead Clan, or a disease.
MANIFESTATIONS:
Like many cemeteries, there are restless souls here who cannot give up this world for the next for a variety of reasons. The entities described below go all the way and appear in a solid, human-like living form, and speak clearly to the living. They are mistaken for being real people. Perhaps they feel it would be rude not to do so, or are so upset they are willing to gather the energy to give the living the full paranormal experience.
Two of the entities were restless and upset, because they were buried in nameless graves;
one in an unmarked tomb, and
one in an unmarked grave in the pauper's field section of unmarked graves, at the very back of the cemetery, next to the Protestant and Jewish section.
The Entity of Marie Laveau - Was not a happy camper, for a very long time.
. * Her distinctive apparition had been seen in the area of her unmarked tomb, probably fuming, frustrated with the living, and longing for the fame and power she enjoyed during her life-time as a Voudou Priestess.
* Perhaps she has regrets about turning from her Catholic faith, dividing her worship with the black arts, causing her burial to be anonymously.
* She has been seen, in a foul mood, storming along a pathway, chanting curses, aimed at the living.
* She slapped a man who was passing by the area of her unmarked tomb. Perhaps he unknowingly stepped on her grave. Perhaps he looked a lot like someone she was furious with when she was still alive.
* Many believe that her death didn't stop her from practicing her black magic, using the powers of darkness. Some say she turns herself into a black crow or a big black dog. Both such animals have been seen roaming the cemetery. Many people leave notes, requests, and offerings on the family vault for her.
Entity of Henry Vignes' - In search of a vault for his remains.
Appears to the unsuspecting tourist or tour guide in a full, solid form, looking very much alive. He is described as tall, dressed in a white shirt, with piercing blue eyes, still looking for his family's lost vault, or a place in someone else's vault, so he could be properly buried.
It has been reported by witnesses, who are visiting the cemetery that the entity of Henry will approach the unsuspecting person, and ask if they know where his family's old vault, for the Vignes family, is located. He then walks away and suddenly disappears.
Sometimes this entity will tap the living on the shoulder, and ask, "Do you know anything about this Tomb here?"
At family funerals, Henry has asked the mourners if there is any room in the vault for his remains.
Lonely entity of a young man - Alphonse
This entity of this young man will walk up to the visitor, looking like a real, live person, will take their hand into his ice cold hand, and with a big smile on his face, ask for help in going to his home. He will start to cry and then disappear.
This same entity is very much afraid of the Pinead family vault, and warns visitors to stay away from it.
The entity of Alphonse has been seen carrying vases and flowers from other vaults to his own, perhaps to try to make himself feel better.
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Evidence abounds, pointing to the restless ones who walk its pathways, searching for the something that keeps them in this world.
Throughout the years, the living have gathered evidence of Orbs, taken photos with entities in full form, recorded EVP"S, and experienced strange paranormal activity.
The entity of Henry Vignes' image has been seen photos, wearing a dark suit with no shirt. On EVPs, he pleads with the living, "I need to rest!"
The entity of Alphonse will also appear in photos, and his voice has been recorded on EVPs as well.
The restless, bitter entity of Marie Laveau - May have mellowed a bit. While her angry presence has been seen and heard by many eye witnesses throughout the years, she may have found some peace. Perhaps to try to calm her spirit, a plaque about Marie and her Voudou practice was placed on the outside of an unmarked tomb that possibly is her resting place, though none knows for sure. People have marked 3 XXX's on the outside of the vault, leave a note about their request, and leave an offering. When they believe that their wish came true because of her, they draw a line through the three X's.
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