The International Consortium for Psychical Research and Paranormal Inquiry ® Blog Page

cogito ergo sum — carpe diem!

 

 

The I.C.P.R.P.I. is a not-for-profit research consortium and educational resource centre. The purpose of the consortium is to firstly; gain a better understanding about the enigmatic nature of psi-phenomena as related to the human condition. Secondly, to act as a depository for related research into the investigation of psi-phenomena, which is to be made available for all interested persons world-wide, and finally, to uphold and positively augment the reasoning and purpose of psychical and parapsychological research in order to better the discipline as an accepted, and respected aspect of science and philosophical inquiry. 

The I.C.P.R.P.I. is invested to research and scholarly contribution, yet not limited to of the following areas of such thought: Hauntings, Apparitions and Poltergeist phenomena, Extra Sensory Perception (ESP), Post-Mortem Survival (PMS), Psychokinesis (PK), Metaphysical Studies, Dream-State Research and Astral Projection, Out‑of‑Body Experiences (OBE) and Near-Death Experiences (NDE), Mediumship and Spirit Channeling, The Occult and Magical Arts as related to the paranormal, Altered States of Consciousness, Ecto-Connectivity (EC), Religious Experiences and Beliefs (Sympathetic/Contagious Magic), Psychic Healing and Alternative Medicine, Astrology and Divination, Demon Possession and Demonology. In addition to this, The I.C.P.R.P.I. is also interested in regional and international aspects of Folklore and Urban Legends, Cryptozoology, as well as UFO incidents, Alien and Abduction phenomena.

We welcome all to participate in our investigations, and welcome your individual input in order to better the understanding of these and other controversial subjects.

 

“…Scientia potentia est, sed parva; quia scientia egregia rara est, nec proinde apparens nisi paucissimis, et in paucis rebus. Scientiae enim ea natura est, ut esse intelligi non possit, nisi ab illis qui sunt scientia praediti…”

Thomas Hobbes, De Homine, 1658.

 

 

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The following listing of organizations, agencies and private groups and societies constitutes a primary listing of affiliates, and which represents the professional end of the field of psychical research and related paranormal investigations. These organizations have been chosen by the I.C.P.R.P.I. as the main source for investigating this field from a professional and exact standpoint, and are of such advised for serious scholars to take part in. Having said that; it is important to realize that other groups and organizations that refer to themselves as professional and/or as ‘parapsychologists,’ though not having a scientific background, or at least having an actual working knowledge of the profession, should instead, begin taking part in serious research in order to better acquaint themselves to this profession as a whole…Its not only about ghosts and poltergeists. Although I can certainly respect the interesting nature of the popular ‘ghost hunting/reality “in-your-face” television shows,’ it would be a good choice to ‘investigate’ from another perspective. Furthermore, though this blog page is a retrospective of popular notions and concepts; almost entirely from a ‘folkloric’ perspective, we do indeed value the importance of the purely scientific quest to get the truth by scientific means. I hope you will too.

 

Training and Research

 

        If you’re looking for down-to-earth training in parapsychology, consciousness studies or transpersonal psychology, there are several organizations that can offer this, either from a scholastic, hard science foundation (listed later on in this report), or from a more hands-on foundation, taught by real-time professionals in the field. My first recommendation is Loyd Auerbach, a well-known expert on ghosts and psychic experience, holding a Master’s degree in Parapsychology; is director of the Office of Paranormal Investigations, as well as a professor at JFK University. He is the creator and instructor of the Certificate Program in Parapsychological Studies at HCH Institute, and hosts many lecture series both from a distance perspective and in California. Professor Auerbach is known to be open to questions and for offering sound advice for those who are serious about the profession.  

For more information, please visit: http://www.atlanticuniv.edu/index.html and http://www.ghostvillage.com/ghostvillageu/parapsychologycourses.shtml For professor Auerbach’s Blog page, visit: http://mindreader.com/

 

        My second recommendation is Dr. Andrew Nichols, Ph.D., a well known figure in the psychical research community, having been seen in dozens of documentaries, is author of Ghost Detective: Adventures of a Parapsychologist and who is director of the American Institute of Parapsychology (AIP), a non-profit research and educational organization based in Gainesville, Florida. AIP’s purpose is to foster to its students a greater understanding about the anomalous aspects of the human experience, which of course includes the subjects of ghosts and hauntings. AIP conducts various courses in parapsychology, aimed at the general public, and maintains a library specializing in parapsychology, abnormal psychology and occult/mystical studies (a collection that includes hundreds of books, audio-visual materials and issues of the main parapsychology journals for students). Dr. Nichols and his staff offers top-notch instruction, but don’t expect silliness or reality show drama — This is the real thing, and will offer its students a chance to explore this topic from a direct point-of-view.

 

            For more information, please visit: http://parapsychologylab.com/  

           

 Top Organizations in Parapsychology and Psychical Research 

 

        The following organizations are among my favorites, and are ones I am involved with directly, or indirectly. I hope you, the reader, will take a moment to look at these groups and institutions and see how the ‘Real Ghost Hunters’ operate within the profession of psychical research. This listing should be regarded as the best of the professional organizations affiliated with the methodology utilized by the ICPRPI, and is recommended for the serious researcher to take part in, and/or join. No doubt, there are other groups and organizations befitting this listing, so if I missed anyone, my apologies. Please send your details for review, and we’ll be happy list you here. Otherwise, enjoy the grand opportunity you have to take part in the actual study of parapsychology from the top listing below. 

 

• Rhine Research Center (USA)

 http://www.rhine.org/

Based in Durham, USA, the Center continues and expands the work of J.B. and Louisa Rhine, the Rhine Research Center is an integrative center for the study of consciousness. It serves as the hub for ground-breaking research and educational activities on the nature of human consciousness, which includes all aspects of paranormal and psychical research. This organization offers a scholarly listing of lecture and conference series, as well as resources that will aid the researcher in all areas of the field.

2741 Campus Walk Ave # 500
Durham, NC 27705-8878 — (919) 309-4600

 

• Society for Psychical Research (UK)

http://www.spr.ac.uk/main/

The SPR was first overseen by Henry Sidgwick, Professor of Moral Philosophy at Cambridge University, and the society’s first president. The SPR is the ‘first learned society’ of its kind, founded in London in 1882 for the purpose of “investigating that large body of debatable phenomena designated by such terms as mesmeric, psychical and spiritualistic, and to do so in the same spirit of exact and unimpassioned inquiry which has enabled science to solve so many problems.” Among the early members of the SPR were such prominent figures as the physicist William Barrett; the experimental physicist Lord Rayleigh; Arthur Balfour, philosopher and Prime Minister Gerald Balfour, a classical scholar and philosopher As this is the first such organization to openly research and ponder such things; other than another of England’s premier psychical organization; ‘The Ghost Club,’ the SPR continues to be the pentacle of such societies, offering students, researchers and the public a plethora of resources regarding this area of scientific inquiry, though lecture and conference series, library inter-loan privileges and much more.

For further information: The SPR
49 Marloes Road, Kensington, London.

W8 6LA — Tel:  0207 9378984        

 

·         The Parapsychological Association, Inc. (USA)

http://www.parapsych.org/

The Parapsychological Association, Inc. (PA) is the international professional organization of scientists and scholars engaged in the study of ‘psi’ (or ‘psychic’) experiences, such as telepathy, clairvoyance, remote viewing, psychokinesis, psychic healing, and precognition. It is also engaged in the more traditional aspects of the research, such as ghosts, haunting and related paranormal events.

 

·         The Parapsychology Foundation (USA)

http://www.parapsychology.org/

The Parapsychology Foundation is a not-for-profit foundation which provides a worldwide forum supporting the scientific investigation of psychic phenomena. The Foundation gives grants, publishes pamphlets, monographs, conference proceedings and the International Journal of Parapsychology, hosts the Perspectives Lecture Series, and even conducts an Outreach Program. In addition to this, it also operates The Psychic Explorers Club, operated by world-renowned psychic, Eileen J. Garrett. Visit  www.psychicexplorers.org/ for more information.

 

·         The Princeton Engineering Anomalies Research P.E.A.R. program (USA)

http://www.princeton.edu/~pear/

The (PEAR) program, an organization that has existed  for nearly three decades under the aegis of Princeton University’s School of Engineering and Applied Science, has completed its experimental agenda of studying the interaction of human consciousness with sensitive physical devices, systems, and processes, and developing complementary theoretical models to enable better understanding of the role of consciousness in the establishment of physical reality. It continues to research various aspects of anomalous phenomena.  This unique organization also housed the International Consciousness Research Laboratory http://www.icrl.org/home/an international, interdisciplinary consortium. Its goal is to foster a broader range of inquiry; to encourage a new generation of deeply creative investigators to expand the boundaries of scientific understanding; and to strengthen the foundations of science by reclaiming its spiritual heritage. 

 

• Society for Scientific Exploration (USA)

http://www.scientificexploration.org/

The SSE is a multidisciplinary professional organization; the SSE is committed to the study of phenomena that cross traditional scientific boundaries. Designed as a professional organization for scientists and scholars who study unusual and unexplained phenomena, the SSE intermingles the foundations of mainstream science and technology with such concepts as consciousness, UFO research, and alternative medicine, yet often offers profound implications for human knowledge and technology. The SSE provides a professional forum for presentations, criticism, and debate concerning topics which are for various reasons ignored or studied inadequately within mainstream science. Their secondary goal is to promote an improved understanding of those factors that unnecessarily limit the scope of scientific inquiry, such as sociological constraints, restrictive world views, hidden theoretical assumptions, and the temptation to convert prevailing theory into prevailing dogma.

 

• Institute for Scientific Exploration 

http://instituteforscientificexploration.org/

            The ISE conducts groundbreaking research in the biomedical, natural sciences, and social sciences fields, as well as investigates alternative practices, such as alternative medicine therapies, and alternative scientific theories and hypotheses, in order to help explain the many unanswered scientific questions, as well as, the many scientific anomalies and other unexplained phenomena of all kinds that have been observed in these fields. Secondly, based on research findings, ISE’s mission is to develop novel services and technologies that will benefit people, and help solve the major problems faced by corporations, government agencies, and other organizations and institutions that serve society, worldwide. This organization should be considered among the more scientific, though not entirely from the psychical perspective. This is an excellent organization for those who hold degrees in a scientific discipline, who wish to get active in a present field, and/or to publish though their network.

 

• The Ghost Club (UK)

http://www.ghostclub.org.uk/

Noted as the original ghost-lore and paranormal organization in history (founded in 1862) the Ghost Club has had an illustrious membership. From Charles Dickens, Siegfried Sassoon, Harry Price, Peter Cushing, Peter Underwood, Maurice Grosse and many others, today the Ghost Club is a non-profit, social club run by an elected Council of volunteers. Its purpose remains true to its roots; the Ghost Club offers open-minded, curious individuals the opportunity to debate, explore and investigate unexplained phenomena with like-minded people and record the results for posterity.   The Ghost Club offers overnight and on-site investigations (Throughout the United Kingdom), as well as club meetings and a newsletter for its members.

 

• Cognitive Sciences Laboratory (USA)

http://www.lfr.org/LFR/csl/

The Laboratory conducts Parapsychological research, and is part of The Laboratories for Fundamental Research based at Palo Alto, USA.

 

·         The Committee for Skeptical Inquiry (USA)

http://www.csicop.org/

The purpose of the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry is to promote serious investigation and critical thinking in the areas of the claims of the paranormal and similar concepts of a controversial nature. Though at first this organization appears to be the international naysayer of the paranormal investigator, it is vital for said researcher to view the opposite spectrum of the paranormal debate, and learn from their studies and contributions in order to better our own scholarly database. To that end, the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry serves as a staging point from the skeptic’s point of view, and then to consider their findings in spite of the oftentimes demeaning approach in doing so.  

 

• Department of Psychology, University of Goeteborg (Germany)

http://parapsykologi.se/artiklar/ganzfeld.html  

The Ganzfeld project at the University of Göteborg (Gothenburg) is aimed at bringing so-called subjective psi-experiences into a laboratory setting which will the exact nature of the experiences and the conditions influencing their occurrence to be studied. It incorporates the essential features relating to the occurrences of the spontaneous phenomena. The focus of research interest is the nature of consciousness and its relation to brain processes and human potential.

 

• Division of Perceptual Studies, University of Virginia (USA)

http://www.medicine.virginia.edu/clinical/departments/psychiatry/sections/cspp/dops/home-page

Founded by the late Professor Ian Stevenson, the main purpose of the unit is the scientific investigation of phenomena that suggest that currently accepted scientific assumptions and theories about the nature of mind or consciousness, and its relationship to matter, may be incomplete. Examples of such phenomena include various types of extrasensory perception, apparitions and deathbed visions, poltergeists, near-death experiences (NDEs), out-of-body experiences (OBEs), and claimed memories of previous lives.

 

• Institute for Frontier Areas of Psychology and Mental Health (USA)

http://www.igpp.de/english/welcome.htm

The Institute, based at Freiburg in Germany, engages in research concerning insufficiently understood phenomena and anomalies at the frontiers of current scientific knowledge.

 

• Institute of Noetic Sciences (USA)

http://noetic.org/

The Institute is based in California and conducts research into consciousness-related matters. Founded by astronaut Dr. Edgar Mitchell, now serving as a board member for the institute, he continues to be active at institute events, including lectures and conferences. The institute is an excellent way to find scholarly information and related referrals within the psi related communities, as well as offering a way to contribute and gain knowledge in this arena.

 

·         Berkeley Psychic Institute (USA)

http://www.berkeleypsychic.com/

Also known as the “psychic kindergarten,” founded in 1973, the institute is designed to further education in various aspects of psychic research, and teaches how to recognize and develop psychic abilities through classes in clairvoyance, meditation, healing and energy. This is an excellent resource for those living on the west coast of the United States.

 

·         The Boundary Institute (USA)

http://www.boundaryinstitute.org/bi/index.html

Boundary Institute is a nonprofit scientific research organization dedicated to the advancement of 21^st-Century science. We are currently pursuing two major research themes, one concerning the foundations of physics, the other the foundations of mathematics and computer science.

 

• Centre for Fundamental and Anomalies Research C-FAR(USA)

http://www.c-far.org/

The Centre for Fundamental & Anomalies Research aims to encourage, sponsor and conduct research into controversial or open issues in science and philosophy, and to use findings to promote positive social change.

 

·         The Koestler Parapsychology Unit KPU (UK)

http://www.koestler-parapsychology.psy.ed.ac.uk/

·         The Koestler Parapsychology Unit is a research group based in the Psychology Department at the University of Edinburgh. This scholarly organization consists of academic staff and postgraduate students who teach and research various aspects of parapsychology and psychical-based research, including: the possible existence of psychic ability, the belief in the paranormal the psychology of anomalous experiences, pseudo-psychic deception and other aspects of the field.

 

·         Pacific Neuropsychiatric Institute PNI (USA)

http://www.pni.org/esp/

PNI researches, among other topics, the anomalous experiences (those of a person’s having a paranormal, psychic or otherwise bizarre experience) that it cannot easily be explained using our conventional laws of science. Subjective paranormal experiences in temporal lobe dysfunction Déjà Vu, Out of body Experience and Vortex Pluralism to name a few.

 

·         The Paranormal Network/The Office of Paranormal Investigation (USA)

http://www.mindreader.com/

The OPI draws on the investigative and research traditions of parapsychology, psychical research and other fields of science to provide information and consulting services for the general public, Media, Business, the Legal Community, Law Enforcement, Realtors, and other specialized audiences. It is interested in potential applications of psi experiences in those arenas.

 

• ASSAP (USA)

http://www.assap.org/

The Association for the Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena is a scientifically-oriented educational charity and amateur research organization dedicated to a better understanding of anomalous phenomena.

 

• Austrian Society for Parapsychology (Austria)

 http://www.parapsychologie.at/index.htm

Based at Vienna University, the society organizes public lectures and maintains a library, and serves as an excellent resource for our German/Austrian scholars and Germanic speaking students of the paranormal who are looking for related information and lecture series in their home countries. It also offers good resources for contacts and links, as well as having an excellent archival section of past and ongoing investigations and symposiums on the many aspects of psychical research.

 

• Exceptional Human Experience (USA)

http://ehe.org/display/splash.html

Here’s another excellent web community that focuses on fascinating topics regarding   everything within the realm of parapsychology, but also the concepts of psychology, anthropology, sociology and all things akin to the human condition. Although the founder and primary contributor, Rhea White, passed away in 2007, the contents of this scholarly community continue, with their exceptional web journal ‘Psiline.’ For more information, on the subject of psychical experiences, contact http://www.parapsychology.org directly.  

 

• The European Paranormal Society Germany (German)

http://www.teps-germany.de/english.html

Teps-Germany is located in Essen, Ruhr, and investigates throughout Europe. Because the founders have typical occupations, their meeting times are by appointment arrangement to be determined. This is a new organization which is dedicated to serious research and for the collection and preservation of all findings.   

 

• The International Institute of Metaphysics IMI (France)

http://www.metapsychique.org/

The L’Institut Metapsychique International (IMI) or ‘The International Institute of Metaphysics’ is another excellent resource and scholarly organization/society for French-speaking students of the paranormal. Located in Paris, and established in 1919, the IMI supports the scientific study of phenomena related to paranormal, psychical and occult research. It houses an excellent library at its headquarters, and hosts lectures and related symposiums throughout Paris. 

 

• Psychic Science (UK)

http://www.psychicscience.org/daniels.aspx

Dr. Michael Daniels BSc (Hons, 1st Class), PhD, AFBPsS, CPsychol. Is the administrator of the Psychic Science web page. He is Senior Lecturer in Psychology and Program Leader for the M.Sc in Consciousness and Transpersonal Psychology at Liverpool John Moores University, United Kingdom. He is the author of several books and many academic articles and chapters in the areas of transpersonal psychology, parapsychology, psychical research and Jungian psychology. This site offers an introduction to parapsychology and a number of psi tests online. It is an excellent resource for those interested in the other aspects of Parapsychological research, which has been neglected in recent years. It retains a professional and courteous way in teaching this area of psychical research.

 

• Paranormal Database (UK)

http://www.paranormaldatabase.com/

The Paranormal Database is a serious ongoing project to quantitatively document as many locations with paranormal/cryptozoological interest as possible, region by region throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. Ninety-four areas are currently covered, now totaling over 9600 entries, with frequent additions and current stories continuously updated. This is website will offer the serious investigator a chance to explore the United Kingdom from an insider’s point of view. For our world travelers, this association will prove invaluable.   

 

• The Princeton University School of Engineering Anomalies (USA)

http://www.princeton.edu/~pear/

The Princeton Engineering Anomalies Research (PEAR) program is a scholarly aspect of Princeton University’s School of Engineering and Applied Science. Its primary goal was to experiment the interaction of human consciousness with sensitive physical devices, such as systems and processes, and developing complementary theoretical models to enable better understanding of the role of consciousness in the establishment of physical reality. Though this organization is comprised of scientists and engineers who take their craft very seriously, they are open to ideas about the paranormal from a purely scientific stance, and have a plethora of scholarly contributions to the field. Their theoretical models and detail to proposed implications will serve the technical student of psychical research with favor. 

 

• Scottish Society for Psychical Research (UK)

http://www.sspr.co.uk/

The SSPR was founded by Professor Archie Roy in 1987, and aims to investigate all types of phenomena known as Paranormal or Parapsychological, and collect, classify and study reports of such phenomena. There are monthly lectures in Glasgow, (Sept. through April) which usually take place in the Boyd Orr Building of the University of Glasgow. These lectures cover everything from medium-ship and psychic detection to ghost and haunting research. The SSPR also has the PSI Report Magazine, which covers its meeting minutes and offers information of upcoming lecture series and referrals. 

 

• The Harry Price Website (UK)

http://www.harrypricewebsite.co.uk/index.html 

This web page is dedicated to the life and work of England’s most famous ghost hunter and controversial psychical researcher, Harry Price (1881-1948). Harry Price had offered a great deal to the exploits of the historical psychical researcher, as well as for modern-day researcher. Though the constant victim from naysayers and critics of his day, he had investigated the concept of parapsychology with a certain zeal that continues to be used to this day. Best remembered for his research into Borley Rectory ‘The Most Haunted House in England,’ Price was one of the first researchers to use animals, primarily dogs, to accompany him on overnight vigils, as he believed that such animals had a keener sense of the unseen world around us. This concept, which is hardly refuted today, was an topic of humor in his day. This website will offer researcher a good look into the paranormal investigation of the past.  

 

 

* Please note: All stories, conjectures and resources have been written by the author, Greg Jenkins. All photos used are either those of the author, or are from a non-licensed source, such as from a public domain.  As the stories are in part from the author’s books, and owned by Pineapple Press, Inc., permission must be secured before any story, in part or in whole is reproduced, outside of being used as a cited quotation.       

 

Source:

http://new.pineapplepress.com/booksummary.asp

 

The Herlong Mansion and a serene ghost named Inez

 

Courtesy Gainesville Guru Blog Page

“The ingredients for a good ghost story are all in place here, a majestic old southern manse with secret rooms and a tragic past, dark nights and huge oaks draped with Spanish Moss that sway in the wind … the ghost here is said to be that of Inez Herlong-Miller…”

The Herlong Mansion Website

 

Yet another excellent bed and breakfast inn, the Herlong Mansion remains one of the finest in the state of Florida. Voted “Florida’s Most Elegant Bed & Breakfast” by Florida Trend Magazine; the Herlong easily lives up to its reputation as an elegant and restful place with all the necessary accommodations, but without the hustle and bustle of the world around it. Located in peaceful Micanopy Florida, located just between I-75 and US-441 in southeastern Alachua County, and only minutes from downtown Gainesville, it is one of the last outpost-like towns in the state of Florida. Micanopy, pronounced (Mick-can-oh’-pee), is a small, one stoplight town, where the streets are lined with ancient oaks, covered with Spanish moss, and is surrounded with stately homes and small storefronts. This little town reflects the very nature of the word quaint, where time seems to stand still. With small antique stores and old bookshops, and the small family-owned emporiums that offer handmade ceramic, stained glass and jewelry goods, the town is truly a portal to a more civilized time, especially for Florida. The bed and breakfast inns and gourmet restaurants offer small town values and hospitality, which will make anyone’s stay enjoyable. Because Micanopy is so picturesque, it was chosen as the backdrop for such films as Doc Hollywood, with Michael J. Fox, and Cross Creek, with Mary Steenburgen. This was certainly a wise choice, as most of the buildings here are not only listed with The National Historic Registry, but truly look as if Hollywood had built them for films of long ago.

Micanopy is also considered one of the oldest native inland settlements in Florida, if not the oldest of all native settlements. Ancient documents show that a Timucuan village existed here for over a thousand years, until it and the people were destroyed by the Spanish invader Hernando De Soto. The first European settlers would soon arrived in 1821, bringing Western civilization to Florida, adopting the old Indian name Micanopy out of respect in 1834. At the turn of the century, a Mrs. Natalie Herlong departed South Carolina to inherit a quantity of land in Micanopy, as well as a somewhat rundown farmhouse. The Herlongs were forced to relocate from South Carolina to Florida because the family’s business was failing terribly, so the relocation seemed like a blessing. Mr. Herlong however, never learned to love Micanopy as the others did, regretting the move from his beloved Carolinas. Regardless, Mrs. Herlong held the title to the property until she passed away, leaving the Herlong Mansion to her six children. The only understanding is that the will’s decree was to be respected by the children, along with the addendum to the deed as it were, which stated that their father could live in the house until his death. Mr. Herlong lived in the house another ten years until his death, leaving the six siblings the rundown Mansion. Although they all wanted the old southern home, only one of them could afford the expense…Inez Herlong-Miller. Inez was left a good amount of money when her husband Fletcher Miller died some years earlier, so she was the most likely candidate. She had enough money in fact, to buy out her remaining family and even enough left over to begin the much-needed repairs on the old Herlong Mansion. Although the whole affair was legal and business-like, the family was exceedingly angry with Inez for buying the home for herself, and it seemed like destiny that a family feud would result, which it did with no resolution. The feud was so bad that the five siblings would never speak to Inez again, nor would ever enter the mansion, thus leaving a painful rift between the Herlong siblings. Although Inez was adversely affected over the fighting, she was determined to restore the stately home to its original beauty with all the southern charm it had had years before.

Inez was successful in restoring a good portion of the old farmhouse into a beautiful and stately manner, reminiscent of the plantation homes of the 19^th century.  Nevertheless, although she was the victor in the family battle for the home, she had always regretted losing contact with her siblings and even more distraught that the feud had caused so much bitterness and alienation. Sadly, the family home she fought so hard for and put so much time and effort into was not to remain a refuge for her old age. Not too long after Inez had taken control of the home, she passed away as a result of a heart attack while sitting in her sister Mae’s childhood bedroom…A dream was lost.  Today, the Herlong Mansion remains an icon of architectural brilliance, denoting the builder’s love and historical pride that will always remain timeless. When you stay in one of the many rooms, you will get the feeling of old Florida, when life was far less stressful and much unhurried. In this tiny township, you will experience a small community mentality, where everyone truly knows each other, and works together as a fellowship should. Although you won’t find any fast paced bars or fast food restaurants here, nor giant multiplex theaters or mega game rooms, the city of Gainesville is only a few miles to the east of this quaint hamlet in case the peacefulness here is just too peaceful for you.  Indeed, as with all small towns, Micanopy has its own supernatural legend, and it’s no surprise that the Herlong Mansion is suspected to have a ghost residing within its stately halls and gorgeous bedrooms, as countless guests have told of their eerie experiences for many years. Because Inez Herlong-Miller had put so much effort and love into her family home, only finding peace while in her bedroom, and the adjoining pink room during her childhood and teen years, many believe it is her spirit who still finds refuge in the home she so loved in life. Although her spirit is hardly tormented, she maintains an almost constant vigil here, where her presence is almost always detected in one way or another. Though this spirit is often quiet, there is much more to the Herlong Mansion that meets the eye…The ghost of Inez Herlong.

 

 

A mothering spirit to some; yet intolerant of cads and miscreants

 

 

 Courtesy — The Herlong Mansion

 

For the most part, Inez’s spirit is one of a gentle nature, almost motherly in demeanor, as local legend suggests. I have not personally heard of or had experienced anything negative about this entity, yet it is believed that those who have a dark or sinister nature to them will not enjoy their stay here, thus cutting their visits short and sometimes even fleeing before their stay is finished. Although Inez will not behave like the typical Hollywood ghost, where it will jump out at you or heave objects; instead, an unfriendly visitor may have nightmares or experience bad feelings that will make he or she wish to abandon this bed & breakfast rather quickly. For most of us however, you will receive a deep, restful sleep that seems almost out of the ordinary. If you are to experience anything odd, however, it will most likely be of a whimsical nature, such as hearing strange noises, seeing the bedroom lights flicker or go off completely, only to go on again in a few seconds. Perhaps you will smell strange fragrances like flowers or perfume lingering through the hallways, or spot foggy images through the corners of your eyes, but certainly, nothing frightening. Although these are the most common phenomena witnessed, others have reported that when they awaken in the morning the overhead light will be turned on, and even more strange, the stereo that sits in the room will sometimes go on and off on its own accord. Moreover, as local legend tells, when you leave the bathtub half full overnight, strange things will happen. You may hear a light splashing coming from the bathroom area, or hear echoes of a voice, which cannot be comprehended. Sometimes the water will be completely drained, yet the plug will be set firmly in place.

Famed Gainesville-based parapsychologist and professor; Dr. Andrew Nichols has conducted research at the Herlong Mansion over the years. His findings appear to indicate that the Mansion falls under the auspices of the classical haunting, but as his field research is synonymous with tenacity, it’s a good bet his inquiry here is not entirely finished. Other paranormal researchers, including myself have stayed here in hopes to witness something out of the ordinary, and though the level of events fall under something more of a subliminal nature other than an out and out physical manifestation, indeed, some claim to have experienced the fantastic. My girlfriend and I stayed here while I was writing my first book about Florida haunts, years ago. It was both a romantic getaway, as well as to accommodate our combined ghostly research. As she had stayed here many times before, she knew exactly which room to choose and where to go in town. When we got to our room; Inez’s old room, she walked over to the dresser and picked up a diary. This book is placed there specifically so that guests may log in their experiences while staying in the room. Going back years, hundreds of past guests have jotted down their experiences ranging from a quiet night to the downright spooky. After settling in, we enjoyed a lively night in downtown Gainesville, and then returned to the Herlong for tea, and then to bed for a well-deserved rest. While she stayed up most of the night, waiting for the extraordinary, I fell asleep and slept a deep, thoroughly restful sleep I had not had since my childhood. In the late morning as we both awoke, we noticed that the overhead bed-board light was on, though neither of us remembered turning it on. And, though this certainly does not constitute a major paranormal event, it does nonetheless, make one take notice.

After having a wonderful breakfast in the parlor, we went to explore a little more before we would have to depart for home. After looking around on all the floors, getting a feeling of what it must have been like in Inez’s day, we finally ended up in the drawing room. Here, we found several videotapes of the aforementioned films Doc Hollywood and Cross Creek, which were filmed in Micanopy, as well as another tape, which had no title. As the Herlong Mansion invites its guests to watch the television in the drawing room, we decided to have a look at this videotape. The video contained documentary-style footage of several men going underneath the Herlong Mansion, in what appeared to be a hidden chamber. Although no one is exactly sure what it was originally used for, many suspect it was a room used to put either slaves or servants there when they angered their masters. Some have suggested it was used as a fruit cellar, but the location and layout is designed far too bizarre for such a time-honored tradition. Yet, there are some that believe that this room served another purpose…As a secret occult meeting chamber.  The room below the mansion’s foundation has very odd dimensions. Although it is uncertain to discern the original diameter of this room, because of the decomposition of the ground over the years, some believe that the original estimations were 6-feet wide, by 6-feet across, by 6-feet deep, resulting in the doomed number of 666! Regardless the implications of this particular number, some to the contrary believe that the original measurement across were more like 777, which sounds a bit less threatening, and in fact has its roots in “goodly magick.” Though this room remains something of a mystery to this day, many suspect that some form of mystic order may have held their meetings here many years ago, although there are no historical documents to prove its existence. Moreover, this video showed these urban explorers finding a tattered piece of paper, faded and aged, with either the words “Help Us” or “Help Me” written on it. Without a doubt, something nefarious might have been occurring here so long ago, though today it remains yet another Herlong Mansion mystery for the records.

Although there have been no reported physical manifestations or apparitions of Inez, the sounds of doors slamming and footfalls on the second floor, when there would be no guests staying there add to the haunting enigma. Though rare, this event seems to have its origins almost immediately after Inez’s death. Apparently, when the mansion was purchased to be used for a bed & breakfast Inn, the owners hired a mid-western construction company to complete the work. Although Inez was able to begin the refit of the stately southern mansion, her untimely death ceased her original plans. Fortunately, the new construction crew was able to understand Inez’s wishes, and began work. During those days, there was no electricity in the house, so the workers could only work while there was sunlight shining in and by candlelight in the evening. The men had to sleep in the drawing room downstairs in order to get some fresh air from the open windows. One evening, while they were just getting to sleep, they began to hear footsteps on the floor above them, pacing back and forth. Then, they heard doors slamming, which naturally put them on alert, thinking that someone had broken in. As the men raced up stairs to seize the intruder, they found no one; not a soul. After the second night of this, the legend of the haunted Herlong house was born. It seems that on occasion Inez will reenact this scene. Perhaps she wants to make a statement, or perhaps she’s just playing games with the living, either way, she occasionally gets noticed. Though events like these are indeed rare, the most you can expect is a gentle feeling of being watched over, or hearing the water splash in the bathtub when left half-full. Perhaps a light will flicker, or the radio in your room will turn on by itself, and just maybe you will catch the gentle hint of perfume in the air, yet never feel threatened by the kind-hearted spirit of Inez, the Herlong Mansion’s resident house mother…Unless, of course, she doesn’t like you.

When it was time to leave the beautiful Herlong Mansion Bed & Breakfast Inn, we were saddened, as it was one of those occasions we would not forget. Not because there was expensive champagne or caviar waiting in the rooms, nor was it the amenities we have become so accustom to in our fast-paced society today. No, the Herlong Mansion was designed to cater to an older, more refined since of appeal, for a person that knows how to relax and appreciate a style and particular class of long ago. If you are going on your first honeymoon or your second or third, the Herlong Mansion would be a wise choice. Or, if you have a desire to get away from it all, turning off the cell phones and iPads, and enjoy a good book instead (if you can do that), or just wish to escape for a romantic interlude, then the Herlong Mansion will only add to that special occasion… If however, you are looking for a ghost, this should be your haunted destination as well.

 

Considerations

 

The spirit of Inez Herlong is anything but scary, as she behaves more like a mother than anything frightening. When I slept in her room, my sleep was so peaceful that words cannot describe. It seemed as soon as I got into bed that I knew I was staying in a good place, while all the time, having the feeling as though I were being watched over by someone who truly cared for me. When we awoke to find the soft-colored bed light turned on above us, we both felt comforted regardless of the strangeness of such an event. It seemed as if we were being gently awakened so not to miss breakfast, which would have been unfortunate, as breakfast at the Herlong Mansion should not be missed for any reason.  This bed & breakfast does indeed appear to be haunted. As it has all the right attributes of a classic haunting, the cold spots in locations around the home where there should be none are common here, as well as the presence of odd, floral scents, and flickering lights only add to this assessment, but more than anything else supernatural here, I would have to say the feeling of a presence stands out the most. Perhaps it’s the child in all of us that remembers feeling safe when our parents assured us everything would be all right when we were afraid of the dark, or when a thunderstorm raged outside. It’s that feeling of reassurance one gets at the Herlong Mansion…As if Inez watches over her guests.

When traveling north, central Florida, be sure to visit the bustling city of Gainesville. See the many sights this college town has to offer, but take a few hours to stop by the charming little town of Micanopy. If you have some special time to set aside for that special occasion, spend a night or two at the Herlong Mansion. You’ll be glad you did.  Enjoy the gentile nature the staff offers here, and delight in the amenities of old Florida today and relax a bit. If you are fortunate enough to feel the presence of Inez, then simply say thank you for staying in the mansion she called home for the majority of her life…As apparently, she still does.

 

Planning a trip? Check out these links for a look at this peaceful little town, and be sure to stop for a night or two at one of Florida’s last towns of yesterday.

 

The Herlong Mansion is located at 402 N.E. Cholokka Boulevard in Micanopy, Florida and may be reached for reservations at (352) 466-3322  

http://www.herlong.com/

 

http://gainesvilleguru.wordpress.com

 

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g34444-d75168-Reviews-Herlong_Mansion_Bed_and_Breakfast_Inn-Micanopy_Florida.html 

 

http://welcometomicanopy.com/ 

 

http://www.micanopytown.com/ 

 

http://preservation.myfloridahistory.org/micanopy-fl/

  

http://www.micanopyfallfestival.org/

 

       

The Huguenot Cemetery — Old Bones Tell Many Tales

The Huguenot Cemetery

        As I have the chance to travel quite a bit, especially during business, I always stop over in the Sunshine State, where I always visit the ancient city of St. Augustine. After meetings and interviews; sampling the cuisine and pubs, I love to stroll down the back streets after dark, to observe the architecture, the easy-going feeling one gets in this lovely city, and of course, to pay respects to the dead. Indeed, St. Augustine has its share of ancient cemeteries. From the St. Augustine National Cemetery, which opened its gates in 1828; and the Evergreen Cemetery, established in 1886 and even a mock graveyard known as The Cemetery of Innocence that represents the over 4000 babies killed by abortion in the United States each year, to the more antiquated bone yards like the San Lorenzo Cemetery, one of the oldest Catholic cemeteries in the nation, established during the 1600s, and the Tolomato Cemetery, which began intake during the Revolutionary War period, the ancient city has a good deal of history to boast of. Yet, out of them all, I have always had a particular calling to a tiny little grave yard known as the Huguenot Cemetery.

The Huguenot Cemetery is an essential site of interest in the ancient city, as this cemetery holds more than its share of historical figures, and where many believe holds more than its share of ghosts too. The Huguenot Cemetery, one of St. Augustine’s original “Publik Burying Grounds” became very popular when a yellow fever epidemic hit the city in 1821, not long after Florida became part of the United States. The name “Huguenot” refers to the French adventurers and explorers, as well as to their influence, but also once referred to those of the non-Catholic faith, which made up a small denomination in the city. The cemetery officially opened after the yellow fever epidemic ravished St. Augustine, holding hundreds of victims and hundreds more in unmarked graves surrounding it, where the grounds continued to be used until the summer of 1884. Though the Huguenot cemetery is catered by the city’s first Presbyterian Church today, its visitors will no doubt see this cemetery as a quaint and aesthetically pleasing graveyard of antiquity; while the many locals will recognize it as a final refuge to many a horrific event in their city’s past. Certainly, as with most places in St. Augustine, the Huguenot Cemetery has its share of restless spirits and haunted legends, and there isn’t one ghost tour in the ancient city to forget the story of Judge John B. Stickney, and the plight of his earthly remains. His story is more than a story of a ghostly visitor from the grave in search of something, it’s a story that warns the living to show respect to the dead and to disturb the dead under any circumstances — Let sleeping bones lie!

 

 

The legend of a perturbed public official and a little ghost named Elizabeth

The Huguenot Cemetery, surrounded by a brick wall and a black iron fence, encompassed by huge oak trees that are flowered with low hanging Spanish moss, creates a look right out of ‘Walt Disney’s Haunted Mansion.’ Truly, it would be an injustice for such an atmospheric location not to have at least one truly good ghost story attached to it. And sure enough, the Huguenot has its share of such stories. Many claim to see the spirits of little children sitting on the posts, and walls of this monument, as well as the tombstones within, most likely the victims of the yellow fever outbreak of 1821, where many have been buried in mass graves. One of these little spirits is believed to be little Elisabeth, who has been witnessed dancing around the old city gates just east of the cemetery. She has also been seen near the Huguenot’s walls in the dead of night. In addition to these lively cast of spooks; though certainly spooky to behold for some, there’s one particular ghost out shines them all — The scrutinizing spectre of Judge John B. Stickney.  Judge Stickney, a widower with three small children had moved to St. Augustine shortly after the Civil War. The judge lived in the city until he died of typhoid fever in 1882 while visiting Washington, D. C. At the request of his last will and testament, his body was ordered to be returned to St. Augustine for burial in the Huguenot Cemetery. In 1903, long after the children had relocated to Washington D.C., wishing to be closer to their father, the children decided to have his body reburied closer to them. Perhaps this was not a good idea after all.  Late one evening, while the gravediggers were in the process of exhuming the grave of Judge Stickney, two drunken men chased the gravediggers away before the exhumation was complete. The Judge’s coffin, molding, and caving in from decay exposed his skeletal remains. The sight of these remains were nothing new to the two drunkards, as they had been in the business of grave robbing on many occasions before, had decided to have a look for something of value. Sure enough, the Judge’s gold-filled teeth shinned like a beacon when the grave robbers held their lantern over the coffin. Within a few seconds the men had pried the gold teeth out of the judge’s skull with their knives, and along they went with one of the best hauls they have had in years. Apparently, the Judge did not like this.

When the caretaker returned with the authorities, they found the opened coffin and most of the Judge’s remains, but in the process of steeling the gold teeth, the skull fell away from the rest of the skeleton, and disrespectfully discarded. Many legends surfaced that these grave robbers were found dead a short time later, but most of St. Augustine’s historians feel this is merely an urban legend to frighten off potential grave robbers. Although that tidbit of history may have been fabricated, another legend spouted that Judge Stickney had returned from the grave to seek out his belongings, specifically his gold teeth!  Reportedly, Judge Stickney had, and continues to been seen walking through the Huguenot Cemetery, complete in his burial regalia, consisting of a black top hat, and flowing black cape. Though a frightening description for sure, the Judge is almost always observed looking around the corners of tombstones and monuments, always with a determined look; a look of disgust and anger. Sometimes, the judge will be seen without a head, with nothing more than a black cape-like figure passing the graves like smoke. Other times, witnesses will spot the Judge sitting on a low hanging branch of one of the old oak trees, right over the spot of his original grave.

Although most who witness this determined spirit see him actively searching for something, some have claimed to have seen a headless man wandering through the cemetery aimlessly, looking more lost than on a mission. Though the skull of Judge Stickney was indeed said to have been removed by the grave robbers, we have to remember that these shameless cads of yesteryear might have been disrespectful to more than the Judge alone. As having gold teeth was certainly a popular dental procedure for the wealthy in the 1800s, it is likely that there were more victims over the years, victims who might also be haunting this cemetery. Certainly, we mustn’t forget the happy little spectre named Elizabeth. Though most of the city’s luminaries and historians either consider her a gimmick made up by enthusiastic ghost touring companies and authors, others feel that she was in fact the daughter of one of the gate sentries who occasionally brought his little girl with him to work. As she danced and played around the gates, visiting passerby’s entering and departing the city streets, she brought at least a little joy to the people, who struggled to make a life in a city that had its share of troubles. Little Elizabeth was a happy child around the age of 9 or 10, who is said to have worn a modest dress, and who always had a smile for all who met her. Indeed, if there must be ghosts, let them be the pleasant and joyful spectres like little Elizabeth.  The Huguenot is usually open during the morning hours, and with special permission from the historical society, tours may be provided. Although the cemetery is always locked and off limits in the evening, visitors can still take photos, or film over the low walls surrounding the rear section of cemetery. There is ample light here, and only footsteps from the old city gates, which leads to the Spanish Quarter, and is directly across the street from the Castillo de San Marcos.

The Huguenot Cemetery has attracted many paranormal investigators over the years, and many have gone away with the evidence they had hoped for. Many ghost hunters have been able to capture strange images in their photographs while exploring late at night. Some have caught the ever-mysterious orbs floating throughout the inner circumference of the cemetery, and on occasion, the shapes of people and human faces within the bark of the trees. Truly, the Huguenot Cemetery seems to hold many spirits, both of those tortured, and those seemingly enlightened. The Huguenot is a must see when visiting St. Augustine, Florida. Enjoy the sights of the ancient city, the shopping, the dinning, and all of this city’s unique offerings. Enjoy the history this city holds within its antediluvian boundaries, but absolutely never take someone’s gold teeth from their grave — You might just have someone, or something coming after them. Also, when passing the ancient gates, give your respects to the little spectre named Elizabeth, for she still dances and smiles to all the visitors.

 

 

 A ghost hunter’s photo of the cemetery at night

According to Ancetory.com:

 

Many colored people, their graves unmarked with an exception or two, lie in this yard. Since this yard was closed Protestants have buried in the cemetery on the outskirts of New, or West, St. Augustine. The old Catholic cemetery on Cordova St. within the ancient town lines is perhaps about the size of the old Protestant yard, but how it can contain the dead of 300 years, almost or quite, without placing them from 2 to 10 deep, I can hardly see. The new Catholic cemetery is outside the old gate, some distance, and to the east of the shell road. Near the Army Barracks (on St. Francis St.), south end of town, and connected therewith, a walled graveyard holds the victims of the Dade massacre, and a number of soldiers that have died at this post. An old graveyard, supposed to have been used by the Indians, perhaps those converted by the Catholic missionaries, is now covered by the Lynn House, south side of the Plaza.

We note that this is a partial listing, and that literally hundreds of yellow fever victims were buried in graves, atop one-another. Though there may have been a service for these victims, and a wooden cross placed over them, all evidence of their existence was lost over the march of time. Moreover, other graves, like that of Judge Stickney were relocated to other states, for various reasons. Regardless, the names that follow are those that have been kept to official record, and that have been identified by historical archaeologists and local historic organizations – May they rest in peace.

 

Here are the known graves:

• Row 1. Cromwell G. son of William and S. A. George died in Palatka, Fla. Oct. 20, 1881. Aged 5 years 18 days. This grave is about 7 feet from the south fence of the yard.

• Godfrey Foster, born Mch. 4, 1818, died Sep. 3, 1879. This and the preceding stone near each other and nearly alike.

• Flora Fairbanks, daur of C. & G. Foster, died Feb. 10, 1879, aged 25 years. Marble upright head and footstone.

• My husband P. O. Craddock born Sep. 22, 1824 – died Jan. 8, 1884. White marble head and footstone and wooden curbing. The four above graves are in the south-east corner of the yard – lot apparently one – 36 to 40 feet north and south, 9 to 10 feet east and west, paling fence partly down.

• Row 2. Mrs. Mary T. Smith a native of Liberty Co., Georgia, died at St. Augustine April 27, 1860. Aged 77 years. Stone erected by her daughter. Marble upright head and footstone.

• Row 3. An enclosed child’s grave with four substantial posts and 3 rails on each side – no monument.

• Mary Almyr Mickler, died Augt 7, 1882. This grave has a wooden headboard, and stands north-east of the two Meckler graves in the adjoining row, 4.
• Row 4. Doctor Wm Robertson – by his only child.

• Mrs. Ann Robertson – by her only child. Lot close against the south fence of the yard – 9 feet by 9 feet, raised a foot above the general surface and entirely covered with coquina and cement. A cast-iron railing enclosed the two raised tombs each with a broad white slab placed horizontally atop. Next the above lot northwardly a wooden curbed grave – no monument.

• Captain Robert Mickler – who was born at St. Mary’s, Georgia the 7th of May 1800, and died at St Augustine, Fla., 9th Dec. 1848. Aged 48 years, 7 mos., 2 days. A horizontal marble slab on cemented foundation – a cedar at north-east corner.

• James A. Mickler, died Jan. 29, 2878. Aged 53 years. A native of St. Mary’s, Georgia. Upright wooden head and footboard adjoins preceding northward.

• Mrs. O. Howes of New Haven, Conn., died May 29, 1883. A headboard in a lot with slatted curbing 2 feet high.

• Row 5. A large lot with cemented curb and paling fence above enclosing 3 graves – two adults and a child between; each grave with a cemented curbing and 3 cemented horizontal stones (apparently) at head. No inscriptions.

• Nancy Pinkham, died Jan. 31, 1876, aged 73 years. Erected by her niece S. J. Mitchell. Sallie Pinkham, died Sept. 11, 1875, aged 69 years. Erected by her niece S. J. Mitchell. Each of the Pinkham graves has erect marble head and foot stones on brick foundation. A large osage orange to the north of the S. Pinkham grave.

• George H. Emery, died July 30, 1880, aged -0 years. Only one figure of the age decipherable – doubtless an adult. Wrought iron fence in good condition, set in a cement foundation, under gate an iron plate with the name Emery. Lot 10 by 15 with paling fence around, contains several graves – one marked by a large cross another by a small headstone with the letters A. T. on it. Two large cedars, one at the north-east corner of the lot, the other at the foot of the cross-marked grave. A 3d small cedar at the lot’s north-west corner.

• To my husband John Manucy, born Dec. 24, 1820, died Oct. 20, 1879 – aged 59 yrs. 9 mos. 27 days. White marble head and footstone and white marble curbing. (Third Florida Inf. Co. B CSA) An adult’s grave with coquina head and footstone, both low. 6 feet north of the Manucy grave and east of the Whilden grave.

• Dr. J. Hume Simons. Lot with paling fence around – the size of one grave, and nailed to paling at head of grave a heart-shaped shield with zinc plat nailed to it containing above name.(from Charleston, South Carolina.

• A fond father and mother have caused this stone to be erected to the memory of their dutiful and affectionate son Edward S. Robinson, who departd this life 21st Oct. 1821 agd 20 y. 1 m. 8 d. A large cedar west of the broad marble upright headstone.

• Samuel Fleischman, son of Dirk and Elizabeth Fleischman born 6th Feb. 1807, died 18 Oct. 1821. Horizontal marble slab broken in two at centre, rests on brick foundation with marble corners. North of the above a coquina block with a depression for vertical headstone which is absent.

• Row 6. Robert Johnson Gibbs, obit Sep. 12, 1830. AEt. 23 years. Upright marble head and footstone within a brick walled enclosure – 7 by 9 feet. Grave in north portion of lot, and the lot is close against south fence of yard.

• Mrs. Ann Campbell, who departd this life May 3, 1836, aged 60. A marble horizontal slab on a brick foundation.

• Daniel W. Kissam, who departd this life on the 22d of March, 183-, in the 24th year of his age. He was a native of the City of New York. Inscription on a marble slab 3 feet 6 inches high and 2 feet wide, which rests against a large cedar. The trunk of this cedar has flattened out and at both __ upper corners overlaps the headstone. A large cedar also just outside of footstone – both trees apparently planted at one time.

• Freeman Foster, died Nov. 12, 1877. An upright marble head and footstone. Grave adjoins that of Daniel W. Kissam.

• Ella M Foster, died Augt 26, 1877. White marble upright head and footstone. Adjoins preceding.

• Maria Carman, who departd this life April 8, 1833, aged 40 years. Marble head and footstone – 2 feet high and wide.

• John B. Stickney, born in Lynn, Mass., May 25, 1832. Graduated at Yale College 1856. Died in Washington, D. C., Nov. 5, 1882. A blue and red marble monument of a number of pieces – nine to ten feet high.( Captain- 35th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry^[4]U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, 1876-82^[5]re-interred Washington, D.C.)

• Mrs. A. W. Bradford, born in Charleston, S. C., Mch. 31, 1816, died in St. Augustine, Feb. 9, 1881. Wooden head and footboard, with wood curbing around the grave. An acacia by the headboard.

• William R. Whilden, son of Elias and L.E. Whilden, Christ Church Parish, So. Car., who departd this life 23rd day of Oct. A. D. 1821. Aged 4 years 10 mos. 17 days. A horizontal marble slab on a coquina foundation.

• Row 7. Alfred Arnold, born in Ironstone, Mass. [?], May 1820, died in St. Augustine, Fla., April 1880. A white marble tablet set inside of a coquina obelisk, which with its supporting stones is 5 feet high.

• I. G. Happoldt, who departed this life 15 August 1821. Aged 53 years 3 months and 10 days. He was a native of Germany and long a respected citizen of Charleston. A white marble uprights slab – the roots of a large cedar pressed against the base of it.

• Ten feet south of the McKinney footstone in row 8, an enclosed grave with paling fence around in good condition. No stone.

• Row 8. Hectorina Kennedy Honfleur, daughr of John Grant, of Inverness, Scotland, died at St. Augustine, April 12, 1854, aged 43 yrs. Upright marble headstone – inscription on scroll.(born January 20, 1807 in Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Scotland^.

• J. E. Knowlton, died Augt 5, 1877, St. Augustine, aged 69 years. White marble headstone. This last tribute placed here by the bereaved children of Josias Campbell, who departed this life 3rd day of Sep. 1830, in the 52 yr. of his age. A native of Ireland.

• Also, Elizabeth Campbell, consort of Josias Campbell, who died 5 day of July 1830 agd 39 y. 6 m. 23 days. A native of Camden, So. Carolina. Also, in memory of their son Josias, who died on the 4th day of July 1830, agd 3 yrs. 3 mos. 7 days. A large horizontal marble slab containing the above – slab tilted and the south-west corner in the ground.

• Helen A. Hasseltine, died June 3, 1881, aged 46 years. A coquina obelisk on two base stones, inscription on marble tablet set in one of the faces east of the obelisk.

• A coquina horizontal block without inscription east of the north line of the Stanbury lot. Covering perhaps a child’s grave.

• Alexander McKinney, born 1818, died Feb. 28, 1882. Erected by his beloved children. Upright white marble head and footstone. Close to footstone a red cedar, and 3 feet north of centre of grave another.
• Mrs. Mary C. Furguson, of Charleston, S. C., who died 3d day of Novemr 1830, aged 34 years. Stone erected by her bereaved husband. Horizontal marble slab – directly adjoining the Josias Campbell tomb.

• Joseph Lord, born in New York, Mch. 1832, died in St. Augustine, Jan 12, 1880. White marble vertical tomb of 3 pieces, also footstone. These last two graves are between the Campbell and the Hasseltine graves.

• Row 9. Captain Edmund Hart, of New York, who died on the 24th of December, 1830, aged 26 years and 4 months. A marble slab on a raised foundation.

• Dear Adell (perhaps Triay), died Oct. 29, 1877, aged 10 years. A marble head and footstone.

• Captain Giles Tenker, from Adams, Mass., who died Jan. 1, 1833, aged __ years. Head and footstone. A large hawthorn with ob-ovate leaves having a rusty ___ surface close to headstone. ‘

• Mary Page Hinckley, died Dec. 2, 1877. Otis Hinckley, died Nov. 17, 1877. Each marked by a large coquina cross and coquina footstones – a square marble tablet set in face of the latter.

• Gustavus Beall, a native of Washington City, D. C., born Sep. 20, 1823, died Feb. 9, 1848. A horizontal marble slab which has been moved to one side, and the coquina foundation has fallen out. A locust at west end of tomb.

• J. Downing Stanbury, died Nov. 23, 1877. Vertical marble head and footstones with coquina bases.

• Downing Haydn Stanbury, died Jan. 10, 1878. Small marble cross and footstone – a child’s grave.

• Manuel Crespo, died June 30, 1859; aet. 63 yrs. Head and footstone.
• Annie A. Lewis, born 1837, died Sep. 29, 1881, 44 yrs. old. A tall post – the board containing inscription, completing a cross.

• Rev. Wilbur F. Nields, who died Mch 2, 1867, aged 26 years. He was elected to the rectorship of Trinity Church, St. Augustine, Fla. He came but God called him before he assumed the duties of his office. A marble headstone. A rose shrub at foot and a cedar against the edge of headstone, planted, to judge from its size at time of interment.

• Elizabeth M. Lewis, born Feb. 9, 1880, died Aug. 27, 1881, agd 1 yr. 6 mos. 18 d. A three feet high cross – inscription on cross-piece. Row 10. A raised tomb of coquina – one of the blocks forming its roof broken from place. Against this tomb there is an old and large sized oleander. No inscription.

• George Bartlett, a native of the State of New Hampshire – and a member of the fraternity of Ancient York Masons – who died in the city of St. Augustine, of which he had been for ten years a respected inhabitant, on the 29th of June, Anno Domini, 1844, aged 40 years. This tribute placed for his sleep’g remains by his bereaved and affectionate mother, Martha P. Bartlett. A broad horizontal marble slab on a coquina base – 24 inches high.

• Lillie S. Johnson, died Aug. 8, 1879, aged 4 years. Wooden head and footboard enclosed within a paling fence. An oblong cement block, covering perhaps a child’s grave – without inscription – to the eastward of the Carpenter grave. East of the centre of the Dummett-Madison lot of Row 11 there ___ a water oak, 14 or 15 inches in diameer, and 8 feet eastward of ___ centre of a depression, 4 feet across and 8 or 10 inches below the surface. East of the north line of the D.-M. lot a youngish cedar, with a group of lilies at its base, and 7 feet still further east a large magnolia grows there with a trunk 18 inches near the base, and in a circle around that narcissi or jonquils. Here we have, without doubt, one or two graves without other mark. The magnolia is 10 or 12 feet slightly east of north of the oblong cement block.

• East of the mound, north of the Wm Thomas, Jr’., grave, there is a wooden headboard, but the inscription is absent.

• Israel A. Smith, who died Sep. 1, 1830 aged 20 years and 6 mos. A heavy white marble monument on a raised brick foundation.

• Maria Frances, daut of Jackson Browne French of Burlington, New Jersey, who died Feb. 4, 1832 aged 29 years. Head and footstone.

• Mrs. Lydia Boyce, a native of Newberry District, So. Car., who departed this life on the 27th day of September, 1830, aged 40 years. A white marble monument.

• John Scobie, a native of Perthshire, Scotland, who departed this life August 31, A.D. 1841, aged 64 years. Margaret Westry, wife of Nathaniel C. Scobie, born March 25, 1810, died Dec. 6, 1850. These two horizontal slabs on raised coquina foundation.

• Carpenter, ____ 1883. This inscription on marble tablet which is let into the upper face of a moulded slab of coquina. The slab is slightly titled and lies east of the Margaret W. Scobie slab.

Thomas H. Dummett (Once owner of the St. Francis Inn)

• Thomas H. Dummett, who departed this life the 31st of Aug. 1839, aged 64 years. (Colonel British Army, from Barbados: former owner St. Francis Inn, plantation owner, son Douglas Dummett)

• John Houston M. J. Madison, born May 5, 1820, died Dec. 20, 1853 and his son John Ripley Madison, born March 26, 1851, died May 6, 1852. The slightly depressed lot containing the above two horizontal stones is curbed, and midway of the east curbed line there is a block inscribed with the names Dumett-Madison. Two children’s graves directly adjoin preceding, the western one with glazed brick edging to it, the other with wite marble edging and headstone containing the name Willie.

North of this line of graves and southeast of the Douglas Pacetti grave are the two following: Single grave with cement curb and head and footboard but no inscription – an evergreen enonymus with curbing. A grave with palings around in very shaky condition – no mark. Directly adjoining above north -

• Rebecca Nattiel, died April 11, 1879, aged 72 years.
• Another similar headboard contains simply the letters J.N. Perhaps husband of R.N. A nicely curbed lot, the ground within depressed. No stones. The north side of lot two feet from the north fence. Southeast of the just-mentioned curbed lot, the corners touching, there is a large lot filled with lilies, not yet in flower, surrounded with a paling fence. Also a single grave north of this with fence surrounding it – a large water oak against its north side. No monuments in either enclosure.

• Wm Thomas, Jr., of New York City, who departed this life Dec. 27, 1840, aged 23 years. Marble head and footstone.

North of and directly adjoining the above a mound, and adjoining this mound northwardly another and shorter – Neither marked. As the Thomas grave and these two are so close together, the interred may be related. These succeed, through some distance – 10 feet north – from the two children’s graves mentioned above on this page.

• Row 12. A mound with two graves covering the east end of it – the more southerly has a cedar tree against its footstone. – No Inscriptions. The adjoining lot with coquina curbing has an obelisk at its centre – this of granite on several foundation stones – the lowest of coquina 6 ft square.

• Mrs. Julia G. Smith – who died in New York December, 1861. Erected by her husband Buckingham Smith, who died in New York Jan. 1871. A cedar in this lot has pushed one of the stones of the curbing aside. A headstone – broken – remnant 18 inches square, simply rests against the inner face of curbing of Julia G. Smith lot.

• Contains following inscription: William C. Kent, of Utica, New York, who died Hannah Smith, wife of late Josiah Smith, who died in November, 1857, aged 80 years. Marble head and footstone.

• Anita Amelia Smith, wife of Dr. John E. Porter, surgeon U.S. army, and daughter of Josiah and Hannah Smith of St. Augustine, born Feb. 18, 1815 – died July 25, 1850. A 6×10 marble table on raised coquina foundation, with marble slab containing inscription resting on the former.

• Sarah S. Williams, wife of John Williams, and daughter of Lemuel and Sarah Williams, of New Bedford, Mass. She died 25th Feb. 1839, aged 27 years. Vertical head and footstone. Cast iron fence around lot in good condition.

• Charlotte Smith, Daut of David Smith and Laura Ufford, born at Pitcher, Chenango Co., New York, 8 May 1833. – Died at Saint Augustine 6th Dec. 1877. Upright heavy granite headstone with two granite foundation stones below.

• Oscar Ashton, born Jan. 21, 1839, died May 8, 1960. Vertical head and footstone – a water oak 14 inches in diameter west of headstone.

• Douglas D. Pacetti, born March 11, 1862, died June 12, 1879. Wooden headboard with paling fence around grave – an Acacia Farnesiana within fence. The wooden headboard has been replaced by marble head and footstone. A child’s grave with paling fence around, a cherry laurel within 6 ft of stone.

• Matlida DeLancy, died Dec. 23, 1875, aged 77 years. Erected by her affectionate daughter. A low vertical head and footstone of marble on cement foundation.

• Row 13. A raised tomb of coquina and cement – a child’s perhaps – half the top is missing. No inscription.

• Charles Burt, died Jan 4, 1877, ae. 22 y. 7 m. 3 d. Alice Burt, died July 25, 1854, ae 2 years, 3 mos.

• Lucy Rockwell, wife of Geore Burt, and daut of Dr Seth S. and Sarah Peck, born at Whitesborough, N. Y., July 8, 1827, and died in this city March 27, 1857. The above has marble slab on raised marble foundation – an orange tree against latter. A curb surrounds lot with wrought railing. Adjoining lot to above has curb and iron rail, with at least one sunken grave, but not stone.

• W. E. Luddington, of New Haven, Connecticut., died May 1, 1884. Wooden headboard and light fence around.

• John H., son of Arthur Milliken, of Troy, N. Y., who died Apr. 23, 1839, aged 24 years. Upright head and footstone.

• Mrs. Rachel Gerty died May 2, 1863. Vertical headstone.

• J. W. S. McNeil, of the 2nd Regiment of Dragoons. He was killed in the 21st year of his age in battle with the Indians of Florida on the morning of the 10th of September, 1837, by Uchee Billy, a chief of the Seminoles. He was the son of Gen. John McNeil, of new Hamphsire – late of the U.S. Army, and grandson of the late Gov. Pierce of the same state. (Reinterred St. Augustine National Cemetery Gov. Benjamin Pierce:; father-in-law of Gen. McNeil) A marble slab lying horizontally on a raised coquina foundation – a good sized water oak between this and the grave to the eastward of Oscar Ashton.

• Nancy Townsend, of Sherburn, Mass., wife of Rev. S. B. Townsend, and daughter of Josiah Hunt of Seekonk. She died Feb. 4, 1832, aged 36 Vertical head and footstone.

• Marie Antoinette, daughter of Robert and Rosa Mason, born Dec. 17, 1879, died Dec., 4, 1880. Marble head and footstone. A grave marked by coquina head and footstone – no Inscription.

• A grave adjoining the above with board. 10 feet from north fence.

• Row 14. Mrs. Sarah Peck, died Aug. 16, 1879. Mother. Aged 88 yrs. 10 mos. Vertical marble head and footstones resting on granite bases.

• Dr. Seth S. Peck, born Aug. 9, 1790, departed this life July 21, 1841, aged 50 yrs. 11 mos. A marble horizontal slab on raised cement base.

• A horizontal marble slab, resting upon raised coquina foundation, has its face so worn away that but a few letters are faintly seen – apparently these: _______ _____ __________ ______ derick ________ 70 or 60 ___________1830 These graves are surrounded by a cement curb in good condition. Two raised brick tombs in lot adjoining that of Dr Seth and Sarah Peck – the tops of these have fallen in – the covering stones perhaps removed.
• A third grave, perhaps, to south of these with cedar to head and foot. The curbing around these of coquina 30 to 36 inches high.

• James H. Bradford, M.D., born in Philadelphia, Nov. 4, 1802, died at St. Augustine, Apr. 9, 1859.

• Elizabeth Caldwell, wife of Edward Florens Rivinus, M.D., born at Philadelpphia, Jan. 15, 1814, died at St. Augustine, Apr. 22, 1856. This stone set mdiway of the lot, a cedar standing at the head of the grave, probably planted when interment was made. Lot including 2 above graves 7 feet by 9. The marble stones in this lot in good condition. Iron fence around.

• Edward M. Walker, a resident of Troy, N. Y., died Feb. 19, 1851, aged 34 years. Vertical head and footstones.

• Benjamin Franklin Tracy, a native of the State of Connecticut, and a merchant of Painesville, Ohio, who died at this place on the 6th of January, 1834, aged 37 years, 2 mos. 21 days. A vertical headstone.

• James Burr Griswold, son of Zachariah Griswold, of New York, who died of consumption May 3, 1829, aged 22 years. A vertical headstone.

• Catherine Burrell, born at Old Gretna, Scotland, January, 1803, died at St. Augustine, Fla., May 28, 1878, aged 75 yrs. 5 mos. Wooden head and footboards. The grave next to Cath. Burrell’s contains a small wooded cross, and is surrounded by a wooden curbing. Two large oleanders within the curbing and at diagonally opposite corners.

• Daniel A. White, born Mch 22, 1817, at Brockport, New York, died Augt 16, 1880, at San Mateo, Fla. This grave has marble head and footstones and marble curbing.

• Row 15. Absalom H. Valentine, of Brooklyn, Long Island, who died on a tour for his health at St Augustine, May 2, 1835, aged 42 years and 16 days. His tender care will long be remembered by his bereaved widow and mourning friends. Part of inscription. An upright marble slab – and headstone and footstone.

• Mrs. Mary Moody, wife of Dr. Moody, of Burlington, Vermont, who died at St Augustine the 9th of March, 1829, agd 22 years. – Portion of inscription. A horizontal slab on a brick foundation raised 24 to 30 inches.

• Charles H. Allen, died A.D. 1870, agd (10 or 15) years. A wooden headboard in lot enclosed by paling covered with Smilax laurifolls or Stamnoides.

• Jane Frances Winfred Murray, consort of George Murray, Esq of St Augustine, E. F., and daughter of George and Sarah P. Anderson, born Sept. 6, 1801, at the Grand Caicos, one of the Bahama Islands, Died Apr. 7, 1826. An inscription of 12 lines following the above. A horizontal marble slab on raised marble foundation, with pillard corners. South side and two corner pillars of this tomb recently thrown down and slab moved.

• Gad Humphreys, obt. Augt 31, 1859, aged 73 years. Requiescat in pace. A tribute of Filial affection. A flat slab on marble faced raised foundation. Mother – on marble headstone. M.S.H. (monogram) on footstone. Large lot. The two above graves within 18 inche high curbing of cement.

• Zenas Clapp, of Salina, Onondaga Co., New York, who died 29 January, 1837, aged 41 years. Five lines of inscription below. A vertical marble head and footstone. Quite a number of graves, unmarked, in this row.

• Row 16. Mr. Jesse Baldwin, who departed this life on the 14th of March, 1835, aged 34 years. – 5 lines of inscription below. A vertical marble slab. This grave close to the following.

• Mrs. Ann S. Putnam, who departed this life the 31st of August, 1831, aged 68 years. Mrs. Putnam’s grave with posts at 4 corners connected by slats.

A vertical marble slab. This stone of same height as the above, but outline at top different. They however seem to belong together. Louisa Charlotte Izard, daut of Ralph and Elizabeth Izard, of South Carolina, who died on the 22d of January, 1825, etatis 31. Vertical marble slab on raised brick foundation.

• Underneath this stone are deposited the remains of Col. Charles W. Bulow, of Charleston, So. Car., who died on the 1st of May 1823, aged 44 years. Horizontal marble slab on raised marble-faced foundation. The flat slab out of place, and one corner marble post loosened.

• Ellen Isabella, daut of John Wheeler, D.D., of Vermont, wife of Rev. Joseph H. Myers, died Augt 11th 1854, agd 30 years. Three lines of inscription below. A vertical marble headstone on stone base. Lot enclosed with broad cement curbing surmounted by wrought railing and cast iron posts.

• James Holt, of New York, who died Feb. 19, 1835, aged 37 years, 1 month. A vertical headstone 26 to 30 in. broad, and footstone. These between the fences of preceding and following.

• Helen Porter, daughter of Moses H. Baldwin, departed this life March 16, 1859, in the 16th year of her age. A vertical headstone. A fine white marble box, seven feet high, with considerable carving on it. Lot enclosed with a fence of nine granite posts with lines of wrought iron bars uniting them.

• Joseph Hunter, Esqr., a native of Ballymore, County Antrim, Ireland. For a long time a respectable planter of Mosquito, Died May 14, 1836, aet. 30 years. This memorial is erected by his only child, M.A.H.

A marble horizontal slab on raised marble faced foundation. Lot enclosed with iron fence. Mrs. _________, 1841. A bit of stone with this inscription. In a lot with cement (over coquina) curbing level with the ground without it.

• Harry Wilbur, son of James and Carrie Goss, who died Sep. 3, 1874, aged 10 years. A marble head and footstone James Goss, died Nov. 20, (or 26), 1877, aged 37. A wooden head and footboard. Each of these two lots enclosed in a paling fence now in weak condition L. B. A narrow headboard a foot high. The footboard between the graves of Harry W. and James Goss.

• Rachel T. Goodrich, Feb. 19, 1842; Apr. 27, 1869. A low broad granite stone. The grave directly adjoining, northwardly, that of –

• James Goss. M. R. Castle, son of Martin Castle, of Connecticut, died Nov. 28, 1878. aged 4 mos. 16 days. A marble vertical headstone.

• Lizzie McDonald, who died May 7, 1875, aged 36 years. This grave is west of the preceding; has a high marble headstone; and is enclosed with four posts single uniting rails.

• Row 17. John Drysdale, who died 24 May, 1845, aged 62 years. Ann Drysdale, daur of John and Lois H. Drysdale, born on the 22nd of June 1823; died at St. Augustine, 14 January 1844. Forty lines of inscription, the last words of which are “beloved friend and pastor, Rev. Joseph H. Rutledge, of Trinity Church of St. Augustine.”

 

• Thomas W. Drysdale, who departd this life at St. Augustine, 11th day of October, 1841,in the 17th year of his age. Thirteen lines of inscription follow.

The above, each covered with horizontal marble slab on raised cement foundation, differ only in length. The middle slab is quite a foot longer than the other two. A low coquina curb around the three.

• Elizabeth Mary Hanson, wife of J.M. Hanson, obit May 14, 1838, aged 82 years. Eleven lines of inscription follow. A horizontal marble slab on a brick raised foundation. Space for another grave. This lot cement curbed.

• Henry V. S. Frey, son of Henry and Elizabeth Frey. He was born at Palatine, in the State of New York, 27th day of Dec. 1807, and died at S. Augustine, 8th day Jan. 1830, aged 22 years, 12 days. A high, vertical headstone.

• Erected to the memory of Lieut. Stephen Tuttle of the United States Corps of Engineers, a native of the State of New Jersey, who departd this life Jan. 21, 1835, aged 36 years. This stone, perhaps once erect, now lies horizontally, partly covering the raised cement grave. (Reinterred St. Augustine National Cemetery)

• Lucy, wife of F.E. Mitchell, died Feb. 18, 1884, aged 42 years. A low marble headstone and footstone.

• Rev. Parker Adams of New Hartford, Oneida Co., New York, who died in St. Augustine, 10th day of June, 1835, aged 56 years. A vertical marble head and footstone.

• Marian Anita and John Cobb, infant children of George and Louisa H. Washington. (No dates.) (On the footstone there are 3 initials, M. A. W., J. C. W., and J. A. W.) Low marble head and footstone within a fence of posts and light square rails.

• Jonathan Olivar Whaley, born Oct. 18,1879: died June 11, 1880, aged 8 months. A wooden headboard and wooden curb to grave.

• Edward McGraw, born May 18, 1863; died Nov. 16, 1877. A low wooden headboard. A low wooden headboard two feet away from above with inscription destroyed: perhaps a relative of E. McG. *Venice Johnson, born 1859; died Nov. 23, 1874. The inscription just decipherable. The head and footboard painted black; perhaps grave of colored man or woman.

• Lewis Drysdale, died Dec. 2, 1857, aet. 27. Perhaps other persons buried in western part of lot. A horizontal slab considerably moved. This grave is in the western part of the Drysdale lot, the wall of which is in a ruinous condition.

• Row 18. A sacred Dedication by an affectionate mother to the memory of her son, Alfred Robinson, born at Richmond, Virginia, Oct. 26, 1815; died 1st of Decem. 1834, aged 19 years, 1 mo. 5 d. A vertical slab and footstone.

• Mrs. Mary, wife of Rev. Aaron Warner, of Medford, Mass., who died June 12, 1834, aged 45 years. A vertical head and footstone.

• Andrew J. Peck, son of G. D. Peck, M.D., and Mrs. S. F. Peck, of Milford, Mass., drowned near Saint Augustine, Apr. 19, 1835, aged 20. An upright head and footstone.

• Erastus Nye, of Onodaga Co., New York, who died January 12, 1835, aged 35 yrs. 6 mos. An upright headstone.

• John Lyman, of Southampton, Mass., died January 20, 1835, aet. 26 years. An upright headstone.

• John Gifford Hull, of Dutchess Co., New York, born May, 1808; died January 1835. An upright headstone.

• David Merriman, of Watertown, Conn. A vertical headstone buried so that balance of inscription cannot be copied.

• Nellie Van Dorn, died Oct. 10, 1875, aged 8 years, 10mos. 11 days. Wooded headboard with paling fence around lot in frail condition.

• Row 19. Col. Lucious D. Mower, of Granville, Ohio, who departed this life whilst on a visit to this city for the benefit of his health on the 19 day of Feb. 1834, aged 41 years. An upright head and footstone.

• Hardinia M. Burnley, daughter of Hardin and Mary Burnley, of Hanover Co., Virginia, died 6 March 1834, of consumption, aged 24 years, 7 mos. An upright headstone. (A grave with heavy wooden curbing, but no inscription adjoining the above.)

• Matthew Peck, a native of Berlin, Conn., who died after a lingering illness June 5, 1834, in the 39th year of his age. A square column with capital and base, and obelisk above, of course grained marble.

• Ella Bond Reynolds, born Dec. 10, 1862; taken home Nov. 28, 1877. A vertical marble headstone. A grave enclosed with iron railing adjoining above, but no tombstone.

• Row 20. Eliza C Whitehouse, who died in this city (St. Augustine) 3 June, 1838, aged 52 years. A flat slab on the marble faced raised foundation.

• Charles Downing, who departed this life Nov. 24, 1841, in the 45th year of his age. A native of Virginia, he removed to Florida and early became identified with the prosperity of the Territory. He frequently served in the Territorial Legislature, and was twice elected to the Congress of the United States. Ardent, bold, and generous to a fault, he was beloved in life and died universally regretted. A marble slab on a raised coquina foundation.

• Eliza Archer, died Nov. 20, 18(73) or 78, aged 45 years. A wooden headboard.

• Joseph L. Smith, died May 25, 1846, aet. 69. A colonel in the army of the United States in the War of 1812, and sometime judge of the Superior Court in the Territory of Florida. To great assiduity in the performance of his duties he united a dignity and learning which adorned his office, and to a commanding presence were added the higher attributes of distinguished ability. Marble upright head and footstones with iron railing.

• Dr. Samuel Robinson, a native of Attleboro’, Mass., and during 18 years a celebrated physician of Indiantown, N.C. From early life he was a sincere and consistent Christian, and a number of his last years were much devoted to the Bible cause chiefly in the southern States. In 1824 he removed to Providence, R.I., where he became eminent as a mineralogist. He died in this place Feb. 17, 1826, in the 44th year of his age. Marble vertical head and footstone. A large cedar tree close to the footstone. A lot with two graves marked with cement headstones, but no inscriptions thereon. A smaller lot to north of above without stones. Both these are fenced.

Grave not marked during Leed’s 1893 survey:

• George C. Bowers: 1827 -1884, captain 10th Florida Infantry, Company I.

 

 

Resources:

 

 

Florida Department of State: Division of Resources. http://www.flheritage.com/ archaeology/cemeteries/index.cfm?page=Case_Studies

Adams, William R. St. Augustine and St. Johns County: A Historical Guide (P. 20)

Ancestery.com — http://wc.rootsweb.ancestry.com/cgi-bin/igm.cgi?op=GET&db= :2575316&id=I569870462

Haunted Places-To-Go. http://www.haunted-places-to-go.com/haunted-st-augustine.html

http://books.google.com/books/about/Florida_s_Ghostly_Legends_And_Haunted_Fo.html?id=KY3ta7poJvsC

Augustine.com http://www.augustine.com/vacation/business.php?bid=Ripleys_Ghost_Train

Ghozhunter http://ghozhunter.com/

 

 

International Researcher Spotlight: Offthetrails Paranormal Investigations (USA)

            

 

           During my research into the many haunts within the ancient city of St. Augustine, Florida, back in 2011, I had the chance to interview many of the proprietors and restaurateurs about their alleged hauntings and otherwise paranormal incidents. I was amazed to learn that St. Augustine is even more the hotbed for researchers to base their investigations, as literally hundreds of people from across the country, and in fact, the world, come to the ancient city to investigate tales of the strange and spooky — Understandable to me, as I’m one of these folks. Regardless, while interviewing Dr. Tina Danielson, then proprietor of the now defunct “Ms. Caroline’s Guest House,” I learned that there were several professional research teams to have investigated her B&B during that previous year. One of those groups was Off the Trails Paranormal Investigations (O.P.I.), a Florida-based group of paranormal researchers, who have a healthy inventory of active and past case well worth the study by other research groups.

            Though many of their investigations take place in the state of Florida, they do get around the country, as their website will attest. Off the Trails Paranormal Investigations consists of a 6, and sometimes 7 member group, which has worked for close to 4 years exploring the unknown; such as hauntings, poltergeist activity and many other aspects of the paranormal. This dedicated group includes MaryJo Fister, Greg Bush, Beau Indovina, Angel Indovina, Rob Mirabella, Dorothy Moorhead and resident psychic, Lisa Marie Durst-Smith. They research public and private locales, abandoned structures, cemeteries; living by their motto (and) the group’s moniker: “Verifying or disproving claims of paranormal activity in private residences and public buildings…”  The primary question the members ask during their investigation is simple: “Do we have choices when we die?  What is heaven or hell?  Do ghosts see us all the time?  Or do they know they’re dead?” are indeed questions we all might share, though the fact this group keeps in mind the realities of misidentification, fraud or the simple effects of folklore in action, regarding the alleged haunting or paranormal activity is what makes this group stand out — They go in honest, and offer an honest answer when they’re finished with their investigation.  

             All the members have experienced various forms of evidence of the afterlife; both positive and negative, and continue to strive for more knowledge and understanding of the things that challenge the thinking mind.  They claim to arrive at each investigation with a healthy skepticism, “not willing to see a ghost behind every noise or feeling, but with a willingness to research and with open minds.” Their mission is simple: Collect data, review, and try to offer logical reasons for the incidents.  If there doesn’t seem to be any logical reasoning for such behaviors, however, then they acknowledge that such an event may be paranormal in nature, though they keep their skepticism in check.  Each group member uses various types of equipment, though each feels their “minds” are the best piece of equipment they could have –Well said 

 

The Team Members

 

MaryJo Fister:  Co-Lead Investigator, Researcher

Ms. Fister has had many experiences with the paranormal throughout her life, and has used those experiences as fuel to discover the truth about the paranormal activities that she and many others have felt.

Greg Bush:  Co-Lead Investigator

Mr. Bush has also had many personal experiences with the paranormal and has set out on a quest to document proof of paranormal activity.  Mr. Bush is also Case Manager for the team.

Will Indovina:  Investigator

Mr. Indovina brings with him a wide range of experience in paranormal investigating and puts that to good use in utilizing his own personal investigative style.

Rob Mirabella:  Tech Specialist and Investigator

Mr. Mirabella utilizes his extensive knowledge of our equipment to optimize our investigative abilities and is a proven investigator in his own right.

Angela Indovina:  Investigator

Ms. Indovina has had her own personal experiences with the paranormal since the age of 2, and has a strong curiosity, combined with a healthy dose of skepticism to balance out her investigative talents.

Lisa Marie Durst-Smith:  Psychic Medium and Investigator

Ms. Durst-Smith adds her expertise as a sensitive to give us an added dimension and yet another tool in our quest to unravel the mysteries of the paranormal.  In the short time she has been a part of the team, her insight and abilities have proven invaluable.

OPI has many ongoing investigations, and has a hearty line-up for this year, so if you wish to join them; or for more information about this group, or to arrange an investigation at your home or business, you can contact them via their website or by email directly.

Website: www.offthetrailsparanormalinvestigations.org 

And if your a fan of travel, check out their other site:  http://www.offthetrails.com 

Email: mjandg@offthetrailsparanormalinvestigations.org

 

Facebook:: https://www.facebook.com/offthetrailsparanormalinvestigations

Miss Caroline’s Guest House — The legend of Lucy Abbott and a little ghost named Molly

Miss Caroline’s Guest House in its former glory 

 

            Recently, I completed my book: Haunted Inns, Pubs & Eateries of St. Augustine, a modest compendium of reputedly haunted locales in the ancient city. In my journeys; searching for new and updated legends of ghosts and creepy places, I was guided to 41 San Marcos Ave, near downtown St. Augustine, where rests a quaint Victorian-era home with a healthy dose of haunting tales and eye-witnessed accounts of, shall we say; paranormal activity? Until just recently, this home was known as Miss Caroline’s Guest House, a small, but pleasant bed and breakfast operated by Tina Danielson. In location is closed as an inn, according to my informants in the city, for reasons yet unknown, though a colleague of mine did say that there was nasty letters taped to the front door, apparently warning the public, and likely other renters from leasing their buildings or land to the former proprietor for reasons unknown. Regardless, it still holds good memories for many past guests.  

               Though there are a few innkeepers that do not wish to discuss their haunts, or who simply don’t believe in such things, the majority of this city’s innkeepers have been quite open about such topics, where most are more than happy to share their ghostly experiences. In the case of Tina Danielson, a retired medical physician turned proprietor and innkeeper of Miss Caroline’s Guest House, she is definitely a believer. In fact, her former website not only offered an excellent historical account of the home and the city that Tina called home, there’s also a bountiful catalog of spirits that haunt this fine Victorian inn. Without a doubt, there’s much more to this delightful home than meets the eye.  When I conducted my first interviews with Tina, she explained that Miss Caroline’s Guest House is actually known as a ‘Victorian Inn,’ which was modeled after the old lay-over inns of more than one hundred years ago, which catered to a more genteel society in transit. Such inns offered more than just a room and a morning meal, Tina’s inn offered breakfast and lunch, as well as a full restaurant that offered a wide variety of appetizers, soups and salads, sandwiches and hamburgers, not to mention an assortment of homemade bake goods, which she sold at her ‘Pumpkin Bread and Spice Café.’  

                  Though the atmosphere was both traditional and relaxing in every way, Tina is one of only a few innkeepers that offered services to another population, one I’m thoroughly familiar with — the ghost hunter and psychic, and those fascinated with all things paranormal. Sure, Miss Caroline’s Guest House did cater to the traditional clientele, offering such things as bridal showers, birthday parties, historic tours and even garden parties for local and visiting guests; she also offered paranormal investigations of the home, psychic-led investigations, psychic readings and fairs, and even ‘spirit board’ sessions for those enlightened vacationers. Indeed, Tina had to be the most open-minded physician I’ve ever met, and I have met many. Without a doubt, if there’s an inn throughout the ancient city that was open to such things as ghosts and hauntings, Miss Caroline’s was certainly one of them.                                             

                    Miss Caroline’s Guest House is a quaint, two-story, three-bedroom home that has been restored to its original glory, complete with antique furnishings, etched glass windows, heart of pine floors and authentic chandeliers. And though the surroundings reverberates an antiquated feel, the guest were offered modern conveniences too, save that of television sets, which might take away from the peaceful setting this inn boasts of. Miss Caroline’s Guest House is located right up the street from historic downtown, and is within walking distance of shops and boutiques, restaurants, attractions and the pristine Matanzas Bayfront. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, this inn had an illustrious history. The home’s construction began around 1861, and then was finally completed by 1865. Construction was overseen by Lucy Abbott, a young and financially independent lady from Charleston, South Carolina, and the niece of Florida’s fourth Governor, Madison S. Perry.

 

Governor Madison S. Perry, Courtesy the Florida Photo Archives

 

                  As most of St. Augustine’s official records were lost during this period of history, there is speculation as to the details of previous land ownership prior to the Civil War. Remaining historical documents, however, suggest that a Spanish gentleman owned the land during the first Spanish period, which was then deeded to the British during the beginning of their occupation in 1763. By the 1850s, the land was purchased by Miss Abbott in a land concession. The allotment of land was quite extensive, stretching eastward into an area inhabited by Native Indians, which runs from San Marcos Avenue; then known as Shell Road, all the way down Hospital Creek. This area became known as the “Abbott Tract,” and had at least ten homes built on it. Indeed, Lucy Abbott was quite the entrepreneur for a woman of that time. During this period a lot of drama was playing out that could fill the pages of a Harlequin romance novel. Florida, which had been controlled by the Confederate States of America, was being usurped by the Union Army. Miss Abbott; like many of St. Augustine’s populace, would temporarily lose their land to Union forces, being obligated to live elsewhere in town. To make matters worse, she fell in love with a Confederate soldier, having to hide their torrid romance for fear of being caught, as the consequences would likely have been disastrous. In addition to this, Governor Perry objected to the romance, and ordered it null and void.  Lucy’s union with the Confederate soldier promptly ended, and she resided herself to a life of refined solitude.

                 Miss Lucy Abbott lived in the home for many years, and was considered an honored mainstay of her fellow St. Augustinians. She lived to the ripe old age of 94, and was buried in Evergreen Cemetery a few miles from the historic section of the city. Since then, several families have lived in the home; it was used as a small recovery hospital for tuberculosis patients, a veterinary clinic, and in its last incarnation, a retail store. In October of 2010, Tina Danielson became the proud owner, and began refurbishing the home. It was during this time when she noticed that her home was a setting for some very interesting, though less than frightening paranormal behavior. From bumps in the night and phantom giggles to fill-bodied apparitions, the spirit activity at Miss Caroline’s Guest House appears to be quite active indeed. In fact, one might say that this lovely Victorian Inn is very, very haunted.    

 

Haunting Manifestations

 

                 For some years now the home at 41 San Marcos Avenue, even before it became Miss Caroline’s Guest House, there has been a focus of many strange events of a paranormal nature. So much so that the common opinion is that this location is thoroughly haunted on several levels. After I made my first visit here, I found that eyewitness reports suggest a wide range of such events taking place inside the home; from strange sounds emitting from unseen sources; including a child’s laughter and giggling, bumps, thuds and floor-creaking footfalls. Phantom music and disembodied voices have been audibly observed with and without the aid of recording devices, and much more. Other events like physical objects disappearing; only to reappear someplace else is a common event to take place here too, as well as phantom smells and out-of-place odors wafting through the home at times where no such smells should exist, and even visual observations of full-bodied apparitions have been reported. Without a doubt, something strange is taking place here.                                                                                                              

 

 

Researchers investigating the inn, courtesy Off the Trail Paranormal Investigations

 

Researchers investigating the inn, courtesy Paranormal Seekers

 

               Thus far, we understand that this home, although relatively new compared to the vast history of St. Augustine, nonetheless has an intense history all its own. And it may be this home’s particular history that is somehow creating the events in question. The first noticed incidents took place during the refurbishment and furnishing of the home, when the innkeeper was restoring the Victorian manner house as a living space again. It was when she came home to find that the upstairs bathtub had turned on by itself and flooded the rooms that she began to have her suspicions. And it wasn’t too long after that when a similar event occurred, as one of the main water valves turned on by itself; again flooding the home. Though such an incident could have been the result of an accident or within the realm of explainable things, the innkeeper was certain she had not turned on the water, or that anyone else could have. Regardless, these meager events would initiate a series of odd occurrences that would entice many investigations by local and out-of-state paranormal researchers.  

               A local ghost hunting group called Paranormal Seekers investigated the home and adjacent premises. Their findings, though not necessarily conclusive, seem to point to a classic haunting, which appears to center in The Lady Rose Room and the Colonel’s Room on the second floor. The investigators were able to record various sounds on tape recorders, as well as detect the scent of flowers and tobacco smoke wafting through this area. This group believes that there is a spirit here, a former resident whom they named ‘Rose.’ They feel that this presence is gentle, and wishes to watch over the home she had loved in life, as well as the people now residing here. Whether or not the identity is correct, Rose is an accepted and beloved spirit, though she’s not the only one residing. Other paranormal groups, such as the Northeast Florida Paranormal Investigations, SpiritLight Investigations, Off the Trail Paranormal Investigations and First Coast Paranormal are continuing their research into Miss Caroline’s haunting incidents, as well as helping to conduct ghost-related research for the public. Their separate investigations have unearthed many examples of Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP) and many photographic anomalies throughout the home. From orbs to vortex phenomena; which is smoke-like variances captured on film and digital cameras, appears to be some form of spirit energy in transit, according to the investigators. Other researchers, as seen above,  have captured evidence that might be considered direct proof of ghostly activity with what appears to be an ‘energy ribbon’ zapping an investigator’s camera, and literally draining the fresh batteries that were put in the camera just before the investigation. As the photograph shows, a gray, rope-like pillar of, presumably ectoplasm, reaching from one side of the room to the ceiling, and then down upon the investigator’s camera, in a pulsating, purple arch of light, and then smashing into the camera like a lightning bolt. Stranger still is the fact that no one saw this event take place as the photographer was taking the photo. Moreover, when we look at the photograph, we can see the same deep purple arch of light in a mirror in front of the investigator. This would seem to prove a physical nature to the phenomena that cannot be readily explained. To date, the photo remains an enigma, but is available for viewing at the SpiritLight website.

                 This paranormal group also captured compelling video evidence of a small toy top spinning on its own accord, when a team member prompted the spirit of Molly to spin the top. Other occurrences such as the scent of flowers, and sometimes pipe tobacco have been common events to occur here too. In fact, while walking through the upstairs hallway the innkeeper herself had encountered the powerful scent of fresh roses as she turned the corner to walk down the stairs. Other investigators have noticed similar out-of-place odors when investigating, even when no actual flowers or air freshening agents were found in the home. Odors like pipe tobacco and other forms of smoke, like that of from a forest fire have been detected in the home too, again, with no logical explanations to account for such smells. A possible explanation for the ghostly burning wood scent, however, might be tied to a major fire that occurred in this area around 1887. The fire started in C. F. Hamblen’s hardware store, which quickly led to homes and even a cathedral, burning a good portion of the town in the process. The scent of charred timber was said to fill the air around St. Augustine for weeks, permeating the homes with that unmistakable scent. Could this be a residual effect from the past?                                                                                       

                 In addition to these oddities, the innkeeper related many of the experiences expressed by the guests themselves since the inn’s opening. While one family was occupying the second floor, they walked around the inn with their video camera recording, as the father narrated for future memories of their St. Augustine vacation. When they were finished filming, and replayed the video to see how it looked, they found that everything came out as expected, and something more…They had their own music track added in. As the family listened, they all heard what sounded a lot like ‘honkatonk’ music so common to the 1940s. Though there wasn’t a singer, the family could hear the echoing tinkling of piano keys playing an unknown tune from beyond. To this day there has been no explanation for this event.  In other guest experiences, there have been direct sightings of apparitions, such as that of a Victorian-age lady, complete with authentic dress and bouffant hairdo, and accompanied by a strong scent of flowers. There is also the spirit of a Civil War solider, who is believed to be that of Miss Lucy Abbott’s beau, who still laments of their broken love affair. There are two little spectres; a little girl named Molly and a boy named Charlie. These child spirits raise more questions than answers because St. Augustine’s records of events and family histories are sparse from the Civil War period, an unfortunate side effect of Union forces taking over the town. Regardless, local psychics and those from abroad have sensed that these spectres are gentle and playful characters from the past. These ghostly remnants appear to come from various time periods; Molly, a child around the age of five or six, comes from the high Victorian era, while Charlie, a boy around eight or nine comes from an earlier time period. 

                One peculiar paranormal event to occur at the inn is the disappearance and reappearance of various articles. In the realm of parapsychology this event is known as an apport, the transference of a physical object from one place to another by unknown means. Though rare, Miss Caroline’s Guest House seems to have such phenomena going on. The innkeeper has had several items go missing, only to reappear in the strangest of places, such as under stacks of magazines, and even under a bed. A few guests staying at the inn have had experiences too. While one guest was preparing for his day, he laid out his clothing on the bed before taking a shower. He had a pair of freshly pressed trousers, socks, a tie and a new dress shirt ready to go. When the man was finished showering, he prepared to dress. He found all his garments ready, except for his nice, new shirt. The confused man looked all around for it. He looked in the closet, in the bathroom and even under his bed, thinking it may have fallen to the floor and somehow rolled under it. The shirt was simply gone. The doors to his room were locked, and only he had the key, so no one could have come in and taken it. The poor man had to wear his old shirt for the rest of the day. The shirt has yet to be found.

 

A ghostly cat of St. Augustine’s past

                                                                                                                                   

                 One last spirit to mention is that of a ghostly cat, which plays and frolics around the home, leaving impressions on bed covers, and purring in the ears of unsuspecting guests. This frisky animal spirit has no definite past known to the innkeeper, but there may be a connection between this cat and another spectral feline that lived just a few doors down from Miss Caroline’s. This spirit cat named Toby belonged to a town luminary named Martha Lee Segui. The cat was known in the neighborhood as a friendly, roaming feline that everybody liked. And though Toby died in 1989, he has been spotted loitering in back streets and near the homes in this area since then, so these two ghostly cats may be one and the same. When visiting St. Augustine, take a ride out to 41 San Marcos Ave, where   Miss Caroline’s Guest House once operated. Bear in mind that there are indeed strange things going on there, so you might just get a first-hand experience with the unknown. If you hear the gentle, giddy sounds of children at play while gazing through the windows here, think of little Molly and her little spectral friend Charlie romping around as children do. Maybe they’re just looking for a playmate. Perhaps you’ll detect the delightful scent of flowers wafting near the front stoop, or maybe the sophisticated odor of a gentleman’s pipe when no one else is present. Maybe you’ll hear those strange knocking sounds and disembodied footfalls echoing from nowhere, or perhaps you’ll detect the faint, chilling sounds of phantom music as if coming from a ghostly band from beyond the grave. Perhaps, but what you will find here is a charming Victorian inn that will make you wish it was still open.  Though we cannot know if it will open again under a new name, and under new management, we do know that like many things in the ancient city, great buildings, regal cemeteries and the ghosts of famous and infamous people seem to live on nonetheless, so experiencing something rather creepy is very possible. Furthermore, if you’re interested in becoming the new proprietor of this lovely home, as a haunted bed and breakfast all to yourself, it is indeed available. Who knows, you might be the proud owner of a ghost or two…

 

References  

 

City of St. Augustine Archaeology Program http://www.digstaug.org 

Florida Memory Project – Florida Photographic Collection http://www.floridamemory.com/photographiccollection/ 

Miss Caroline’s Guest House — www.misscarolinesguesthouse.com/ 

St. AugustineHistorical Society Research Library http://www.staugustinehistoricalsociety.org/library.html  

State Library & Archive of Florida http://dlis.dos.state.fl.us/library/

 

Interesting websites

 

http://diannespiritlight.tripod.com/id6.html 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3CO40xp980 

http://www.neflpi.com/webpage/id/2 

http://www.ghostaugustine.com/links.php 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ryCI6hwfz3U 

http://www.offthetrailsparanormalinvestigations.org/miss-carolines-guest-house-2nd-visit/ 

 

 

Top Ten Ghost Story Films for Halloween

Ghost Story (1981)

 

            This All Hallows’ Eve, why not take an excursion into some of Hollywood’s best and beloved films about ghosts, hauntings and psychical research in general. Though filmmakers often add that something special to catch the eye of the moviegoer; moving beyond the fact and into the ultra-fantasy, once in a while they hit it on the spot. Films like Poltergeist, by the great Steven Spielberg and Tobe Hooper, The Fog, by John Carpenter and The Grudge series by Takashi Shimizu and Stephen Susco are filled with the most amazing special effects and horror-filled elements of the genera, they go far beyond the reality of ghostly phenomena, and in a way, smudge the true elements of such research. Indeed, if such was true, I fear even the bravest ghost hunter would be cowering under his bed in fear for his life. Yet, on occasion, Hollywood does create a worthy film that captures the feel and drama of the world of parapsychology and psychical research, and fosters a sense of awe and interest for the ghost hunter in all of us…Well, most of us.

Here are my top ten picks for the discerning moviegoer that will give you a few shivers, but should add a bit of truth for those who want to disregard the red-eyed daemons, pea soup spitting kids and the rolling heads this year, and take a grown-ups journey in that celluloid unknown…Enjoy!      

 

NUMBER 1 

The Changeling (1980) 107 minutes  

“A man staying at a secluded historical mansion finds his life being haunted by the presence of a spectre.”  This is my all time favorite, showing the loss of a musician’s wife and child, and a series of ghostly manifestations that follow when he relocates to an old mansion in Seattle. The restless spirit makes his anguish known through the musician’s grief, prompting him to become a paranormal detective, and solving an old mystery in the process and exposing the ‘changeling’ to put the restless to rest…But will the pint-sized spectre find rest? 

Lots of haunting atmosphere and poltergeist-like activity here.  

Director: Peter Medak Stars: George C. Scott, Trish Van Devere, Melvyn Douglas, Jean Marsh 

 

NUMBER 2

The Uninvited (1944) 99 Minutes 

“A composer and his sister discover that the reason they are able to purchase a beautiful gothic seacoast mansion very cheaply is the house’s unsavory past.” 

Another all time favorite, it remains one of the best examples of the modern haunt in legend, and appears to follow actual methods in the process. This is a great film with lots of class and atmosphere, and suitable for all ages. This is one for a more eclectic group, though will find favor for mature teens and young adults too.

Director: Lewis Allen  Stars: Ray Milland, Ruth Hussey, Donald Crisp, Cornelia Otis Skinner 

 

NUMBER 3 

The Woman in Black (2012) 95 minutes 

“A young lawyer travels to a remote village where he discovers the vengeful ghost of a scorned woman is terrorizing the locals.” 

A new favorite for sure, this Hammer Film Industry’s re-entry into the world of the paranormal is faithful to the ghost story genre, without the favoritisms to jump-out shock value. It is also true to the Victorian-era ghost tale that’s brutal in that the ghost in question wants revenge on the children of the villagers, but kind in the end, when the tormented solicitor is reunited with his wife and child in what appears to be a promising afterlife. This film proves that the former Harry Potter star is quite able to move beyond the wonderment of his wizardly past, and tackle adult concepts well. It’s also proof that the English are truly the greatest actors in the world….Great job Mr. Radcliffe!    

Director: James Watkins Stars: Daniel Radcliffe, Janet McTeer, Ciarán Hinds, Emma Shorey 

 

NUMBER 4

The Haunting (1963) 112 minutes

 “Dr. Markway, doing research to prove the existence of ghosts, investigates Hill House, a large, eerie…” 

I can remember watching this on the late, late show back in the 70s, and not being able to sleep a wink that night…Fond memories for sure. Not even Elvira can poke fun of this one. In this tale, from the writings of Shirley Jackson, we find an intrepid psychical researcher and a group of people that range from the emotionally damaged, the greedy and the lustful, all engaged in a psychological experiment. And though there are chills and thrills throughout the film, the paranormal behaviors seem accurate and profound. A fun film with just enough scares to keep you on the edge of your seat.    

Director: Robert Wise Stars: Julie Harris, Claire Bloom, Richard Johnson, Russ Tamblyn 

 

NUMBER 5 

The Innocents(1961) 100 Minutes 

“A young governess for two children becomes convinced that the house and grounds are haunted.” 

Here’s a classic tale of ‘are they spooks or simply disturbed children’ motif, complete with excellent chills to make you wonder, and question the going-ons in the process. This one’s good for mom and dad after the kinds go to bed, as it’s a bit too antiquated for the younger generation, though a superb example of the haunted person idea that will keep you guessing. 

Director: Jack Clayton  Stars: Deborah Kerr, Peter Wyngarde, Megs Jenkins, Michael Redgrave 

 

NUMBER 6 

The Entity (1982) 125 Minutes 

“Supposedly based partially on a true story, a woman is tormented and sexually molested by an invisible demon.”

Here’s a frightening example of a violent ghost or ‘daemon-like’ entity that remains in the lexicon of famous American haunts. Investigated by equally famous psychical researchers, Drs. Barry Taft and Kerry Gaynor, the story revolves around actual events that have been faithfully reenacted, with a few extra Hollywood special effects and story-bending to add excitement. All in all, a very spooky film, not intended for little kids. But, a great film for date night with older teens and adults with the lights out.  

Director:Sidney J. (novel), Frank De Felitta Stars: Barbara Hershey, Ron Silver and David Labiosa 

 

NUMBER 7 

Lady in White (1988)112 Minutes 

“Locked in a school closet during Halloween 1962, young Frank witnesses the ghost of a young girl and the man who murdered her years ago…” 

Another great film that creates the eerie feeling that’s just right for the family, with perhaps an ounce of reality added to it. With subjects of child killings, it may prove too intense for younger viewers, but the take on a ghostly mother reuniting with her murdered daughter is heartfelt, and rewarding to see. The ‘Lady in White’ motif is spot on, and follows with the great ghost tale set in the 1950s. A truly fun film that will make Halloween just a bit more fun, with some pretty accurate renditions of haunting events. 

Director: Frank LaLoggia  Stars: Lukas Haas, Len Cariou, Alex Rocco, Katherine Helmond 

 

NUMBER 8 

What Lies Beneath (2000) 130 Minutes 

“The wife of a university research scientist believes that her lakeside Vermont home is haunted by a ghost – or that she’s losing her mind.” 

Here’s a great film that takes the former Indiana Jones and turns him into a ‘reel’ heel. Really, you actually want to see his character die in the end. And of course, if you’re a fan of Michelle Pfeiffer as I am, this film won’t let you down…She’s just lovely, even without the Cat Woman outfit. But I digress; this film captures the essence of the classic haunt, where feelings and atmosphere calls attention to the unknown at face value. It’s a great piece on the ‘unfinished business’ motif, and will find favor with adults for a late night fright. Ladies, make some margaritas and settle down for an enjoyable grown-up Halloween.   

Director: Robert Zemeckis  Stars: Harrison Ford, Michelle Pfeiffer, Katharine Towne, Miranda Otto 

 

NUMBER 9 

The Sixth Sense (1999) 107 Minutes 

“A boy who communicates with spirits that don’t know they’re dead seeks the help of a disheartened child psychologist.” 

This one blew the minds of moviegoers due to the surprise ending that has since paved the way for similar motifs, such as The Others (2001) and The Passengers (2008), though creating a sense of possibility in the world of psychical research, in that it opens up possibilities and reasoning for certain ‘ghostly’ activity, not to mention posing the question: Maybe some ghosts just don’t know their dead. This is a thought-provoking film that offers something for everyone this Halloween and Halloweens to come, so turn out the lights, put the kids to bed and see if you have a sixth sense.   

Director: M. Night Shyamalan  Stars: Bruce Willis, Haley Joel Osment, Toni Collette, Olivia Williams 

 

NUMBER 10 

The Others (2001) 101 Minutes 

“A woman who lives in a darkened old house with her two photosensitive children becomes convinced that her family home is haunted.” 

Here’s a film that shows us the viewpoint of the ghost, from their side of the fence, so to speak. How do we deal with the fact that we’re already dead? Are we introduced to the afterlife by an angel or do we find out with the help of other ghosts? Well, in this film we get to see how a family of ghosts deals with the afterlife with the help of the servants. It’s one of those “Oh, I get it” films that will make you think…What if. This one’s good for the adults and older teens, but might be a bit too dragging for the kids. 

Director: Alejandro Amenábar  Stars: Nicole Kidman, Christopher Eccleston, Fionnula Flanagan, Alakina Mann 

 

Runner Ups…

 

Here are a few others to consider, though perhaps bordering more on the fantastic than that of fact, these are lots of fun all the same. 

 

Ghost Story (1981)

“Four successful elderly gentlemen, members of the Chowder Society, share a gruesome, 50-year old secret…” 

Believe it or not, I wanted to add this to my top ten, but felt that it held too many clichés, where the ghost comes back for revenge, and interrelates with the living as the living, in a type of revenant, making it too fantastic. Regardless, I will consider this one a 10 ½ in my considerations. Why you ask? Largely because of the book, which was of course far more in-depth and interesting, and because of the acting of the characters, specifically the South African beauty, Alice Krige’s portrayal of the ill fated Eva Gallie? Indeed, this film should be remade in a mini-series format (hint, hint) that will be faithful to the author’s ideals. It would be a great addition to the world of ghostly horror.     

Director: John Irvin, Book by Peter Straub Stars: Craig Wasson, Alice Krige, Fred Astaire, John Houseman 

 

Wind Chill (2007) 

“Two college students share a ride home for the holidays. When they break down on a deserted stretch of road, they’re preyed upon by the ghosts of people who have died there.” 

I really enjoyed this one. Very creepy, and turns out having a back story to the spectres seen on this lonely stretch of road. Though being snowbound in a car in a blizzard can be a real pain, being stuck with Emily Blunt would certainly make it worthwhile. Watch this one for a few good thrills and chills. 

Director: Gregory Jacobs  Stars: Emily Blunt, Ashton Holmes, Martin Donovan, Ned Bellamy

 

1408  (2007) 

“A man who specializes in debunking paranormal occurrences checks into the fabled room 1408 in the Dolphin Hotel. Soon after settling in, he confronts genuine terror.” 

Another great film in the tradition of the Twilight Zone mixed with a haunted house film, 1408 or (13) is a neat flick well worth the viewing, especially if you love the haunted hotel concept. As Cusack’s character states: How many people stayed here, were sick here…Died here…How many people lost their minds here?  Indeed, all you need is an ultraviolet light and an EMF reader and you’ll run from this hotel.

 Director: Mikael Håfström  Stars: John Cusack, Samuel L. Jackson, Mary McCormack, Tony Shalhoub

 

Haunted  (1995)   

“Professor David Ash is invited to Edbrook to calm the fears of the elderly nanny of the Mariell family…” 

This film is yet another “the ending explains everything” motif, where the ghosts were there the whole time, and you thought they were eccentric English folk. This one will have you guessing, though once again we see the truly bizarre. But who knows? Maybe we experience such things and don’t even know it…This one’s for adults. 

Director: Lewis Gilbert  Stars: Aidan Quinn, Kate Beckinsale, Anthony Andrews, John Gielgud 

 

The Shining  (1980)   

“A family heads to an isolated hotel for the winter where an evil and spiritual presence influences the father into violence, while his psychic son sees horrific forebodings from the past and of the future.” 

One of my all-time favorite Stephen King novels, hands down. This one is a classic, and must be one of the top 50 films of the 20^th century. Of course, this film is more Kubrick’s film than Mr. Kings; it’s a fabulous rendition all the same. In its defense, I have to say that the scare factor is above board, not so much for the special effects, but for the sheer foreboding feelings the viewer will get from it…All alone in a haunted hotel for the winter, sleep in, write all day…Yes, I can do that.   

Director: Stanley Kubrick  Stars: Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Danny Lloyd, Scatman Crothers

 

The Shining (1997 Mini-Series) 

OK, this one was not as scary as the film version, but it’s more true to the book. And even here, with the time limits and the decency/ethics and what have you codes of the day, we really could not experience what Stephen King intended, in spite of Mick Garris’ direction. I guess if it were done today for HBO or another pay-per-view, we would get a real treat. But, that’s fine, we still have the basic elements and of course, being stranded in a haunted hotel, and stuck with Rebecca De Mornay…I’m there dude! 

Director: Mick Garris  Stars: Rebecca De Mornay, Steven Weber, Courtland Mead, Wil Horneff

Well, those are my picks. I hope you’ll find them as enjoyable as I have over the years. Whether you have these in your collections, or if you’re about to be introduced to them for the first time, have an open mind and enjoy the show. Just remember, it’s just a movie

 

Have a safe and happy Halloween! 

 

Sources:

The International Movie Data Base http://www.imdb.com/

 

 

The Walking Dead and the Zombie Apocalypse — Will you survive?

 

“The guy just stood; his head up like that, with pieces of flesh in his mouth. And he growled.”    

                   

                                                                                                                                                           Larry Vega, Dade County Law Enforcement Officer

 

 

             These were the words of a Miami police officer, who most likely has seen everything imaginable in this massive city of the Sunshine State, but on that day, he had seen far too much. After reports were coming in about a crazed naked man, police responded as fast as they could. When they arrived, they found a Miami man, identified as 31 year old Rudy Eugene standing naked on the MacArthur Causeway, grunting and growling like an animal, with bits of flesh hanging from his mouth. The man refused to follow directions from the officers, remaining over his victim; another half-naked man lying face down in a pool of blood. Moreover, the growling man was showing signs of impending attack on the officers, leaving little choice but to shoot the maniac, in fact, firing six shots in order to finally stop him. The victim of Mr. Eugene ended up spending several days in critical condition at the hospital, and was found to be missing 80% of his face, nose, and mouth. For all intent and purpose, this was a genuine zombie-like attack, straight out of the movies.

            In June of this year, another zombie-like attack occurred in Palmetto, Florida, where a man (allegedly) high on an unknown substance was discovered biting a man in the arm, what at first appeared to be an isolated incident, became a craze. In fact, about a dozen more reports of men and women acting like “zombies from the movies” are attacking people all over the world. Oddly enough, these attacks occurred just after an alert and preparation-like warning came in from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Here are just a few noted reports thus far:

 

Palmetto, Florida –

When a Mr. Jeffrey Blake woke up in his Palmetto home Thursday morning, he had no idea the bizarre scuffle with his son-in-law the night before would thrust him into worldwide headlines about another “zombie” attack.

“It didn’t occur to me, to tell you the truth,” Blake said.  The 48-year old was attacked and was bitten on the arm by the man who had stripped naked.  When the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office described the bite as a “chunk of meat” out of Blake’s arm, the story quickly appeared throughout the internet.

In reality, Blake ended up with a bruised bicep with a minor puncture wound.

Still, the incident has similarities to the world-famous assault in Miami in which a man chewed off the face of a homeless man along a busy highway.  Blake described 25-year old Charles Baker as “wild,” throwing furniture and tearing off his clothes.

“I don’t know what was in his body but whatever it was, it was mighty powerful,” Blake said.

 

August, 2011 – Liverpool England

Two men get in a brawl outside a nightclub… the officer explains it best:

It is horrific, sickening and it is almost barbaric, what takes place… The victim and the assailant could be seen brawling in the street. Both males fall to the floor and there’s a struggle… There are nine consecutive punches while he lies on the floor. The assailant can be seen to place his head down by the victim. He starts eating away at his face and his head. The male has had his two ears bitten off, part of his nose bitten off and half of his lip bitten off.The attack reminded me of a lion wrenching the flesh off a gazelle.” via Anorak.co.uk: http://www.downtownmiaminews.com/featured/face-biting-an-international-problem/6977/

 

October, 2011 – Indianapolis

A high school basketball coach was suspended after starting a fight with, and biting, a student, in the face according to WinningHoops.com: http://www.winninghoops.com/pages/Breaking-News—Coach-Accused-Of-Biting-Students-Face-During-Fight-(VIDEO).php

 

January, 14 – Hudson Valley NY

A 46 year old woman bit the face of two children at a bookstore, leading to charges of felony child abuse according to the Daily Freeman: http://www.dailyfreeman.com/articles/2012/01/14/news/doc4f11794027b5f931351696.txt

 

January, 24 – Alabama

A 47 year old man is arrested for biting the face of another person during a domestic dispute according to The Batavian: http://thebatavian.com/howard-owens/law-and-order-man-accused-biting-face-victim-during-argument/30118

 

February 25 – N. Carolina

An 18 year old man was accused of biting off his girlfriends lip off. When the police arrived, the girlfriend was holding a washcloth to her face while her lip lay on the ground according to the Gaston Gazette: http://www.gastongazette.com/

 

April 21 – Toronto

An 29 year old man was arrested for snatching a baby from it’s mother’s arms and biting the baby in the face according to the Toronto Star: http://www.thestar.com/news/crime/article/1165774–bail-denied-for-man-accused-of-snatching-biting-toddler

 

May 23 – Maryland

According to the Courier Post story, a man bit his girlfriends face (and put a cigarette out on her breasts) during a domestic incident

 

May 30 – Suffolk NY

The Suffolk Times reports a man, enraged at someone throwing garbage out of their car window, pulled a man through a car window and bit his face. http://suffolktimes.timesreview.com/2012/05/32429/cops-riverhead-man-bit-drivers-face-in-road-rage-incident/

 

June 6 – Scott, Louisiana

Carl Jacquneaux, a 43-year-old Louisiana man, was arrested over the weekend for biting off a chunk of his neighbor’s face. Police believe that Jacquneaux may have been on bath salts at the time of the attack.

Assistant Police Chief Kert Thomas said:

“During the attack, the suspect bit a chunk of the victim’s face off… He was clearly under the influence of some kind of drug.”

The victim, Todd Credeur, said that he was in his yard when he was attacked by Jacquneaux. The Huffington Post reports that Credeur was able to stop the attack by spraying his attacker with wasp spray.

After Jacquneaux left Credeur’s property, he entered the home of another neighbor and held him hostage at knife point. Jacquneaux stole a hand gun but was eventually apprehended by police.

Local TV station KATC reports that Jacquneaux was charged with aggravated burglary, battery, and violation of probation. He is currently being held on a $312,500 bond.

 

*Though these zombie attack reports represent just a few world-wide, we might count on there being more. Likewise, strange diseases popping up, even more so-called “meningitis by injection” cases will likely continue to grow, and maybe even more disturbing things…What’s next?

 

 

Get a kit…Get a plan  

 

 

 “…There are all kinds of emergencies out there that we can prepare for…Take a zombie apocalypse for example –That’s right; I said zombie apocalypse. You may laugh now, but when it happens you’ll be happy you read this, and hey, maybe you’ll even learn a thing or two about how to prepare for a real emergency…”

 

CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), 2011

 

 

             As amazing as it sounds, this is a very serious question posed by the Centers for Diseases Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. Perhaps not surprisingly, the same steps in preparing for such an event as the dead returning to life would be similar for surviving an earthquake, a hurricane or a viral pandemic, CDC officials claim.  Interestingly, the CDC has found the use of the current zombie pop-culture to their advantage, as this government agency sees such an end-of-the-world scenario and surveying such an event very similar in preparing for and surviving such disasters, both natural and man-made. In spite of the references to the 1968 film “Night of the Living Dead” and it’s many sequels by director George A. Romero, Dr. Ali Khan, Assistant Surgeon General with the CDC instructs the reader how to prepare for a “zombie apocalypse” very much like the protagonists do in the most excellent AMC television drama: The Walking Dead or in popular video games such as Left4Dead and Dead Island, Dr. Khan asks the question: Are you prepared for the impending zombie invasion? Though designed to be a tongue-in-cheek reference for younger audiences, CDC officials nonetheless defend the importance of emergency preparation as the primary reasoning.

             Now, most of us know that such things are certainly not real by any stretch. However, sometimes life imitates art, and vice versa, making reality sometimes amusing and sometimes terrifying to say the least. I can remember vividly working with the coroner’s office in the 1980s and being exposed to some of the most graphic, frightening and educational things I could ever have imagined. I can also recall witnessing various bodily movements and functions not expected form a cadaver, yet lo and behold, I quickly discovered that the dead actually moan, groan, burp, flatulate, achieve erections and…Wait for it…they can move too!  Indeed, I can remember it like yesterday: I was working in lab #3 with my friend and co-worker Larry Kershner. We were prepping several bodies for examination by the medical examiner when a strange event occurred. A 40 year old man, who died from a fatal fall from his place of employment, was to be autopsied for insurance and family concerns to rule out drug use as a cause, and that it was one of the few cases that fell within the county’s jurisdiction by inquest, so it was deemed important. The body was in the cooler for only about 6 hours, having expired that afternoon. It was a typical process, and not at all exciting like the rash of killings that were occurring that year, so we prepared as usual and stood back for the M.E. to set up for his work. No big deal, right?

 

    Broward County c. 1986

 

               As Larry and I were assisting with taking notes and making sure the audio tape recorder was operating correctly, we noticed a slight sigh. We all just stood there and stared at the body on the shinny aluminum table. Then, the right shoulder of the body moved upward, his face twitched, as if he were going to sneeze, the mouth opened half-way, and his right leg jolted upward as if getting ready to kick someone in the face. Then, he relaxed, and there was nothing else. Regardless, having been relatively new to the job, I stood there almost in shock, with a feeling of pins and needles rushing up and down my body…It was a most frightening introduction to a natural occurrence that every medical examiner and funeral care worker has seen countless times in their careers. It is known as a Galvanic response.  This event is a type of electric impulse that surges through the body at all times of function, through life and death. In this case the body began to set in rigor mortis, and then broke out of it temporarily, before setting back again. This caused a series of responses that made the body move as it did, seemingly as if coming to life. Once rigor breaks out, decomposition will set in, and the natural decaying process will occur, rendering the corpse to decay depending upon the environment it’s in, such as a quick reduction to skeletal remains if in the forest or swamps, slower in the snow and in cold water, and even mummification if in a dry, hot place…But can it return to life?  My first and only answer is a resounding NO. Once you’re dead, and the heart no longer pumps, and the blood no longer flows, and the decomposition process sets in, its lights out everybody. So, the film and TV idea of the dead returning to life shall remain in the ether world of fantasy, unless of course, as the great director George A. Romero always suggested (but never actually confirmed); the dead ‘may’ have come back to life because of a space probe returning from Venus and exploded on reentry, thus depositing a weird alien bacteria on earth, or that Voodoo and black magic was involved, or that it was a new strain of virus that had broken out, et cetera and so forth. Though the cause was never revealed to us, the dead were walking the earth, and they were hungry.

            Having said that; I must say that a concept more akin to England’s 28 Days Later, directed by Danny Boyle in 2002, could indeed happen, and is more likely to occur in the near future, due to experimentation with new types of biological and chemical warfare being used on the public, and similar crimes taking place. Though not involving the dead, per se, it will involve the sick and the dying. Because this type of “zombie” was created in a lab, and got loose because a few animal rights activists got antsy and decided to help our furry friends, the accident occurred and jolly old England went to pot in a matter of days. Science fiction becomes science fact, as this scenario could happen tomorrow. So, now what do we do?

 

 

How to prepare for the coming Zombie Apocalypse

(Or something like it…)

 

            In the case of an actual zombie attack – should the creator throw up his hands and say: “Screw you; humanity… Here’s a little present for being such ungrateful monkeys” and curse us with the impossible, or if the more plausible scenario about bio-crazed humans running amok should occur, than there are a few steps we can take to at least give survival a fighting chance.  Although the movies tell us that the primary tool for a zombie outbreak would most likely be a machine gun and maybe a couple of hand grenades, in reality the best defense (at least at the beginning of such an event), are the basic necessities for surviving the first three days upon the onset. So, if you want to be one of the survivors, and not a hot lunch, consider the following list of survival kit items as advised by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Centers for Diseases Control:

 

Basic Emergency Supply Kit:

 

1. Water, at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation. (Also, if at home, fill your bathtub and sinks with water for extra emergency use). Water and power will no doubt be shut off in a wide spread situation.

2. Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food, pull-top cans, non-refrigerated food products and dry foods, such as nuts, granola, crackers and things that will keep you full for a while. In this case, carbohydrates are a good thing. You can also perchance MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat) at many Army & Navy stores. These will last a long time and do not require refrigeration.

3. Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food).

4. Battery-powered or hand crank radio and an N.O.A.A. Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries.

5. Flashlight and extra batteries.

6. First aid kit (Band aids, gauze and sprint wrapping, alcohol pads, chemical ice packs and an assortment of analgesics, ibuprofens and other pain/fever medications, as well as chemical ice and heat packs.

7. Whistle to signal for help. (This should only be used if police and/or military personnel are spotted…You do not want to signal potential raiders, or other violent persons).

8. Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

9. Tool box with basic tools such as a hammer, nails, screw drivers, pliers and wrenches.

10. Cell phone with chargers and (inverter or solar charger will be needed).

Other items, such as prescription medications, an extra pair of eye glasses, infant formula and diapers for those with small children, pet food and extra water for your pets, as well as important family documents such as insurance policies, identification and bank records (within a waterproof container) and cash/traveler’s checks are very important. Items such as fire extinguishers, matches in a waterproof container, feminine supplies and personal hygiene items, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels and even writing paper, pens and pencils and books, puzzles and other activities to help pass the time are also good items to have.

 

*For responsible adults, weapons are a good deterrent against predators, both human and animal. In violent times, there are always violent asocial people that will have no problem in killing you, raping you or your family or all of the above, so if you have the proper constitution, and will to survive and protect the ones you love, then you will have to question your spiritual and ethical foundations (but do that quickly, as your enemy already knows what he’s going to do). In short, be prepared for doing what might be against you upbringing, and teachings, as your world has just changed…  

It is also important to understand that in such a time, obeying the laws of the military and law enforcement is also vital to your survival. Though they are well trained, if they see you with a gun, you’re automatically a potential threat, as they will become targets by criminals and looters, so they will be on guard. Lower your weapon in such a situation, and let them know that you need help. They will advise you what to do from there.

 

 

            Now that you have your kit(s) made and ready for use in case of an emergency, be sure to go over the proper use of your kit with your family. Explain in detail just what you’re going to do if and when the outbreak occurs. If, for instance the local authorities request everyone in your vicinity to leave the area immediately, you can take your kit with you for the travel ahead. If you have to ‘hunker down’ and stay at home until the army comes in to clear the road of “zombies,” you’ll have your kit there and ready to go when they evacuate you.

              There you have it. Whether you’re a law enforcement officer, a firefighter, a paramedic or a military veteran, you’ll most likely be prepared, and you’ll likely survive the longest. The same will go for you if you follow the rules of survival: Be calm, think out you plan ahead of time and most of all…Be prepared; mentally, physically, emotionally and rationally!

               Good Luck!

 

 

Are zombies a possibility? In the age we’re living in now, anything is possible, no matter how insane it may sound….Just be ready.

 

 

(Attacker) Rudy Eugene and (Victim) Ronald Poppo (Before)

 

Ronald Poppo (After the attack)

 

  

Sources:

 

http://emergency.cdc.gov/

http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/05/18/cdc-warns-public-prepare-zombie-apocalypse/

http://www.ready.gov/

http://www.huliq.com/3257/real-life-zombie-attack-naked-man-killed-police-he-tried-eat-his-victims-face-video

http://www.undeadreport.com/

http://www.abcactionnews.com/dpp/news/zombie-like-attack-in-palmetto-leaves-man-with-bite-wound

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/miami-cannibal-was-not-on-bath-salts-943768

(YouTube Items) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idxzjAt1T4Y

http://www.downtownmiaminews.com/column/odd-and-unusual/zombie-apocalypse-preparedness-and-survival-guide/6894/

http://www.inquisitr.com/249147/new-bath-salt-zombie-attack-carl-jacquneaux-bites-off-mans-face-in-louisiana/#fbCsF6fhvBEqZ0tJ.99   

 

 

 

Cursed Antiques and Haunted Objects

 

“……Lewis Vendredi made a deal with the devil to sell cursed antiques. But he broke the pact, and it cost him his soul. Now, his niece Micki, and her cousin Ryan have inherited the store… and with it, the curse. Now they must get everything back and the real terror begins……”

 

Prologue: Friday the 13^th — The Series

 

 

            This was the opening dialog to one of my favorite television shows of the late 1980s; Friday the 13^th – The Series. As big hair and leg-warmers were going out of style, television was embracing the occult at face value, and in gut-wrenching mannerisms compared to earlier concepts seen on the boob-tube. Though this show has nothing to do with the teen slasher films of the day, or the killer maniac named Jason Vorhees, also known as Friday the 13th, it instead dealt with the concept of cursed antiques that were sold to innocent buyers, and the pursuit of these daemonic artifacts before ending with disastrous consequences. Though for the most part the cursed objects were recovered, there were always a slew of victims that followed the hunt.  It was entertaining Saturday night fodder, though subject to critical review by religious groups of the day, and praised by fans of the horror genre. But is there any truth to the idea of haunted antiques…Can such a thing take place?

            Over the years I have had the chance to see such alleged objects of doom, and even collect a few items during my travels. Though I can happily say that I have not fallen victim to said ‘curses’ as a result of either tampering or possessing such objects, I admit there is something to them; understanding that without true belief in the subject matter, thus believing that the curse in question will indeed harm me in some way, they (the object in question) cannot and will not harm or influence me. This is a standard concept understood to those who embrace magick traditions, and who foster themselves to various charms and talismans for protection, through a concept devised by Sir James Frazer; known as Sympathetic or Contagious Magic(k). This British anthropologist, folklorist, and classical scholar contended that thus admitting to the belief in ‘magical’ powers of such objects, for instance, there will appear to be a secret reality to such things, whereby the believer will manifest the essence, in this case, of the curse in question, both physically and emotionally. Yet again we must ask the question: are inanimate things, simple or complex objects able to hold some sort of energy that we conceive as haunted or cursed?

            Of the few, and most haunted of objects said to hold a curse to them vary in number, and are found across the globe. Indeed, many religious-based cultures, even in our mega-modern societies still embrace the concept as haunted artifacts and cursed antiques, proving that ancient beliefs still have longevity. The reasoning for such things also vary, as many theories propose everything from magick to less visceral concepts such as memory storage by means known as the Stone Tape Theory (See http://psiresearcher.wordpress.com/ 2012/03/19/the-stone-tape-theory-echoes-in-time/ for more information). Regardless the facts, the belief that certain objects are cursed and deadly are as popular today as they were centuries ago. The following brief listing shows the most popular and well known examples of haunted objects across the world, though you’re likely to find such an object in your own community if you look hard enough.     

 

The Woman of Lemb

 

            Though there are many different objects have been considered haunted or cursed throughout history, few are said to bring on death to its owners as the Women from Lemb statue. This strange little artifact has done so much damage that it is commonly referred to as the ‘Goddess of Death,’ and remains under glass in a private section of a Scottish museum. Discovered in 1878 in Eastern Europe, in the village of Lemb, Cyprus, it has been dated to about 3500 B.C. and is believed to represent a goddess of that time by noted historians, but its exact placement in the pantheon of gods and goddesses remains a mystery. The statue is carved from pure limestone, and appears to have been done in a manner similar to fertility idols of the ancients.

            The first owner is believed to have been a Lord Elphont, though history does not explain the manner in which all seven members of the Elphont family met their demise; only that they all died within a six-year period after becoming the owners. The next suspected victim was a man named Ivor Manucci., whose entire family died within a four- year period when having this statue in their home. A Lord Thompson-Noel became the following owner, who also lost his family in a four-year period. After this time the statue seemed to lapse into obscurity, as it could not be found for several years, but mysteriously returned to a cellar cabinet from where it ‘disappeared’ beforehand.              

            Sir Alan Biverbrook was next to purchase the statue. Shortly after this his wife and two daughters succumbed to a strange illness, then followed by Sir Alan Biverbrook dying a short time later. Sir Biverbrook had two remaining sons, who were formally warned of the circumstances that occurred with the ownership of the ‘Goddess of Death,’ and chose to follow the advice, and donated the seemingly damned statue to the Royal Scottish Museum in Edinburgh. Though curators of a museum claimed not to put stock into the idea of curses or haunted objects, the chief curator of the museum where the statue was placed took ill and died within the year. There have been no other noted deaths since the statue was placed under glass, where no one can physically touch it.

           So, what is it about this odd statue? Did it, as some believe, contain a poison or other form of disease-based fungus or virus on or within the limestone? This is certainly good reasoning, especially when we revisit the strange deaths of the excavation crews in Egypt at the beginning of the 20^th century. When several workers and even Lord Carnarvon himself apparently succumbed to the ‘curse,’ news of an ancient evil spread across the land like wildfire, even though in truth, these men are believed to have died from a simple fungus that lived on the mummy wrappings of the boy king, Tutankhamen. When these men shaved each morning, thus opening the pores in their skin, they unknowingly infected themselves when they rubbed or scratched their faces. Maybe that’s why Indiana Jones always sported a scruffy beard when he worked…Who knows? One thing is for sure; even the most arcane and intrepid of curses might very well have logical and quite mundane causes behind them.        

 

 

The Basano Vase

 

            This fancy little vessel; made of carved silver during the latter half of the 15^th century, is the object of Italian folklore that continues to frighten and inspire. Its history is foggy at best, but is believed to have been made as a wedding gift for a young woman in a northern village near Napoli. She is said to have either died or was murdered on her wedding night, clutching on the vase as she passed away. It was then passed around to family member to family member, causing death in one form or another until it was boxed and hidden away from sight. Some have claimed that it was hidden away by a priest; others say it simply disappeared, while others claim it was buried at an unknown time, only to be re-discovered in 1988. Legend tells us that when the vase was found, a piece of parchment paper with the message: “Beware…This vase brings death” was discovered inside of it. The creepy warning was discarded, and the vase was quickly auctioned off for 4 million Lira (about 2,250 U.S. dollars) to a local pharmacist. Three months later, he was dead. His family quickly sold it to a prominent surgeon who didn’t believe in such things as curses, and died two months later at the ripe old age of 37.

            After a short period of time it sold again, this time to an archeologist who saw the vase as a true artifact of the high Renaissance, and promptly added to his private collection. Three months later he died of an unknown infection. His family decided to sell the fancy vase, but by this time the damned thing seemed to have a reputation to it, as it was considered bad luck. They were not able to get the five million Lira the unfortunate archeologist doled out, but they sold it. Once again, the new owner died in the space of only one month after purchasing it. By this time, the Basano Vase was believed to be cursed by the townsfolk, especially the remaining families, and was tossed out of a window in haste. And, with one last unearthly insult, the vase is said to have nearly hit a policeman in the head as it was flung out the window, who quickly offered the litter bug a fine for disorderly behavior. The owners of the haunted vase accepted the ticket, but not the vase, and turned it down flat, wishing to be arrested rather than take the thing back again. Though the police decided to offer it to several museums, none wanted it, as they were aware of the curse. To date, several Italian newspapers have claimed that the local police had once again buried the vase in an undisclosed location, though some sources say that it was placed in a small lead coffin and buried on the grounds of an ancient cemetery where no one will dig it up — We’ll see.

 

 

The Florentine Diamond and other Cursed Gems

           “That damn stone [The Florentine] will take us into disaster…” 

 

Mary Antoinette, shortly before her execution

 

            Once again, we must revisit the concept of crystalline formations as a carry-all property; both in the form of systematic, non-vibration energy, which inhabit the realms of pure science and by means yet unknown to us, thus inhabiting the vistas of the metaphysic. Though it’s no revelation that crystals retain, and can transmit various aspects of such energy, as well as other forms of information, as currently used by computer manufacturing companies, and government agencies such as NASA, we can at least understand that the multi-faceted properties of crystals can retain and transmit information with perfection. Beyond this, we might consider the paranormal concept of various crystalline formations holding and transmitting other form of unseen energies, such as will, intention, moods and the psychic. Though sounding purely from the superstitious, consider the near perfectly formed, precious stones the Hope Diamond, the Delphi Purple Sapphire and the Florentine Diamond as examples.

 

 

The Hope Diamond

 

            The infamous Hope Diamond is likely the most noted example of crystal-like curses. The large, blue diamond when it was stolen from a sacred idol in India, for which holding a curse of misfortune and death to anyone other than the prescribed guardians, who touched it, let alone anyone who would steal it. Its perfect quality, size and its rare color make it unique and sought-after, though it is also known for its sad and deadly history. Once owned by King Louis XIV, and later stolen during the French Revolution, it is remembered for causing tragedy for its owners throughout its freedom among the rich and powerful. Finally donated to the Smithsonian Institution, its days of causing misfortune are almost gone, besides retaining powerful feelings of avarice and fear to those who behold it, its days of killing appear to be over. And, though the Hope diamond is truly unique, the Florentine Diamond is just as mysterious, and also holds a heavy history of doom and gloom.

 

 

Delhi Purple Sapphire

 

            Likewise, the Delhi Purple Sapphire has had an equally wicked history. According to Edward Heron-Allen, a scientist and personal friend of Oscar Wilde: “This jewel is accursed and is stained with the blood, and the dishonor of everyone who has ever owned it,” or so said the last owner of the beautiful gem. Though many people consider this rare gem a purple sapphire, it’s actually a large amethyst. Edward Heron-Allen offered the gem to the London Natural History Museum in 1943 claiming that it was indeed cursed, causing grief and loss to his family and himself.  History dictates that the Delhi Purple Sapphire was brought to England by Colonel W. Ferris, a cavalryman stationed in India. He discovered the amethyst in India after it had been taken from a temple in 1857 during the Indian Mutiny. Both colonial Ferris and his son suffered losses of wealth and wellbeing after owning the jewel, as well as there being a few suicides for those who possessed it. When Edward Heron-Allen took charge of the gem in 1890, his problems began soon thereafter. Indeed, he lost the majority of his fortune, and family, and in a fit of rage, attempted to discard the gem into the Regent’s Canal, only to have it brought back to him by a jeweler who bought it from a canal worker. Edward knew something evil inhabited the accursed stone, so in 1904, he decided to use his own magic, and incased the gem in a box filled with protective talismans and other magical sigils, and then entombed that box within seven other boxes, and then buried away in his cellar, hidden from prying eyes. When Edward died, the box was uncovered, and then donated to the museum — The curse was over, right?   

 

 

The Florentine Diamond

 

            The Florentine Diamond is a massive 139 karat, amber-colored diamond that is also associated with a long line of infamous deaths. Of the most famous deaths, or at least a listing of the most famous misfortunes are seen in the dramas of Queen Elizabeth I of England, King Faruk of Egypt and Maximillian of Austria, notably that of King Louis XIV and Mary Antoinette, the jewel’s ill intent can also be seen as the cause of Archduke Ferdinand and his wife Sophia’s assassination on 28 Jun 1918 in Sarajevo, thus igniting World War I. Though only coincidence for many, the fact that Sophia was wearing the stone at the time only fuels inquiry of a paranormal kind.  So what are we to think regarding apparently cursed effects of these stones? There are of course many other examples, but when we look at the particular histories of these stones, can we honestly discard at least the possibilities?  With all we understand about memory storage and the detainment of various energies, which can be found in certain stones and crystalline elements, can we not at least consider the idea that intent; moods, such as elation, sadness, rage and associated human emotions may also find their way to these foundations as mediums to replay themselves over and over again, in a place event situation? And what if this same concept is applied to other mediums, such as in certain paints or varnishes that may also hold minerals and crystalline materials, such as found in antique paintings and portraits — Can they also hold such human emanations?     

 

The Crying Boy

  

 

Cursed paintings? 

 

             The famous ‘Crying Boy’ paintings, notably those by the Spanish artist Giovanni Bragolin, also hold on to legends as curses and hauntings. As far back as the 1950s these mournful images of crying children have had many legends attached to them, even so far as to actually weep, apparently causing tears to drip from the canvas. In addition to these rumors, these paintings have been blamed for various misfortunes to the owners, including house fires and unexpected deaths.  In the 1980s, the British tabloid The Sun published a story about a Yorkshire Fire Brigade officer who unearthed one such painting from a burnt-out dwelling, completely undamaged while the rest of the home was in ruins. Since and before that, other copies had been reported found in the ruins of burned houses throughout the world. Indeed, there are many other examples of so-called cursed paintings; from Elvis paintings, to old hags, the idea of there being a curse attached to them appears to be based on witness accounts of strange events, and through a lexicon of misfortunate happenings. Whether or not such issues are attributed to a ‘magick’ curse, or by the aforementioned memory retaining affects of crystalline materials have yet to be discovered and empirically proven.

           Place memories, or residual hauntings seem to be akin to current ideas regarding curses of objects, as they can occur when something traumatic or stressful occurs, such as a murder or a rape is somehow attached to the object in question. It may be possible when certain energies are literally blasted into the atmosphere, causing that aspect of atmosphere to imprint or record those events to an object, such as a complex mineral. Like a video tape, it will play the events over and over again in succession, making the events appear as a curse. The residual haunting-like activity is not necessarily an intelligent haunting or a curse, as there is no interaction between you and any said entity, simply the action of those powerful emotions, such as rage and anger, happiness and sadness. In effect, the curse was placed on the object, for instance, as an adjunct to the creator or owner’s feelings about that object. The proprietors or guardians of those ancient Indian temples, for example, put great purpose and significance to the gems and the idols they were protecting. Such was and remains important to them, so naturally, they imprinted their most veracious emotions upon them each and every day, thus empowering the contents of these temples in a way that to date simply cannot readily be explained. Either through some force related to the intense faiths of humans, thus creating an elevated power that appears to be supernatural, may in fact be quite natural in every way, merely needing definition in order to lay these and similar mysteries to rest. Until that day, these objects will remain in the realms of cursed objects.

 

 

Personal Collections

 

            My collection thus far consists of several items with various histories. Some appear more evil than the others, but each has a particular reputation that is less than pure. Although there are many belief systems regarding these cursed antiquities, I have not experienced any ill effect or negative response, nor collapse in the financial arena, health or otherwise. Perhaps this is because I have a clear constitution of my belief systems, and not rushing headfirst into the monstrous folklore that may be attached to these items. Perhaps it is because I look at these objects from a position of respect to that of fear, somehow negating the so-called mystical powers that have created a powerful legend over the many years. The answer is yet forthcoming, but until that day, I shall regard each objet d’ art as an artifact, and as a live bomb, of sorts. Each is taken in as a piece of historical significance, and that of a diseased segment of flesh, where like a proper medical technician, handle such with a kind of universal precaution, just in case. As some of these items have shaken a few of my colleagues over the years, and literally scared the pants off of those who believe in magick as a tangible and powerful reality, I hold them dear. I hope you will too….    

 

Haunted Bricks?  

 

           These unique, if not grisly pieces of Chicago’s history were for sale by George Patey of Vancouver, British Columbia. He is selling the remaining 135 (or so) bricks from the building that was the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. I am new to Chicago, but every Chicagoan is familiar with the lore: On Feb. 14, 1929, seven of bootlegger George “Bugs” Moran’s men were gunned down inside a North Side garage, reportedly by mob-connected killers. The crime was never officially solved, but all signs pointed to Chicago crime boss Al Capone, whose alibi was that he was at his Florida estate at the time.  I bought these shortly before the building was completely removed. This is sad, as there is so much history to the affair and the legend. I bought these because they have a ‘haunted’ history to them, as many believe they are cursed, and that bad luck will follow anyone who owns them. I picked these 3 up at only $50 a piece, with authentication. They are far more expensive today, but Mr. Patey might make a deal with you. 

These items are not for sale.

George Patey Website: http://www.myalcaponemuseum.com/id157.htm

 

 

Cloth Poppet

 

            This bizarre little objet d’ art is known as a ‘Poppet’ (This is my Rod Serling Night Gallery Intro) and were made by witches and other soothsayers of long ago to act as a fetish of a person. It was mostly used for malaise, but on occasion, some were used for healing. I bought this at an estate sale in New Hampshire, as is dated approximately from c. 1850 – 1900. The inside is made of herbs, defiantly lace, ivy and rose petals, as well as unprocessed cotton. We think it was used primarily as a love fetish for a loved one. Green signifies health issues, and the white buttons may mean to clear something. The linen cloth is cheaply made, and has been estimated as coming from either a laundry bag or a linen protector, so this would signify that the maker was poor, possibly a servant. It’s a neat little curio.

 

 

Israeli Oil Lamp Heirlooms

 

            Here are a few items from Israel. These small Terracotta clay oil lamps with raised dots and linear designs, with minute traces of carbon residue around wick hole, are dated around 100 AD. They are about 3 1/2″ respectfully. Note dried blood on upper regions, denoting possible magic use.

My source: http://www.worldwidestore.com/

http://www.worldwidestore.com/34913c.htm

 

 

Scarabs — Mummy Icons

 

             This is an example of an ancient Egyptian green limestone scarab with hieroglyphics to the top and bottom. Dated at: 663 – 525 BC. (26th Dynasty), it has a hole for wearing around the neck. Size is: ¾” x ½”  I have about 40 of these little gems; some are as large as an orange, others small to fit within mummy wrappings for the afterlife.

My contact source: http://www.worldwidestore.com/40504c.htm

 

 

Book of Shadows

 

           This is one of my favorite collections. I found this in an antique shop in Maine, while enrolled at Norwich University (VT). It is a genuine ‘Book of Shadows’ used by practitioners of the occult and witchcraft. It is surrounded by deer skin and symbols that have been burned in via gun powder; according to Dr. Barbara DuBois and Dr. David Carrington of Norwich University c.1996. The flesh was sown with common catgut during the 19th century (c. 1800-15). Dates and various occult symbols have been etched inside with ‘bird’s blood.’ The woman who owned it was named “Bethany.” I bought this artifact along with a 19th century sword (saber) and blanket truck at a cost of $200. The book itself is worth over $10,000 due to content and savvy to collectors. It remains in Vermont in a private museum. (Not for sale)

 

 

 Crusader Rings

 

             Here’s a genuine Crusader ring dated about: 1270 A.D., which would have been the 8th Crusade, led by Louis IX. This is worth about £955.00, or less. There are several sources, but the one below is the best, just make sure you have a certificate of authenticity from the seller, with a raised seal. If buying in the UK as I did, you will have a better chance of getting the real thing, as they offer appraisal certificates with their merchandise. 

Source: http://shop.ebay.co.uk/genuine-ancient-jewellery/m.html

 

 

Haunted Bali and Indonesian Masks

 

             These masks I had the fortune of purchasing in Indonesia and the Islands of Bali and Sumatra way back in 1999, 2002 and 2006. Because my wife is Indonesian, I have an inside source. Most of these masks are ‘dance’ masks, and were designed for that purpose, though many of them are also used for various ceremonies and similar practices. These can be obtained via the following website. My masks inhabit the timeline: 1880s – 1920s respectably, and have a ‘haunted’ history. Many of the islanders have claimed that many of these masks that are made by locals, and now large manufacturing companies so prevalent today, where oftentimes painted with inks mixed with human or animal blood. Interested, I decided to consult a friend of mine in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, a retired homicide detective about running a simple blood test. This test, known as a Blood Reagent Test or a presumptive test, will detect any trace of hemoglobin, which will then show if it’s human or animal. Sure enough, the test proved positive, indicating the use of human blood in the artwork.

            Is it haunted as many of the natives believe it to be?   

 (Masks) http://www.lotusmasks.com/category/tribal-indonesian-bali-masks.html

 

 

The Hand of Glory

 

           Female, circa 1610, Middle East. Priced/Valued @ ($8.000 USD). This artifact is sealed in a clear sealant for protection, and resides in my personal library of artifacts. The hand of glory has an illustrious and equally horrible reputation throughout history. Usually made from the right hand of a hanged criminal, for the purpose of protection, and for thieves to use as a magical device for becoming ‘invisible’ from being caught while robbing homes, such was also valuable to those in certain magick traditions, who would burn a candle in its fingers for various purposes. In either the method, the hand was considered a most powerful tool. Because this was made from the hand of a woman, it is likely that she was also a criminal of a sense, perhaps guilty of her husband’s reasons. This is believed because the hand was indeed used in the ‘glory’ significance due to the fact that wax was found, and that it was originally included with a mahogany box, and covered in black cloth. It is believed that the woman in question was considered an adulterous person or at least guilty of angering her husband, resulting in her death.

             According to Dr. Hans Reinhardt, former medical examiner and employer, the woman was around 30 years of age, and suffered of bone aliments, possibly as result of a venereal disease. (Not for sale)

 

 

Skulls

 

            The head in the jar. Estimated to have been a sacrifice, the head was found with about 30 others in the jungles between Brazil and Peru, and are believed to have been done by unidentified natives living there. Traces of stone chips were found in the skin around the neck, suggesting that the victims were killed with antiquated tools. These examples are sealed in medical grade paraffin and capped at the spinal opening. The brain is intact, making it valuable to some collectors; as such heads are considered “Thinking Skulls” and can be used in magick ceremonies.   

 

 

           

 

                

              Another ‘simple’ skull from my collection. This is around 70 years old from a British Medical School. It is unique because it has dried and encapsulated flesh still on the mantel. This was a common practice for some in the medical field, as they needed a way of understanding the rate and appearance of a ‘decaying’ human body. This was done more for law enforcement than for medicine. This is a male skull of the age of 40-50. He had advanced arterial thrombosis as evident from the inner tissue/circ. system and likely died from a massive stroke. (These items have been sold)

 

 Considerations

 

            In the end, one might view these items; both the grisly and the mundane as things that should be shunned or at least, buried. Perhaps this is true, but for the sake of scholarly inquiry, we should consider the possibilities of each item having more to them than mere creepiness, for the lack of a better word. In truth, each of these artifacts are museum quality, and may indeed hold in them the vary power that was originally placed upon them. The book of shadows is a rare item in my collection, though now residing in a safe place today, it signifies the hidden life of a woman that likely had no rights, and was no doubt considered a heretic by her contemporaries. Did she etch her feelings of regret or anger in those fleshy bindings, or within the animal’s skin itself? If we are to believe that certain emotions can somehow be chiseled into such materials as the grains of wood, or in the complex network of crystal, than we might consider that such is true here, and from the perspective of one’s mind, indeed haunted…Or cursed.

            Other mundane artifacts such as the crusader ring, the terracotta oil lamps and the masks may be able to hold such energies too, though less in potency as the infamous Florentine Diamond, or the dreaded Basano Vase.  And what of the human skulls and the hand of glory? Are these too able to house the feelings and emotions of those people who gave of themselves for the sake of hate or sacrifice? You might be surprised to the individual answers you’ll receive.  In any case, these questions will no doubt remain in the ether realms of the supernatural and the haunted until we find a plausible answer that can be measured, cataloged and logically dissected by learned men and women. Until then, however, you might do well to consider that you too might have your own cursed antiques; hidden between the books on your shelves, or mingling with your grandmother’s antique glassware. Who knows…you may very well have a curse just waiting to escape in your own home, just waiting to be found.

            Now might be a good time to take that long overdue inventory, or clean out that old, dusty attic space. Who knows what’s waiting to be set free.    

 

Sources:

 

Sir James Frazer http://www.nndb.com/people/600/000099303/

Egypt and King Tut http://www.age-of-the-sage.org/archaeology/howard_carter.html

Curses of the Gods http://www.angelfire.com/empire/serpentis666/curses.html

http://famousdiamonds.tripod.com/florentinediamond.html

http://www.si.edu/Encyclopedia_SI/nmnh/hope.htm

http://www.hotspotsz.com/The_cursed_Delhi_Purple_Sapphire_(Article-1557).html

http://curseofthecryingboy.blogspot.com/2009/11/cursed-crying-boy-painting.html

http://www.forteantimes.com/features/articles/1308/the_curse_of_the_crying_boy.html

 

 

The La Concha Hotel: Beautiful, Relaxing…And Haunted

 

 The La Concha Hotel, Key West, Florida, circa 1940 

 

          Though I don’t get to visit the Florida Keys enough these days, I can remember the time when I would visit these fascinating chain of islands often. While attending the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale back in the early 1980s, my friends and I would make weekend trips to the Keys for sun and fun. We would have a drink or two at the famous Sloppy Joes, and sit on the beach at the southern-most point of the United States, without a care in the world. It was a far less frightening time in those days; with Cindy Lauper on the airwaves and Magnum P.I. on the television, we didn’t worry about terrorists hunting us down or the next world war looming overhead. No, it was a fairly innocent time to live in, relatively speaking. But, we did hear of the many haunted places that were said to exist there, and we avidly hunted them down. We explored high and low, and found places like the Key West Cemetery, where in 1927 an obsessed man, a mad doctor named ‘Von Cosel’ stole the object of his obsession, a lovely Cuban girl named ‘Elena Milagro Hoyos’ from her crypt, amazed to find that the creep kept her body, encased in a waxen and clay mask in his bed for years. We continued our journeys to haunted forts and museums, and finally to gaze upon a little stuffed doll named ‘Robert’, who is said to mysterious move as if alive…Creepy indeed. Yet, we would find a far more interesting place in Key West, that held a haunting past and a still haunted present, as ghosts and shades of lost souls were said to roam the hallways of a little hotel known as the La Concha.

 

 

The La Concha Hotel, today

 

          Built in 1924, the 160 room, seven-story La Concha Hotel was, and remains the tallest building in Key West. It has had an illustrious history, entertaining all kinds of people, from European royalty and U.S. presidents to Pulitzer Prize winning authors and even a few famous gangsters; the La Concha Hotel remains a quintessential icon of Florida’s southern most communities.  During the 1920s and 1930s, famed author Earnest Hemmingway stayed at the La Concha frequently, known for writing many of his novels in one of the suites here, having drinks on the rooftop bar or meeting his mistress in secret was a normal pastime while at La Concha. Gangsters such as Al Capone and his cronies are believed to have stayed here on occasion while on “fishing trips” in the Keys, as well as many other famous and infamous people.       

           The grand opening was in 1926, giving Key West a first class hotel. With marble floors, private baths, elevators and other elegant luxuries, it was no surprise that the La Concha was to become a winning success. By 1927, service between Key West and Cuba began, and the La Concha was to become a major stop for Floridian travelers, being delivered by the hundreds by Henry Flagler’s East Coast Railroad.  After the stock market crash of 1929, the tiny island of Key West suffered the most, becoming one of the poorest cities in the United States. The hotel changed ownership in 1930, becoming known as the “Key West Colonial.” It was able to maintain a relatively good business long enough for the construction on the overseas highway to usher in visitors to the now almost totally bankrupt island.  All was looking up until the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 swooped in that Monday morning, destroying a good portion of the highway, and cutting off Flagler’s East Coast Railway from the mainland.

           Over the years, the La Concha Hotel endured and played host to many famous people. Ernest Hemmingway was not the only literary hero to stay at the hotel. Pulitzer Prize winner, author Tennessee Williams completed his famous play A Streetcar Named Desire while staying at the La Concha. Sadly, even with such notable personalities, the hotel’s good fortune was about to change once again. The glory days of the La Concha Hotel were to go on an extended respite for close to 30 years. Within that time the once grandeur hotel became a victim to age and decay, giving the more modernized hotels and resorts the respect and esteem of the islands. By 1982 the hotel’s rooftop bar was the only part still operating, the rooms and suites had been boarded up for all that time, covered with dust and strung with spider webs. Fortunately, the fate of the La Concha was about to find favorable fortune again as architect Richard Rauh was given the opportunity to restore the hotel to its former glory. Going by old photographs and interviewing many of Key West’s remaining residents and spending millions in the process of major restoration, the La Concha Hotel became up-to date, yet maintained an atmosphere reminiscent of its colorful past, re-opening with a gala celebration in 1986.

           Because the La Concha is the tallest building on Key West, you can get a remarkable panoramic view of the entire island, from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean and all in between. On the seventh floor, you’ll find the wrap-around observation deck that makes viewing the sunsets a memorable experience. The Crown Room restaurant has a 1930′s décor to it, reminiscent to the hotel’s hay day, which gives one the feeling that Ernest Hemmingway is in some way still there enjoying the luxuries of Key West and the beautiful La Concha he once knew. The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a generous menu and an excellent variety of Key West’s own brand of nightly entertainment. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the La Concha Hotel will offer a unique and somewhat spooky feeling of yesteryear, as if the famous and not so famous personalities of Florida’s colorful past are still there…And many believe they still are. 

 

 

Tales of a guilty lawyer, a spectral waiter and Earnest Hemmingway’s ghost 

 

            The La Concha Hotel, steeped in Florida’s history, is without a doubt one of our State’s prized hotels, and although thousands of people stay here every year to enjoy Key West’s beaches and jubilant night life, the hotel has had a reputation of attracting another kind of population…Ghosts.  Because the history of the La Concha is rife with notable events throughout its past, such as accidental deaths and suicides, it stands to reason that a few of these sad, tormented or lost souls will choose to remain here.  The La Concha can boast of one ghost in particular, a tormented spirit who in life, worked as a waiter during the early 1980s. It was New Year’s Eve, just as the year chimed 1983 when this young waiter, a native of Key West, was picking up dishes from the 5^th floor en route to the kitchen on the lower level. The festivities were well under way, in fact, it was after the big lighted ball fell in Time Square, New York, around 1:45 a.m., when this waiter was finishing up for the night. He was hurrying to get back to the kitchen and unload the remains of other people’s libations, picking up the streamers and confetti as he went along, in order to go home for the night, hopefully in time to celebrate for himself. Sadly however, this was not to be, for as he was pulling the now heavy cart toward him, backing up to the elevator, glancing over his shoulder to push the button to go down, he struggled to keep the dishes and trays from toppling over. Making sure not to make a mess, and hearing the door opening behind him, he backed up, cart in tow. In what must have been the most frightening, final moments in his life, he stepped backward into an empty shaft, falling, cart and all to his death below…You see, the elevator landed on the 6^th floor instead of the 5^th.

            No one is quite sure why the elevator malfunctioned, but most speculate that something must have gone wrong during the restoration of the hotel a year earlier. Perhaps the wiring was old or that the elevator needed servicing, either way, a young man lost his life in his prime. His dreams and endeavors, his loves and future hopes were lost that early morning in a long dark shaft. It was not until an hour later that a hotel resident complained that the elevator was stuck and not responding that maintenance was sent to investigate. As the maintenance man pointed his flashlight down the dark shaft, he saw the lifeless body of the waiter below, the service cart covering the upper portion of body. The whole affair was silenced as best as could be, and life went on normally in the hotel. The elevator was repaired and people came and went and business went along as usual. Nevertheless, something was different after the accident…Something scary.

            Almost immediately, the hotel’s staff and guests were noticing strange things taking place. Many of the hotel’s maids to this day are said to refuse working on the 5^th floor alone; demanding to have another maid work with them on their shift, then depart as fast as they can. Many of the La Concha’s staff report being watched while on the 5^th floor; being tapped on the shoulder only to find an empty hallway behind them, or a cold draft passing them as they walked through the hallway. Some staff members claim to see the shadowy image of the waiter himself pushing his cart in the back section of the kitchen after hours, in an unlit portion of the room. Others have found colorful streamers and confetti on the 5^th floor landing when there should not be such things of gayety. When a janitor would go to their supply closet to get a vacuum or broom and dust pan, the party favors that were there only moments before would be gone.

          On several occasions, some of the hotel staff, particularly the overnight staff, would complain that their carts would be found moved from the spot they had left it and would be found sitting neatly by the elevator, as if someone were preparing to take it down to the kitchen. On more than one occasion, a guest had reported seeing a waiter walking down the hallways late at night, walking slowly and stiff, as if he were intoxicated or dazed. When this guest would ask a question to the waiter, he would apparently ignore the guest’s inquiry and turn the corner out of sight. If the guest were persistent enough to walk down the hallway to catch up with him, they would find no one. In addition to finding a streamer or two, or perhaps a light sprinkle of confetti on the 5^th floor, sometimes, a guest might hear strange things. On occasion, when a guest is returning from a late night of partying at one of Key West’s many bars or clubs, he might hear the slight sounds of laughter and an eerie echo of music reminiscent of the 1980s. And, when the night staff is closing the kitchen for the evincing, it’s not uncommon for them to get the feeling that they are not alone, making some of the hotel’s night staff eager to pick up their pace and get out as fast as possible. Is the waiter disgruntled for losing his life that early morning in 1983? Does he still walk the corridors looking for his cart? No one knows for sure, but if you hear the sound of a waiter’s push-cart squeaking past your door late at night when staying at the La Concha, you might want to let it pass before you open the door.  

 

Possible ghostly activity in the hallways, courtesy ‘Talk Paranormal BBS’

 

 

Possible ghostly activity in the hallways, courtesy ‘Talk Paranormal BBS’

 

 

            In addition to the other events, there appears to be several other spirits residing at the La Concha. The presence of Earnest Hemmingway has been felt by many whom have stayed in the same suite the famous author once occupied while entertaining his mistress in the 1930s. He is believed to play tricks on those who spend the night in the suite, usually by moving things around. Known as a form of Psychokinesis or PK by psychical researchers, such events as moving objects were noticedin the early 1990s by a guest in the hotel. Though mostly considered a feat of mind-over-matter by the living, some feel the same source can be utilized by those inhabiting the spectral world too.

              One man staying in this suite complained to the staff that someone was in his room the night before. Apparently, a video tape recorder, which was sitting on a dresser table, fell off by itself, not once, but three times. Each time the machine fell to the floor, the guest would turn on the light and secure the VCR back on the dresser, then go back to bed. After it fell again, he would get up and do the same thing. This time, however, he would check the dresser table to make sure it wasn’t wobbly, thus making the VCR fall off the dresser. As the dresser was found secure and stable, he went back to bed to try to get some sleep, this time letting his eyes adjust to the darkness. As he lay there, he would just stare at the dresser. As he was doing so, he noticed the slight shadow, a shape of what he said looked like a man, slightly hunched over standing in the corner of the room, by the bathroom area. He said he thought it was a trick of the light that barely emanated from the post lights from Duval Street, but as soon as he made this rational deduction, the VCR once again fell the floor, this time sending the gentleman to turn on the night table light in a hurry. He got up not knowing what he would find, and walked around the room thinking for sure someone was in there with him, but the room was empty and the door was locked and secure. Needless to say, the event remained a complete mystery. Although no one is quite sure who the spectre is, if it’s the playful nature of Ernest Hemmingway or that of another former guest from La Concha’s past, one thing is for sure; even if this spirit is just trying to have some fun with the living, it’s a sure bet that this spook will be sending a chill up its victim’s spines. 

             Another ghostly legend concerns the spirit of a man, who is said to have led a life of lies and deceit. He is believed to be the spirit of a dishonest lawyer who was staying at the La Concha in the mid 1980s. According to the staff, this lawyer was being investigated for embezzlement and fraud, which would have sent him to jail and devastated his family. Knowing that it was a Federal inquiry that found enough evidence against him, he decided to make one last desperate plan of escape…One last lie to clear his name and a suicide that would look like murder. The hopeless lawyer decided that if he could make his suicide look like he was murdered; his family would get the insurance money. If he committed suicide however, the insurance company would not pay. Accordingly, he decided to take his hand-held tape recorder and concoct a story on the tape that would make him look innocent of the crime and more importantly, make the authorities believe he was pushed from the balcony of the 7^th floor. Talking wildly into his tape recorder the lawyer paced the roof’s balcony ranting and raving of how his secretary was responsible for the embezzled money and that assassins were coming to kill him. He made a desperate plea for someone to look after his family and that he was completely innocent. Then, he leapt from the balcony to his death below…Tape recorder in hand, complete with about four remaining seconds of the sounds of wind and his final screams.

            Sadly for the deceitful lawyer however, his plans to fool the authorities failed him as the Federal agents were already aware of his crimes and had ample proof of it. The secretary was cleared as innocent and the lawyer’s family did not benefit from the insurance companies. The lawyer went to his grave shameful and forever marked by his transgressions. Although the case was closed and the incident quickly forgotten, the revenant of the lawyer’s guilt seems to continue just as it did when he was pacing the roof’s balcony that fateful evening. On certain occasions, usually around or just after sunset, some have claimed to see a middle-aged man walking back and forth on the balcony in a state of disarray, as if he were mentally ill. Because he would be seen talking to himself frantically and looking over the balcony as if he were going to jump, the people who saw him would call the hotel’s security to help this person. When security arrived however, they would find no one, and no sign of anyone ever being there. Most of the time, witnesses would only hear the pitiful ravings coming from the rooftop. However, on at least on one occasion, a couple sitting in one of the rooms below frantically called down to the front desk to say they had just seen what looked like a body falling from the roof. When the staff raced outside to see if someone had jumped, they found no sign of a body and no one the roof. To this day, the lawyer is said to continue his painful vigil on the rooftop, doomed to retrace his last steps, which would condemn him to this reappearing, residual haunting…Forever regretting his final choices in life. 

 

Considerations

 

             The La Concha Hotel has seen its happy days, and its sad days. It has witnessed the Great depression and has catered to society’s elite. It ushered in happy newlyweds and carried out the dead, and it has seen Florida grow from when it had grass shacks to becoming a vacationer’s paradise. The La Concha is in many ways a representative of not only Florida’s colorful history, but of Key West’s personal significance. The spirits of this wonderful hotel seem to speak volumes of what they had done during their lives, what they have missed or what they regret. The ghostly waiter who will tap you on the shoulder may be trying to ask you why he cannot leave, or perhaps he’s just waiting for someone to show him the way out of the hotel so he can finally go home.  The shade in the corner of Hemmingway’s old suite might very well be the spirit of old “Pappy Hemmingway,” showing his playful side to the living. As his life was as romantic, heroic and as tragic as any of the characters he often wrote about, his tormented soul may have chosen to remain after his suicide so many years ago. The La Concha was a place of refuge for him in life, and perhaps it is a refuge for him today, with the added consolation of being able to play tricks on unsuspecting guests in the middle of the night. And, what of the lamenting lawyer? Will he ever be set free from his unearthly torment? Will he ever be able to forgive himself? Only time will tell.

            Today, the La Concha serves as a place for many happy vacationers to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty and pure fun that Florida has to offer. So, when visiting the gorgeous beaches of Key West, taking advantage of the island shops and the tropical environment, while enjoying the many cafes and restaurants, try to remember the vibrant and sometimes horrific history many of the island’s locations have seen. And, when you’re heading back to the La Concha Hotel for a well-deserved nights rest, just remember to look over your shoulder when walking the quiet halls while en route to your room…You never know who might be standing right behind you.     

 

 

Sources and extras: 

 

Haunted Tours: http://www.hauntedtours.com/LaConcha.html 

http://www.google.com/imgres?start=157&hl=en&biw=1366&bih=597&tbm=isch&tbnid=nfyqMsjDNznJNM:&imgrefurl=http://keysweekly.com/42/a-drink-above-everyone/&imgurl=http://keysweekly.wpcdn.com/wordpress1/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/The-La-Concha-Hotelweb.jpg&w=630&h=800&ei=TT1IUKfsHJOi8ASh_IGYDw&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=988&vpy=225&dur=1601&hovh=253&hovw=199&tx=78&ty=121&sig=104803185202023557194&page=7&tbnh=142&tbnw=117&ndsp=31&ved=1t:429,r:21,s:157,i:332

Talk Paranormal BBS: http://www.talkparanormal.com/archive/index.php/thread-1434.html 

Ghost Tour Photos: http://www.tripadvisor.in/LocationPhotos-g34345-d570027-Ghost_Tours_of_Key_West-Key_West_Florida_Keys_Florida.html 

Ghost Tours: http://www.google.com/imgres?num=10&hl=en&biw=1366&bih=597&tbm=isch&tbnid=N2Acrb4VZp3yRM:&imgrefurl=http://www.hauntedtours.com/Robert.html&imgurl=http://www.hauntedtours.com/sitebuilder/images/balone-533×876.jpg&w=533&h=876&ei=t0FIULWCFIiQ9QSIlYGgDQ&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=276&sig=104803185202023557194&page=1&tbnh=124&tbnw=69&start=0&ndsp=24&ved=1t:429,r:7,s:0,i:96&tx=43&ty=38

 

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ILzuEW1flM 

Key West Paranormal Website: http://www.keywestparanormal.com/Locations/CrownePlazaLaConchaHotel.html

 

 

 

 

 

 

Haunted Inns, Pubs and Eateries of St. Augustine by Greg Jenkins

 

“Once sought after by French Huguenots, Spanish invaders, English privateers and indigenous tribes, St. Augustine is a melting pot of cultural conquests. Anyone who traces its cobblestone streets, sails its vast shoreline or explores its unique architecture senses those who came before. Paranormal researcher and author Dr. Greg Jenkins examines ghostly happenings in the city’s charming inns, pubs and eateries that keep guests looking over their shoulders. There’s the lady with the lantern perched atop the Casablanca Inn who still searches for seafaring bootleggers and the spirit “Catalina” who peers through the window at hungry diners in Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille. Enjoy these stories and more, with personal interviews and documented visitor logs from the featured establishments.”

 

 Haunted Inns, Pubs and Eateries of St. Augustine — ISBN: 9781609494087

 

 

          Here’s my latest book on ghosts and haunted locales of St. Augustine Florida. I’m sure you’ll love these legends as much as I do, and I invite you to read about these fascinating legends, some that date back over 200-years, and decide for yourself, whether or not the oldest city in America is indeed the most haunted city in America.

          Over the years, I have been to literally hundreds of allegedly haunted locations, from abandoned psychiatric hospitals to time-honored hotels, cemeteries and a healthy spattering of private homes. I have heard stories from the most down-to-earth people imaginable, such as from law enforcement officers, educators, lawyers and even a few doctors. Indeed, the belief in spectres, haunted houses and psychic events is abounding all over the globe, and the search for these tidbits of ghost lore has become a world-wide phenomena.

          Having written several books of the subject of ghosts and psychical research from a folkloric perspective; namely Florida’s Ghostly Legends and Haunted Folklore, volumes 1-3, with Pineapple Press; books that cover some of the most interesting ghostly tales ever told in the Sunshine State, including a few never before heard legends from Key West to Tallahassee, and from Sarasota to Cocoa Beach, I found that there are even more stories to be unearthed here in sunny Florida. As such, I began searching further for other odd tales of a supernatural nature, and sure enough, I found more than my share to work with. So, looking beyond the graveyards and deserted buildings, where spectres and shadow people are said to roam, I focused on other aspects of strange and often frightening, and discovered accounts of monsters and other undiscovered creatures, not to mention first-hand relations of UFO encounters and similar weird experiences, and culminated a book on these subjects titled: Chronicles of the Strange and Uncanny in Florida…A book that might have you looking over your shoulder from time to time.   

         Now, after completing another series of in-depth investigations from America’s oldest city, one of my favorite vacationing destinations, I’m now focusing my paranormal investigations on the main businesses in the ancient city; the bed and breakfast inns, and the many restaurants and pubs that offer its visitors a great time, while expressing southern hospitality that only St. Augustine can muster.

          Though not as large as most cities in America, its past is certainly larger than most. Indeed, though I’ve investigated many spooky locales over the years, and have stayed in many ‘haunted’ hotels and dined in restaurants with suspected ghosts of a bygone era, I can honestly say that St. Augustine has all these things, wrapped up in a blanket of antiquity and culture, which is also likely a hotspot for a plethora of ghosts too.      

          Haunted Inns, Pubs and Eateries of St. Augustine is your invitation to spend a night or two at one of these fine bed-and-breakfast inns or dine at any number of the festive restaurants here and see for yourself if those denizens of the netherworld, the ghosts of ages past, do indeed remain. Perhaps you, too, will be one of the countless witnesses to the paranormal firsthand. And maybe, just maybe, you will believe.

          Order your copy today…

 

 

Feature Locales

  

House of Sea & Sun

   2-B Street 

Bayfront Marin House

   142 Avenida Menendez 

Casablanca Inn

   24 Avenida Menendez 

Casa de Sueños

   20 Cordova Street 

St. Francis Inn

   279 St. George Street 

Miss Caroline’s Guest House

   41 San Marcos Avenue 

Ancient City Inn

   47 San Marco Avenue 

Our House of St. Augustine

   7 Cincinnati Avenue 

O.C. White’s Seafood & Spirits

   118 Avenida Menendez 

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille

   46 Avenida Menendez 

Prince of Wales Restaurant

   54 Cuna Street 

Scarlett O’Hara’s Bar and Restaurant

   70 Hypolita Street 

Stogies Jazz Club & Listening Room

   36 Charlotte Street 

Hurricane Patty’s Restaurant

   69 Lewis Boulevard

 

 

*********************************************************************************************

 

*For ordering information:

https://www.historypress.net/catalogue/bookstore/books/New%20Titles/Haunted-Inns,-Pubs-and-Eateries-of-St.-Augustine/9781609494087

 

 

             Magan Thomas                                           Meredith Riddick

      Sales Representative                                     Sales Support

             Magan.thomas@historypress.net         Meredith.riddick@historypress.net

                 843-209-1255                                              866-457-5971 x 121

 

               Published by The History Press

            Charleston, SC  29403

            www.historypress.net

 

 

If you’re interested in interviewing the proprietors of these fine establishments, you may contact them at your leisure: 

 

Ancient City Inn. http://www.ancientcityinn.com.  

Bayfront Marin House. http://www.bayfrontmarinhouse.com.  

Casablanca Inn. http://www.casablancainn.com.  

Casa de Sueños. http://www.casadesuenos.com.  

Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille. http://www.hookedonharrys.com/page/28-4189.htm.  

House of Sea & Sun. http://www.houseofseaandsun.com.  

Hurricane Patty’s Restaurant. http://www.hurricanepattys.net.  

Miss Caroline’s Guest House. www.misscarolinesguesthouse.com.  

O.C. White’s Seafood and Spirits. http://www.ocwhites.com.  

Our House of St. Augustine. http://ourhouseofstaugustine.com.  

Prince of Wales Restaurant. http://www.theprinceofwalesstaugustine.com.  

Scarlett O’Hara’s Bar and Restaurant. http://www.scarlettoharas.net.  

St. Francis Inn. http://www.stfrancisinn.com.  

Stogies Jazz Club & Listening Room. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stogies-Jazz-Club-Listening-Room/117378394948354.

 

 

Remember, for even more tales of the paranormal; be sure to check out my other books: Florida’s Ghostly Legends and Haunted Folklore, volumes 1-3 and Chronicles of the Strange and Uncanny in Florida by Pineapple Press. 

 

http://www.pineapplepress.com/floridasghostlylegendsseries.html

 

 

 

Flagler’s Whitehall Museum and the Legend of Mary Lily Kenan

“More wonderful than any palace in Europe, grander and more magnificent than any other private dwelling in the world…” 

New York Herald, 30 March, 1902 

 

 

 Whitehall Museum, www.flaglermuseum.us/

 

          One of the highlights of living in Florida for so many years was having a plethora of beautiful landmarks all around us, which were close enough to visit at any given moment. And because of the early history of the Sunshine State was rife with the conquests of land barons and other tycoons, we have some of the most elegant landmarks imaginable. When brilliant architect Addison Mizner discovered Boca Raton in the 1920s, the famous and most elegant Boca Raton Hotel and Resort was born, among other notable landmark icons throughout the state. But it was Mizner’s predecessor; Henry Morrison Flagler; founder of the Standard Oil Company during the 1870s that is likely the most notable in American success stories. Indeed, he was a visionary with a seemingly Midas touch, as where ever he went, he found fortune in one-way or another, that continues to amaze and inspire fortune seekers today. After making millions in oil, and from his northern real estate endeavors, as well as other conquests, it was only a matter of time that he would wish to escape the snow, and cold, and discover the beauty and warmth of sunny Florida.

 

  

Mary Lily Kenan, Florida Memory Project

 

           Because there were many family concerns, namely Flagler’s present wife, who had been struggling with tuberculosis and other health problems, the idea of moving south, seemed to be the most logical choice. Upon doctor’s orders, the Flagler family visited Jacksonville during the winter months in 1878, and instantly Henry Flagler fell in love with the location and serenity. Sadly however, Ms. Flagler’s illness grew worse, and she died on 18 May, 1881 at the young age of 47. In what would be a tradition for Henry Flagler, it wasn’t long after his wife’s death that he would marry her nurse, Miss Ida Alice Shourds. The happy couple moved to St. Augustine, where Flagler would recognize the city’s potential for growth and profit, and begin building a new empire. Because there was a lack of proper transportation, and hotels in St. Augustine, so he decided to build them.

          After Flagler completed the Grand Hotel Ponce de Leon in St. Augustine in 1885, he decided he would need to build a better transportation system for his guests. He purchased an entire railroad system to complement his chain of luxury hotels, which included The Breakers, and the Royal Poinciana Hotel in Palm Beach, as well as The Royal Palm Hotel in Miami, and The Casa Marina Hotel in Key West. While traveling throughout Florida, he found West Palm Beach delightful, particularly the beautiful and secluded Palm Beach Island. With an astute epiphany common to the mogul, Flagler immediately began planning his future estate to sit next to the Island’s Intracoastal Waterway. He designed, and built the 55-room mansion on 60,000 square feet of property, as a wedding present for his last wife, Mary Lily Kenan. Flagler commissioned the same architects he used for the Hotel Ponce de Leon in St. Augustine to design his wedding gift, and he would christen it “Whitehall,” after the great architectural masterpieces of Europe, specifically the style of Beaux Arts; and meant to rival the extravagant mansions in Newport, Rhode Island.  

          The architects were responsible for the exterior, the interior layout, the marble entrance, and the grand double staircase. The facade of Whitehall is marked by massive marble columns, crowned with red-barrel tiling on the roof, built entirely around a central courtyard. There are two floors, an attic, and even a basement, becoming a mansion as elegant as any hotel Flagler would put his name on. The grand public rooms on the first floor are reminiscent of the high façade period of the 19^th century hotels of New York. There are twelve guestrooms, as well as rooms for the house servants on the second floor, and even rooms for the servants of Flagler’s guests…A class only Henry Flagler could have designed. Without a doubt, the end result of the Whitehall Mansion was so admired; many referred to it as a Taj Mahal-like structure. And, on March 30^th 1902, the New York Herald described Whitehall Mansion as “More wonderful than any palace in Europe, grander and more magnificent than any other private dwelling in the world…” Indeed, a world class sentiment for an equally world class wedding gift.

 

 

The Beautiful Whitehall Hotel, Florida Memory project

 

          In addition to this masterpiece, Whitehall would have a ten-story addition built behind the main mansion known as the Whitehall Hotel. This beautiful hotel apartment-like complex had its grand opening on New Year’s Eve, 1927, long after Henry Flagler passed away, though it is said that the primary architectural plans were of Flager’s designs, so it was accepted as one of his own creations, though posthumerously. The local newspapers described it as “more formal than the Royal Poinciana Hotel,” as it catered to high society; offering dining and dancing in the ornate “Jardin Royal Hall.” The Sammy Eisenorchestra played there on many occasions, and many well-known New Yorkers made it a yearly destination too, with such personalities as Mosette Morganstern, Mrs. Harry Schwartz, Irving Geist,and Issac Levy gracing this lovely locale. Indeed, in its heyday, the Whitehall Hotel became a choice winter home for many Jewish visitors, and other Seventh Avenue and Wall Street personalities, according to articles featured in Palm Beach Life magazine during the 1930s and 1940s.  Sadly for Palm Beach Island’s community and America’s royalty everywhere, when Flagler’s heirs converted Whitehall to the Flagler Museum, the hotel was demolished, most likely due to age and outdated building codes. A landmark as grand as any Flagler creation was gone, leaving a barren yard and a ghostly mystery in its place.

          Henry Flagler, the man who had lived a life most of us can only dream about, the man with the Midas touch, had become old and frail. His history with his wives was extraordinary bad. With failed marriages, his first wife lost to Tuberculosis, and second wife Ida Alice lost to madness and heroin abuse, later to die alone in an insane asylum, and lastly, Mary Lily Kenan, the once young and beautiful, was also destine for insanity. In spite of wealth and fortune, Henry Flagler had seen his share of failure and sadness. In 1913, at the ripe old age 84, Henry would die from injuries sustained from a fall down the ornate marble staircase in his beloved Whitehall Mansion. An American Legacy and a Floridian legend was dead. He was buried in St. Augustine alongside his first wife Mary Harkness, and daughter Jennie Louise.

          Mary Lily Kenan, whom he had married after divorcing his second wife, another victim of incurable insanity and consumption, is said to have ranted and raved, running through Whitehall screaming, and cursing at the servants. When not enraged, she would spend her time staring out of her second floor bedroom window for hours at a time, suspicious and jealous of Henry’s alleged mistresses and of the other family members and in-laws; she would end up dying alone and miserable.  Today, the Whitehall Mansion is a Museum, listed as a National Historic Landmark and open to the public. It ushers in countless visitors wishing to see the home of such an industrious person, as well as those who have a taste for the finer things in life. Some come to see the pride that went into the architecture of yesteryear, and some even go there in search of the ghosts of Whitehall’s illustrious past, where to this day, although long dead and buried, Henry Flagler, and Mary Lily Kenan are said to still walk the stately halls of Whitehall Mansion.

 

  

An angry face that peers from a darkened window and the misty shape of an old man  

 

          Growing up in South Florida, and having friends in West Palm Beach, I have had many occasions to visit the Whitehall Mansion over the years. I can recall this stately mansion as something to be beheld as more than just a work of art, but truly a masterpiece of design. I also remember the many ghost stories that went along with it, hearing the many testimonies of paranormal happenings from the staff here.  When visiting with friends in Palm Beach Island, it was customary to entertain our dates by eating at one of the Island’s fancy restaurants, then going for a stroll on the Victorian looking pathways around Whitehall Mansion, which rests ever-so eloquently beside the Intracoastal Waterway. It was while on such an evening when my friend who told me of the ghostly history of Henry Flagler and his wife Mary Lily Kenan, and how she will sometimes be seen staring at you through a second floor window on the southern side of the mansion. Indeed, of the several ghostly sightings readily heard of, Mary Lily stands out the most. Almost everyone in Palm Beach Island knows the legend of Mary Lily being seen on second floor, staring out the window on those walking under the huge trees on the quaint pathway. Many know that she is said to stare at you with eyes as mean, and as judicious as could be, making the witness’ feel like they’re trespassing; only to see this angry vision simply dissolve before their eyes. Sometimes, Mary Lily is seen running through the halls of the mansion after hours, complete with flowing dress, and a large hat with feather plumb. Although she is more a shape of a woman wearing such an outfit, than that of a recognizable person, the image has certainly frightened a few people over the years. Whether or not the spirit of Mary Lily is happy, or sad, one thing is for sure — She is still quite insane!

          Although Mary Lily seems to get first billing at the Whitehall Mansion, Henry Flagler has been witnessed from time to time ascending, or descending the massive marble staircase either early in the morning, or late at night. Although the Whitehall Mansion is a museum, a caretaker will stay here from time to time, as well as family members, and their guests from the Flagler dynasty. This select group of people will have the greatest chances of witnessing the paranormal firsthand. In fact, over the years, people have reported seeing a gentleman walking up the stairs, with his back turned toward them. He is reported as being an older man, wearing old style clothing, and bracing the handrail tightly as he’s climbing the stairs. When the witness goes to a staff member, or volunteer to let them know there’s an elderly man walking up the stairs, and that they’re worried that he might fall, the staff naturally goes to investigate, in order to make sure this older gentleman isn’t lost, and that he doesn’t hurt himself. After a careful search in every room however, they find no one. Not a soul.

          Although Henry Flagler has been seen walking through the hallways of his beloved Whitehall Mansion, he is most often seen walking on the stairs where he had fallen, the place that ended his life. Indeed, he was 84 years of age, and entitled to be weak, and a little feeble, but that just wasn’t Henry Flagler. Flagler was the kind of man who always had to be on top of things, and most of all, in control. In death however, he seems to have lost most of that spirit entirely, leaving the paranormal events in the spectral hands of others.  Perhaps Henry is merely watching the living now in order to remember what he had once had in life, and what he can now no longer possess. Perhaps he spends most of his time at the Hotel Ponce de Leon, now Flagler College, where he searches for one of his mistresses of long ago; a mistress, in fact, that has become a sullen ghost herself; a spirit known to St. Augustine locals as the “Lady in Blue.” Perhaps Flagler is simply visiting the many landmarks, and palaces’ he literally created here in Florida for the sake of remembrance. Either way, this frail spectre appears to have little to do with the other supernatural activity at the Whitehall Mansion.  

         During the 1970s, staunch non-believers in ghosts and hauntings reported a significant amount of paranormal events within and around the home; events that have been passed down from volunteer to volunteer, and from visitor to visitor. Evidently, plates, and other priceless eating utensils were found completely smashed within a locked glass cupboard. These events had many staff members, and volunteers’ believing the breakage was caused by Mary Lily, who was showing her disgust and hatred for the heirlooms that had once belonged to the Flagler children, the children who are said to have hated Mary Lily in life. In addition to the broken heirlooms, the front door handles, and locking mechanisms would sometimes be found tampered with when a staff member was preparing to go home after a late night function, or when a family member was preparing to leave the mansion. Apparently, on several occasions, the door latch, which is a turn-of-the-century type latch, will be found turned all the way around in a direction that will make the handle catch hold of the door frame, making it impossible to open. The occupant is forced to go out another door in the rear section of the mansion, or through a window. When this unfortunate person goes to investigate the front door, he or she will find the latch in an unnatural position, or back to normal, as if never touched. Moreover, the huge iron gates that surround the mansion will sometimes be found closed, and locked by unseen hands.

          On occasion, when this hapless worker or family member is alone inside the museum, the lights will flicker at the moment of this ghostly trick plays out, as if someone or something is letting the living know that they’re not alone. Still stranger events like doors slowly opening or closing in front of a visitor is common too. And, if that’s not odd enough, certain portraits located at the north-west end of the museum will sometimes be found detached from the wall and placed neatly on a nearby chair or lounging seat. What makes this spooky is that these portraits had been unscrewed from the wall, which is a necessary precaution from theft, though this isn’t the spooky part. You see, these portraits are artistic effigies known as death, or post mortem portraits; paintings of family members made after their death — Creepy indeed.      

          Once, when a family member was visiting, she brought her little dog with her to keep her company, as she would be left alone in the mansion from time-to-time. She felt having her dog around might ease any apprehensions about being left alone in such a massive place. One early afternoon during such a visit, she heard the dog barking in the northern hallway. When she went to see what the dog was barking at, the lady found him sitting, wagging his tail, and staring at a painting. She just stared at the dog with a queer look, wondering why he was making such a fuss. When she looked closely at the wall where the dog was barking at, she only saw a collection of paintings, and it was at that moment she had remembered this assortment of paintings were of her dead relatives.

          As this visiting guest was understandably unnerved, she brushed the event off, and prepared to go out for a banquet that evening. It was getting late, and she needed to go upstairs to get something from her garment bag. As she was getting ready to do so, she realized she was now the only one left in the mansion. All the volunteers and staff members went home for the evening. Regardless of this thought however, she started climbing the stairs, and called for her dog to accompany her. The dog ran up as quickly as usual, racing as fast as he could, and as the little dog was prone to winning the race with his master, the lady just let him do so, with a smile on her face. The smile dimmed however, when as the little dog stared to reach the upper steps, he stopped dead in his tracks. The dog began to growl; and then he began to bark wildly, with deep growls mingled in. The little dog just stared into the darkened hallways, and rooms, places that are so bright and majestic during the day. Now, the lady knew no one was in the house, and she really had a hard time entertaining the idea of ghosts inside Whitehall Mansion, but when the dog turned tail, and ran past the lady still growling, she decided to adhere to the better part of valor and leave for her engagement without going upstairs…Probably a good idea.

          There have been other similar occurrences at Whitehall over the years, but for the most part, Mary Lily Kenan, the resident spectre makes the most nocturnal visits. In addition to people witnessing this bitter, but docile ghost peering through the second floor bedroom window, a few women have claimed to have seen her, dressed in all her regalia while using the lady’s bathroom. On at least two occasions, Mary Lily has been seen staring into the bathroom mirror, as if in deep thought. When a living female visitor washes her hands, she might see this spooky image. The visitor may then politely ask if there is going to be a photo-shoot that day, or a movie being filmed there, only to be ignored. When this pensive, costumed lady does respond, the visitor just leaves, and when she asks a volunteer if there are any actors filming in the museum, or if there are any costumed people there, the answer is usually no. When they go into the bathroom to check the story out, the bathroom is found empty — Just another mystery in the gorgeous, but sometimes inauspicious Whitehall Mansion.    

          Though these are the most commonplace reports of Whitehall’s spirit life, there have been a scant few reports that a lively party had been witnessed from across the Intracoastal Waterway. Apparently, some have viewed a party or reception taking place on the water-side section of the Flagler Museum. At first, this simply appears to be yet another get-together for the rich and famous, but then the witness realizes that its very late at night; in most cases after 1:00 A.M., and more importantly, that this out-of-place party is taking place next to a tall building. Though this may not sound like a big deal, Palm Beach locals know their history, at least a good portion of it, and know for sure that there are no such structures of that size next to the stately museum. When they look a bit harder at the strange event, the witness may notice that the lights in the high-rise are a bit brighter than normal, or a bit more colorful. The witness may also notice that the partygoers are dressed even more fancy than normal, even for Palm Beach Island. And when they look away, likely thinking that they’re just misidentifying the location as being closer to the nearby township, their interest resides. Yet, when this witness looks back just one more time, that festive, colorful event will simply be gone, as if it was never there. Was this a ghostly party of yesteryear, a remnant of Whitehall’s once grand hotel?

          Only the ghostly partygoers know for sure.

 

 

Considerations

  

 

          When visiting the delightful province of West Palm Beach, be sure to cross the bridge into Palm Beach Island. Make a date with the finer things in life. Be sure to visit Worth Avenue, where kings and queens have shopped, and dine in the restaurants that must be experienced to be believed. Enjoy the beaches, the nightclubs, and stay in one of the five star hotels this luxurious island offers, but above all, visit the mansion that Henry Flagler called home, the beautiful Whitehall Mansion.

          When the sun goes down, take a stroll on the beautiful walkways leading around the stately museum, and gaze into the darkened windows of the mansion’s second floor. Perhaps you too will catch a glimpse of the woeful Mary Lily Kenan staring down at you with a look that might have you regretting you’re even there. When visiting the Whitehall Mansion, be sure to take a look at the macabre death paintings hanging on the walls of the northern corridors, and see if you can find out why the little dog was barking while standing in this creepy hallway. Climb the stairs where Henry Flagler fell from grace and see if you too can feel the cold spots here, as so many psychics have over the years. Indeed, perhaps you find out why that little dog turned tail and ran down those stairs for dear life — Who knows, you might just meet Mary Lily Kenan face-to-face.

*Flagler’s Whitehall Mansion & Museum is located on the corner of Coconut Row, and Whitehall Way in Palm Beach, Florida. The Museum is open year round. The hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m. Closed on Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas. For more information, you may call 561-655-2833.

 

Interesting links: 

 

http://flaglermuseum.us/ 

http://www.newyorksocialdiary.com/node/1904526/print 

http://juneinparadise.blogspot.com/2012/01/henry-flaglers-doomed-wives.html 

http://www.drbronsontours.com/henrymorrisonflagler.html