Tag: paranormal investigation

Why Paranormal Beliefs Surge After Tragedies: From the Civil War to COVID-19

Alex Matsuo

Throughout history, national tragedies and major disasters have had a profound impact on beliefs, especially around the paranormal and the afterlife. In the wake of crises like the Civil War, World Wars, 9/11, and the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a consistent and notable rise in public interest in paranormal beliefs, often manifesting in increased use of psychic mediums, séances, and tools like the Ouija board. This trend is not coincidental; it reflects a deeply human need to seek comfort, meaning, and connection amid overwhelming loss and uncertainty.

The Civil War: Laying the Groundwork for Spiritualism

The Civil War (1861-1865) is often considered the starting point for the formalization of paranormal beliefs and practices in the United States. The massive loss of life, often on unfamiliar battlefields far from home, left families unable to bury or even say proper goodbyes to their loved ones. This left a deep psychological scar and a yearning to connect with the spirits of the deceased. The Spiritualism movement, which had begun over a decade before, gained significant momentum during this time. People found solace in the notion that the spirits of their loved ones could be reached and that the afterlife was not a complete separation. This period saw a surge in the popularity of mediums, séances, and eventually talking boards (which would become commercialized and better known as the Ouija board), which provided a way for families to feel close to their lost loved ones.

Vintage ad for a fortune teller. Source unknown.

World War I and World War II: Heightening Spiritual Curiosity

Following the Civil War, World War I (1914-1918) and World War II (1939-1945) ushered in new waves of death, displacement, and loss. Particularly in England and the United States, mourning practices took on a more mystical quality, with Spiritualism once again becoming an outlet for grief and closure. Mediums were in high demand, offering to connect bereaved families with soldiers who had died overseas. Harry Houdini, himself a skeptic, became both a critic of Spiritualism and an investigator, seeking out those who offered services to grieving families. The Ouija board, patented in 1891, saw renewed interest during this period as well, as families sought to commune with those lost in the wars.

During World War II, the anxiety and devastation were so widespread that they intensified public engagement with the supernatural. Figures like Helen Duncan, a medium who famously claimed to summon the dead, became icons, and spirit communication thrived. The combination of economic hardship, personal loss, and existential fear brought about a longing to connect with the other side, keeping the idea of a paranormal connection firmly rooted in the public imagination.

9/11 and the Need for Connection

The September 11 attacks in 2001 were a modern-day tragedy that echoed the same human reaction: after the initial shock and grief, people began searching for meaning and connection. Interest in paranormal phenomena, from ghost sightings to spirit communication, surged after 9/11. This disaster differed from past wars in that it wasn’t fought on distant soil but struck directly in the United States, amplifying the trauma and loss experienced by Americans. Psychic mediums gained popularity as people searched for closure and answers, hoping that departed loved ones might still be reachable in some way. Television networks and popular culture also began producing more shows about hauntings and ghost-hunting, as Americans became increasingly curious about the afterlife.

One of many vintage ads cleverly using the Ouija board to boost product appeal. This ad was for Ipana Toothpaste. Credit: Salem Witch Board Museum

COVID-19 Pandemic: A Renewed Surge in Paranormal Curiosity

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about yet another wave of interest in the paranormal. With the global death toll rising into the millions and people facing isolation, fear, and mourning on a mass scale, people began turning to spiritual practices and paranormal tools to find solace. Social media played a significant role, allowing people to share their experiences and interact with paranormal practitioners, further boosting interest in psychics, mediums, and divination tools.

Pandemic-related grief has also revived curiosity in the Ouija board. As people were forced to stay home and avoid public gatherings, some found a sense of community in virtual séances or with “DIY” paranormal exploration at home. Although technology provided many ways to connect with others during the lockdowns, there was also a noticeable uptick in interest in spirit communication methods, as the pandemic sparked reflection on mortality and the unknown. From this, a robust appetite for paranormal content on various social media outlets like TikTok and YouTube manifested.

The Ouija Board and Psychic Mediums: A Historical Lifeline for the Grieving

The Ouija board, first patented in 1890, has become one of the most iconic symbols of the paranormal. Originally marketed as a parlor game, it quickly became a tool for spirit communication during times of tragedy. Whenever society faced widespread death, people turned to the board in hopes of speaking to those who had passed on. This surge happened during the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918, again during the World Wars, and has continued into recent times. Psychic mediums, similarly, have served as lifelines for those desperate for communication. In each major disaster, mediums and Ouija boards provided an outlet for grief, offering comfort to people trying to come to terms with their loss.

Ad for ROZA KULESHOVA, Russian psychic, ‘sees’ with her fingers, circa 1963. Credit: Fate Magazine

The Psychology of Grief and the Paranormal

Psychologically, the human response to grief is complex, and for many, spiritual or paranormal beliefs provide a coping mechanism. Tragedy disrupts our lives, forcing us to confront mortality in ways we may not be prepared for. Many people find it comforting to believe that their loved ones are not entirely gone, that they can still be reached through spirit communication or paranormal experiences. This need for closure has led to the paranormal becoming a regular, if temporary, sanctuary in times of distress.

The Role of Media and Technology

As media has evolved, so has our connection to the paranormal. Today, movies, television, and social media heavily influence our beliefs in the supernatural. Ghost-hunting shows and paranormal podcasts have become more popular, and social media has enabled people to share their own ghost stories and encounters in real-time, adding to the cultural acceptance of paranormal experiences. After major tragedies, we often see a resurgence of paranormal-themed media, reflecting and amplifying public interest in the unknown.

Conclusion: Seeking Comfort in the Unseen

Throughout history, times of great loss have spurred the desire to connect with something beyond the physical world. From the Civil War to the COVID-19 pandemic, each tragedy has left an imprint on our beliefs about the supernatural. Psychic mediums, Ouija boards, and other forms of spirit communication serve as mechanisms to process grief, offering comfort in our darkest hours. Whether we seek closure, reassurance, or a sense of connection, these beliefs persist because they resonate with a universal human need: to feel that love and connection endure, even in the face of death.

The Legend of the Bunny Man: Urban Myth or Reality?

Alex Matsuo1 Comment

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

When I first moved to Northern Virginia, the story that intrigued me most was the legend of Bunny Man Bridge. It didn’t take long to realize how this eerie tale had taken on a life of its own. As I researched for my book, Haunted Northern Virginia, it seemed like everyone I spoke to had the same advice: “Make sure you include Bunny Man Bridge!”

But who exactly is the Bunny Man? Where did this legend come from? And is Bunny Man Bridge really haunted?

The Bunny Man Legend

The original story of the Bunny Man dates back to 1904. As the legend goes, a bus transporting patients from a local asylum to Lorton Reformatory crashed. This caused all the patients on board to escape. All but two inmates, Douglas Griffin and Marcus Wallster, were found.

When authorities searched for the two men, they found the remains of rabbits strewn around the area. They also found the body of Marcus Wallster. The story claims Griffin was using the rabbits for food—and perhaps more disturbingly—for clothing. Griffin had been convicted of killing his family. Soon, the terrifying figure of a man in a bunny suit began to stalk the area around Colchester Overpass in Clifton. This earned the area its title; Bunny Man Bridge.

Also according to legend, a group of teenagers were hanging out at Bunny Man Bridge on Halloween night. When they didn’t return the next morning, a search party was sent out. The teens were found strung up under the tunnel of Bunny Man Bridge. It looked like they were mutilated with a hatchet.

Source: The World Coos Bay, Oregon • Sat, Oct 31, 1970 Page 16

How the Legend Grew

Over the years, the Bunny Man’s tale became even darker. The story transformed into one of an axe-wielding madman who skins his victims. He leaves their remains hanging from Bunny Man Bridge. Some versions claim that on Halloween night, anyone daring to visit the bridge risks being killed by the Bunny Man.

These gruesome details don’t appear in any historical records, but they continue to fuel the legend. Could belief in the Bunny Man have given life to something more? Despite these reports, no further incidents occurred, and the case was never solved. However, the Bunny Man legend was born—and it quickly snowballed into something far more sinister.

After 1970, countless stories and urban legends stemmed about Bunny Man. One could say he turned into a Grimm’s fairy tale about Northern Virginia.

Uncovering the Truth: Was the Bunny Man Real?

Despite the legend’s persistence, there’s no historical evidence to support it. Fairfax County never had an asylum, and Lorton Prison didn’t even exist in 1904, it opened in 1910. Douglas Griffin’s name doesn’t appear in any court records.

So where did this story come from? As I often say, “There’s truth in fairy tales.” In this case, the truth may lie in two incidents from the 1970s.

In October 1970, two reports emerged of a man in a bunny suit terrorizing local residents. The first incident involved a couple parked near a relative’s house on October 19th, 1970. The gentleman was an Air Force cadet named Robert Bennett. He and his fiancée saw a figure in a white suit with long bunny ears in their rearview mirror. Before the couple could go investigate, the man hurled a hatchet at their car, screaming at them for trespassing. The hatchet went through their window.

On October 29th, 1970, a security guard spotted a man in a bunny suit. This man was also wielding an axe and shouting similar threats at a construction site saying that he was tired of people trespassing.

Credit: The Washington Daily News Washington, District of Columbia Wed, Nov 11, 1970 · Page 3

Can Collective Belief Create a Paranormal Entity?

One theory I have surrounding the Bunny Man is the idea that he may be a thoughtform. This is a being created through the power of collective belief. In the 1970s, a group of parapsychologists in Toronto conducted The Philip Experiment. They attempted to manifest a spirit through their collective imagination and belief.

Could the Bunny Man be a similar phenomenon? As more people told the story and believed in his existence, is it possible that they collectively created the Bunny Man? If so, perhaps the most terrifying thing about this legend isn’t that the Bunny Man was ever real—but that he has become real through the fear and fascination of those who keep the story alive.

The Bunny Man Bridge Today

Despite the lack of historical evidence, Bunny Man Bridge continues to attract visitors every Halloween, daring to test the legend’s power. Whether you believe in ghosts, cryptids, or thoughtforms, the tale of the Bunny Man endures as a chilling reminder of how urban legends can shape our reality.

If you want to dive deeper into the haunted histories and ghostly mysteries of Northern Virginia, be sure to check out my book Haunted Northern Virginia, available now.

Sources

https://research.fairfaxcounty.gov/local-history/bunnyman

https://www.insidenova.com/headlines/northern-virginia-ghosts-spirits-witches-and-the-bunny-man/article_164fb91c-60b5-11e4-a99d-3b8c50270542.html

https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/2003/10/31/boo-its-the-bunny-man/75237ae1-2bdf-4e1a-9c91-c0f2f0ed0191

The True Story Of The Bunnyman, Northern Virginia’s Most Gruesome Urban Legend

Haunted Northern Virginia: The Chilling Echoes of the Henry House

Alex Matsuo2 Comments

The American Civil War left an indelible mark on the landscape of Northern Virginia, with countless battlefields and historic sites forever scarred by the ravages of that bloody conflict. But among the most haunting of these places is the Henry House, originally known as Spring Hill Farm, a modest 19th-century structure that stands on land that that stood as a somber witness to the horrors of war.

The Tragedy of Judith Henry

Few tales are as harrowing and heartbreaking as the tragic demise of Judith Henry. Her story, once confined to the dusty pages of history, has taken on a far more sinister and supernatural edge in the years since. The original Henry House, was a modest 19th-century structure on what is now the Manassas Battlefield.

The Henry House after the First Battle of Bull Run

On July 21st, 1861, Judith Carter Henry, an 85-year-old widow, met her untimely and gruesome end. As the Battle of Bull Run raged around her, the bedridden Judith was unable to heed the calls to evacuate, nor did she want to leave her home. Her children attempted to take her out of the home on a mattress. But as the smoke and gunfire raged, Judith begged to be taken home.

Federal artillerary fired at the house as a strategy to drive away Confederate sharpshooters, unaware that there were civilians inside. Her daughter, Ellen, was forced to take refuge in the home’s chimney, her screams drowned out by the thunderous roar of artillery. The volume of the fire caused Ellen to temporarily lose her hearing because it was so loud. Judith’s enslaved teenager, Lucy Griffith, was seeking refuge under the bed and suffered an injury to her heel.

Caught in the crossfire, Judith was struck by cannon fire, sustaining horrific injuries that would ultimately claim her life. She was wounded in the neck and on her side. Plus, Judith’s foot was partially blown off. Judith died later that afternoon.

She was the only civilian casualty that day, and she was the first known civilian casualty of the Civil War.

The house was completely destroyed. The Henry family built a new home near the site of the original house in 1870 and an addition was included in 1884. Judith’s grave stands in front of the house. The house stayed in the Henry family until the 1920s when it was given to the Manassas Battlefield Park.

The Haunting of the Henry House

But Judith’s tragic demise was not the only darkness to haunt the Henry House. Reports include the sightings of a spectral Union soldier. His ghostly form has been seen roaming the halls of the current structure, eternally seeking retribution for the wounds that claimed his life. And then there are the sightings of the women themselves – Judith and Ellen, their ethereal forms glimpsed through the windows, their faces etched with an eternal sadness.

The reconstructed Henry House with Judith’s grave. Credit: Alex Matsuo

The most chilling of these apparitions, however, is that of a woman in a white nightgown and bonnet, gliding silently along the path surrounding the Henry House. Is this Judith, forever tethered to the home she loved so dearly? Or is it the spirit of her daughter, Ellen, forever searching for the solace that eluded her in life?

The Enduring Mystery

The answers lie shrouded in the shadows of the past. They are lost to the ravages of time and the unspeakable tragedies of war. What is certain is that the Henry House stands as a haunting testament to the cost of conflict. It is a place where the echoes of the past refuse to be silenced.

Those who dare to venture near the Henry House report an overwhelming sense of unease, a palpable chill that seems to seep into the very bones. Some have even spoken of the feeling of being watched, of unseen eyes that follow their every move. Also, in the quiet of the night, mournful wails of the departed can be heard. It is chilling reminder that the dead may not yet found their final rest.

A Haunting Legacy

If you find yourself drawn to the Henry House, tread carefully. For in its shadows, the past still lingers, a testament to the fragility of life and the enduring power of the human spirit, even in the face of the most unimaginable horrors. The ghosts of Judith and Ellen, and the nameless soldier, still walk these grounds, their stories forever etched into the fabric of this haunted place.

The ruins after the Henry House was demolished. Credit: Library of Congress

To learn more about this chilling story and other hauntings in the area, pick up a copy of my book, Haunted Northern Virginia, published by The History Press. Immerse yourself in the ghostly lore and history that still lingers in the region. Available now for purchase on Amazon. (Note: This is an affiliate link. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through it, at no additional cost to you.)

Sources

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/the-civil-wars-first-civilian-casualty-was-an-elderly-widow-from-virginia-180980434

https://www.womenhistoryblog.com/2008/06/judith-carter-henry.html

https://www.nps.gov/places/000/henry-house.htm

History of Judith Henry and Her House

Why You Shouldn’t Use Generative AI In Spirit Communication

Alex Matsuo5 Comments

Generative AI and AI has truly changed the world. But how useful is it in the paranormal? Is using generative AI in spirit communication even possible? Let’s take a deep dive and find out.

In my day job, I work as a learning experience designer and I work for one of the leading cloud computing companies. This means I have extensive familiarity with the various AI platforms, companies, and tools in the market. My experience gives me unique insight into how generative AI operates, as well as its benefits and limitations.

My technical knowledge, combined with my experience in the paranormal field, informs my perspective on why these tools should be approached with caution when applied beyond data review and investigation. While these AI systems can offer amazing capabilities for processing and analyzing large amounts of data, using them in contexts like spirit communication raises important concerns.

How AI Functions

When it comes to using generative AI for spirit communication, several issues arise, particularly because of how AI functions. One of the primary issues is that AI models are trained on vast datasets of human-created content, meaning they inherently reflect biases.

Since we have yet to establish a baseline definition of what a spirit is, how it communicates, or what constitutes a genuine spirit voice, it becomes nearly impossible to train AI to accurately identify or interact with spirits. AI needs something tangible to create an accurate output, and without a concrete framework, it’s left to generate responses based on human patterns and expectations, which may not reflect paranormal reality. This can skew results and lead investigators to believe they are receiving meaningful responses when, in fact, they are not.

This makes it likely that an AI will misunderstand or misrepresent spiritual communication, as it is designed to generate plausible human-like responses based on existing data rather than interpreting actual paranormal phenomena. Because of this, responses generated by AI are influenced by language patterns and expectations set by human interaction, which can skew results and lead investigators to believe they are receiving meaningful responses when, in fact, they are not.

The Problem of AI Outputs

Another significant issue is the ambiguity and interpretability of AI outputs. Generative AI lacks the ability to discern between authentic spiritual communication and random noise, human input, or algorithmic content. It may produce text that sounds coherent and convincing, but it is simply an automated response created from patterns. This opens up the potential for investigators to be misled or to attribute significance to something purely generated by the AI without any connection to the paranormal. Since AI can fabricate content, distinguishing between genuine spiritual experiences and machine-generated material becomes increasingly difficult.

Ethical Concerns

Ethical concerns also arise when using AI in spirit communication. There’s a risk that the process could trivialize or disrespect both spirits and investigators. AI-generated responses could create a false sense of communication. This may be harmful, especially to those seeking closure, comfort, or understanding through spiritual means. Relying on AI in these cases can lead to unintended consequences. This includes deep emotional harm for those who believe they are receiving messages from the other side.

Moreover, using AI for spirit communication could lead to a loss of the human element. The human element is often central to the investigation process. Paranormal investigations are subjective experiences that rely on human intuition, empathy, and personal connection. AI lacks the emotional and intuitive capacity to engage meaningfully with spirits. This means it cannot replicate the personal interactions that are often key to understanding or communicating with the paranormal.

Stolen Content

On top of these concerns, the ethical implications of AI and Generative AI extend beyond spirit communication. The technology itself raises serious issues. This is because it is built on the wholesale theft of material—writing, art, and more—in blatant violation of copyright law. The datasets used to train these AI models often include copyrighted works without permission, which not only harms creators but also degrades the credibility of the outputs. The reliance on stolen content compromises the legitimacy of any conclusions drawn from AI-generated material, effectively poisoning the well for anything that could be considered remotely credible. Additionally, the technology is environmentally problematic due to the high energy consumption required for training large AI models, contributing to carbon emissions and other environmental impacts.

Risk of Deception

Finally, AI’s ability to generate text that seems plausible increases the risk of deception. This could lead individuals to believe they are engaging with spirits when they are merely interacting with a machine. This risk of false conclusions makes using AI in spirit communication questionable and potentially damaging to the integrity of paranormal research.

How Generative AI Could Be Helpful

Generative AI could still play a valuable role in paranormal investigations, particularly when reviewing evidence after an investigation. AI can help analyze large amounts of audio, video, or photographic data more efficiently than humans. It can spot patterns or anomalies that may otherwise go unnoticed. Also, it can be trained to flag potential EVP recordings or visual distortions for further investigation. This means streamlining the review process and making it easier for investigators to focus on key findings. In this way, AI serves as a useful tool for enhancing evidence review. This allows human investigators to dig deeper into their findings with a more focused lens. However, this use case is distinct from attempting to communicate directly with spirits. As of now, the limitations and ethical concerns remain significant.

The Problem of Absolute Certainty in the Paranormal

Alex Matsuo2 Comments

In the world of paranormal investigation, enthusiasts and professionals are drawn by the mystique of the unknown. Exploring haunted locations, analyzing mysterious penomena, and attempting to uncover evidence of the supernatural can be both exciting and intellectually stimulating. However, amidst the excitement, there lies a significant pitfall: the temptation to embrace absolutes in our analysis.

What’s the Problem?

Absolutes, like declaring with unwavering certainty that a location is haunted or that a particular phenomenon is undeniably paranormal, can lead investigators down a problematic path. While confidence in one’s findings is crucial, it’s essential to recognize the limitations of our understanding and the complexities inherent in the paranormal realm. The opposite is also an issue, especially when a plausible logical explanation has surfaced, and the debunked fixates on the one explainable possibility instead of exploring other ways to debunk.

One of the primary issues with embracing absolutes in paranormal investigation is the lack of concrete scientific evidence. Unlike traditional scientific disciplines where hypotheses can be rigorously tested and validated through controlled experiments, the paranormal often defies such methodologies. Phenomena are frequently subjective, fleeting, and difficult to replicate under controlled conditions, making it challenging to establish definitive conclusions. The ability to recreate paranormal experiences continues to be the tough nut to crack, so to speak.

Seeking Alternatives

Plus, human perception and psychology play significant roles in shaping our experiences of the paranormal. Our brains are wired to seek patterns and meaning in the world around us, often leading to the misinterpretation of natural phenomena as supernatural. Optical illusions, auditory hallucinations, and environmental factors can all contribute to false perceptions of paranormal activity, further complicating the investigative process. Many in the ghost hunting field are still unfamiliar with the various forms of pareidolia, especially visual, auditory, and tactile.

In the quest for certainty, investigators may also fall victim to confirmation bias—the tendency to interpret evidence in a way that confirms preexisting beliefs or hypotheses. This bias can lead to the cherry-picking of data and the dismissal of alternative explanations, ultimately hindering the objective evaluation of paranormal claims.

Furthermore, the paranormal field is rife with pseudoscience, misinformation, and outright fraud. Without rigorous skepticism and critical thinking, investigators risk being misled by unscrupulous individuals peddling sensationalized stories or dubious evidence. Embracing absolutes without robust evidence only serves to undermine the credibility of paranormal research as a whole.

How to Avoid the Absolute Certainty

So, what can investigators do to navigate these pitfalls?

First and foremost, humility is key. Recognize that the paranormal is inherently uncertain and that definitive answers may remain elusive. Approach investigations with an open mind, acknowledging the possibility of natural explanations for purported phenomena.

Secondly, employ a skeptical mindset. This doesn’t mean you have to become a skeptic. Instead, think like a skeptic. Question assumptions, scrutinize evidence rigorously, and remain vigilant against confirmation bias. Consider alternative explanations for observed phenomena and seek out corroborating evidence from multiple sources.

Thirdly, embrace collaboration and peer review. Engage with fellow investigators, share findings openly, and subject your conclusions to scrutiny from others in the field. Constructive criticism and diverse perspectives can help refine your methodology and enhance the credibility of your research.

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, while the temptation to embrace absolutes in paranormal investigation may be strong, it’s essential to exercise caution and humility in our pursuit of the unknown. By acknowledging the inherent uncertainties, embracing skepticism, and fostering collaboration, we can elevate the standards of paranormal research and approach the mysteries of the unseen with integrity and perhaps, credibility.

Do You See Ghosts? You Might Be Losing Your Eyesight

Alex Matsuo2 Comments

It’s the middle of the night, and you’re lying in bed, stressing out about the next workday with looming deadlines and an overbearing boss. As you attempt to sleep, you open your eyes in the darkness of your bedroom, and that’s when you see it.

You observe a disfigured shape in the corner, staring back at you. But that’s not all; the shape resembles a woman dressed in Victorian clothing, and her face is disfigured. The sight of this entity frightens you, and you move back as fast as you can. As you do so, the disturbing figure glides towards you and just stares at you.

Two possibilities might explain what’s happening. One, you’re being haunted by the Victorian woman.

Two, you might be in the early stages of losing your eyesight.

What is Charles Bonnet Syndrome?

The scenario described above is one of the common scenarios experienced by people who suffer from Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS). It is a condition that is associated with visual hallucinations that occur during sight loss. What stands out the most with this condition is that the people who suffer from these hallucinations are mentally sound. CBS has also been called “phantom vision” or “ghost vision” as experiences have been recorded throughout time.

The Syndrome was first studied in 1760 by Swiss scientist Charles Bonnet (BON-ay). He began to study this occurrence when his grandfather started experiencing visual hallucinations after he developed cataracts. The hallucinations included visions of people, carriages, birds, and buildings, which could only be seen by his grandfather. These visions were spontaneous and were seen in what was left of his eyesight.

Bonnet also noticed that his grandfather was mentally sound and was not experiencing any symptoms associated with mental illnesses.

Some people have reported seeing disembodied gargoyle heads with Charles Bonnet Syndrome.

Types of Hallucinations

Hallucinations will vary depending on the person, their medical condition, and their stress levels. Some people may experience flashes of light while others may experience color changes. Others may experience all different types of hallucinations, including the frightening images of ghosts. Some people have seen figures dressed in period clothing and moving as if they were gliding across the floor. Missing body parts like hands, arms, or even faces are common occurrences. These visions will also be in great detail, even for people with vision that is blurry.

Those with CBS have also seen incredible images like a double-decker bus going through their living room, or people sitting on their couch, kitchen table, bed, etc. They have also seen surfaces covered in patterns like tiles or bricks, even bottles, hats, or dancing children, and the visions can last from several seconds to several hours. What is consistent is that these visions appear and vanish abruptly. One of the most frightening hallucinations include floating, disembodied faces that squirm during random times. These faces have wide eyes that don’t blink, plus prominent teeth and features like a gargoyle.

Experts in CBS believe that increased stress levels can contribute to the manifestation of more negative images. The condition also seems to be more common among people who live alone with limited social interaction.

Why Does This Happen?

One of the most common causes of CBS is macular degeneration, which is a disease that causes certain light-sending cells in the retina to malfunction and cause a blindspot in the center of a person’s vision. Glaucoma and cataracts are also commonly associated with CBS.

As the eyes lose their ability to see, the brain will attempt to “fill in the blanks” for the missing information. It is the brain compensating for what the eyes could no longer see and is trying to help the person navigate through their surroundings. CBS has been compared to phantom limb syndrome after an amputation has taken place.

How Common is Charles Bonnet Syndrome?

A study conducted by Dr. M.L. Jackson of the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and Dr. Joseph Ferencz of the Harvard Department of Ophthalmology and the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, found that Charles Bonnet Syndrome affects approximately 10% to 38% of people with visual impairments.

One of the main reasons for the vast range is because not everyone who suffers from CBS reports it to their doctor. Other factors include differences in definitions as well as historical record-keeping of the condition and the symptom-specific context that’s taken into consideration.

Does Charles Bonnet Syndrome Explain All Paranormal Phenomena?

After learning about this condition, it may be easy to assume that Charles Bonnet Syndrome explains all paranormal phenomena. That’s not the case. The condition has been studied by scientists and skeptics alike and as people have learned more about CBS, it’s very symptom specific depending on the type of person. 

For example, CBS wouldn’t explain why people would encounter the same type of phenomenon at a haunted location. Also, CBS wouldn’t explain other experiences like sight, smell, or touch. But just because CBS doesn’t explain all paranormal experiences, it doesn’t mean it should be disregarded or forgotten. It is definitely something to look into and discuss with your doctor if you believe.

The Importance of Sharing Experiences

Patients are often unwilling to share their experiences with their doctor, let alone with others, because they fear they will be judged as mentally incompetent. Therefore, they don’t say anything and end up suffering in silence. Sharing experiences is incredibly important for the person going through this because it will help them get the support they need. Not only that, but it will also help doctors and other members of the scientific community gather information and data on the condition. As we know research and data collection is critical to learn more about the issue as well as move forward towards preventative treatment and a possible cure.

When people with CBS see hallucinations, they often suffer in silence/

Closing Thoughts

Robert Lanza said in his book, Biocentrism, that the world only exists because we are looking at it. What we see is a reality that is created in our heads, our consciousness. If humans weren’t there to observe the world, it would be nothing.

As people with CBS navigate through their lives seeing visions of people, objects, animals, etc, that is their reality as they know it. It only exists because they see it.

Could we say the same thing for ghosts?

Sources: 

The Ghost Who Haunted The Site of The Exorcist House

Alex Matsuo1 Comment

While the house that was used for “The Exorcist” may not be haunted, the land was host to Prospect Cottage, the site of a fascinating ghost story involving one of the most famous female authors of the 19th century.

When “The Exorcist” was released in 1973, it took the world by storm. The story of a young girl named Regan becoming possessed by the demon Pazuzu and the battle for her soul, both captivated and terrified audiences. Thus, the filming locations in Georgetown in Washington, D.C., became landmarks in their own right. Since “The Exorcist: Believer” is coming out in October 2023, let’s take a look at the haunting that took place on the land where the Exorcist House sits now.

While the infamous Exorcist Steps and House aren’t known to be haunted, it doesn’t stop tourists from stopping to take a picture of the cinematic landmarks. If you go up the Steps, you can easily see the Exorcist House to your left. Please note that the Exorcist House is privately owned (I can’t stress this enough), so be sure to enjoy the house from a distance and don’t walk onto the property. The House was used for the exterior shots for the movie. People often recreate the iconic movie poster with Father Merrin standing in front of the House at night in an eerie fog. I’ve heard the owners are welcoming, but take that information with a grain of salt.

Source for Both Photos: Alex Matsuo (recreating the final scene from “The Exorcist” on the right)

But what many people don’t know is that the location of the house was once the location of Prospect Cottage, owned by Emma Dorothy Eliza Nevitte (E.D.E.N.) Southworth. What also isn’t well known is that Prospect Cottage was the site of several ghostly sightings before it was eventually torn down in the 1940s. All we have are a few newspaper articles from the early 1900s to tell us the story.

Who was E.D.E.N. Southworth?

Source: womenhistoryblog.com

E.D.E.N. Southworth was born as Emma Nevitte on December 26th, 1819 in Washington, D.C., in a house developed by George Washington. She wrote over 60 novels in her career, often featuring heroines who went against societal norms of the Victorian era. She was also a friend and contemporary of Harriet Beecher Stowe. E.D.E.N. was one of the most popular novelists of her time. She was also an avid supporter of women’s rights and social change.

At the deathbed request of her father, Emma was rechristened as Emma Dorothy Eliza Nevitte, (E.D.E.N.). After her father’s death in 1824, her mother remarried to a school teacher named Joshua L. Henshaw. E.D.E.N. and her step-father did not get along. She described herself as a dark wild-eyed elf, as well as being shy. After she completed her secondary education at the age of 15, E.D.E.N. became a schoolteacher at 16. 

E.D.E.N. got married at 21 in 1840 to an inventor named Frederick H. Southworth from New York and the couple moved to Wisconsin. The couple was living on the frontier in a log cabin and E.D.E.N. despised life. She had two children with Frederick, a son and a daughter. In 1844, E.D.E.N. returned to DC without Frederick, who abandoned his family in search of gold in South America. 

Now a single mother, E.D.E.N. started teaching at a measly $250 per year. To supplement her income, she started writing to support herself and her children. She submitted stories to magazines, and her writing was very well-received. The editor of the National Era contracted her first novel. She eventually became one of the highest paid authors of her day with an annual salary of $10,000. She was able to step back from teaching and write full time.

A New Home and Mysterious Voice

Source: Woman’s Record, 1855

Around 1853 to the 1860s (exact date is unknown), E.D.E.N. moved into Prospect Cottage at 36th Street and Prospect, where The Exorcist Steps and House sits today. It is unknown when Prospect Cottage was built. But we do know it was formerly owned by a former French minister. The house had a Carpenter Gothic design, which was popular at the time.

The House closely resembled a gingerbread house with icicle-like decoration along the roof. E.D.E.N. would live in this house for the majority of the Civil War. Here is a newspaper clipping describing Prospect Cottage in 1899.

E.D.E.N. was an avid supporter of the Union. Since her house was located along the Potomac River, she could see the Confederate border from her house. She also had a front row seat to Lincoln’s second inauguration and worked at Seminary Hospital. E.D.E.N. also lets the hospital use her house to help as many as 27 soldiers to recover from their wounds at one point.

According to legend, after the second battle of Bull Run, all of the residents of Georgetown were terrified of the Confederates coming in. Knowing her home would be one of the first stops for the Confederacy, E.D.E.N. barricaded herself in her house. As she stood by the door, she said, “There’s only 3 of us here, what are we going to do if the Confederates come?” A voice in the darkness replied, “There are 4 of you here and you will be fine.” E.D.E.N., her children, and the house survived and they were indeed fine.

Source: Dig DC

A Long & Accomplished Life

Towards the end of E.D.E.N.’s life, the Union Station (now the Car Barn) was built next door, and the Exorcist Steps were constructed while she was alive. E.D.E.N. passed away in 1899 in Prospect Cottage and was buried in Oak Hill Cemetery, just up the hill. Her son, Richard, inherited the house, and lived there until he passed away a year later. E.D.E.N.’s daughter, Charlotte, then inherited the house, but she wasn’t interested in keeping the house, so she sells it. The house gets bought and sold a few times.

Source: Streets of Washington Flickr

From Home to Ice Cream

Prospect Cottage then became an ice cream parlor. The ice cream parlor was in the sitting room and the drawing room became a cafe. They sold ice cream, lunches, live bait, cigars, and tobacco. There was even a classic Coca-Cola sign. It became a popular spot for people to sit and wait for the street cars that were passing through Georgetown. It was such a popular spot and pretty much a tourist trap because E.D.E.N.’s legacy was still well known. People would rip off the wood as souvenirs. They would also catch the bugs so they could tell people it was from E.D.E.N. Southworth’s house. 

Here’s a snippet from an article in The Washington Post, dated 1905:

The text reads: “Now the sitting-room that Mrs. Southworth planned is an ice cream parlor, and the handsome, old drawing-room serves as a cafe. On the verandas visitors sit and chat as they wait for the [street]cars. Their talk is of Mrs. Southworth, and it is claimed that they cut great splinters out of the porch and side of the house, and even capture the bugs and grasshoppers in the yard for souvenirs. Furthermore, they pull up the weeds by the roots and carry them off, happy in their ill-gotten spoils.”

The house was eventually bought by the National League of American Pen Women in 1928. They hoped to turn it into a museum for E.D.E.N. before it was torn down in 1942. The house that sits there today, The Exorcist House, was built in 1950.

The Ghost of E.D.E.N.

Source: Georgetown Metropolitan

It seems that E.D.E.N. Southworth still visited Prospect Cottage after she passed away, showing that not even death could hold her back from her home. 

There’s one particular story from the same 1905 Washington Post article, which was published about six years after she died, about an Italian grocer who set up his cart in front of Prospect Cottage one day. As he set up and got ready for the day, E.D.E.N. came out of the garden to chat with him. Since the grocer was a local, he knew that E.D.E.N. had passed several years ago. He didn’t even wait to see what she had to say. He ran and left his cart and all of his stuff in front of the house. 

During the days as an ice cream parlor, E.D.E.N. would frequently appear to talk to people inside Prospect Cottage. People passing by Prospect Cottage claimed that E.D.E.N. would be seen walking around edges of the veranda, wringing her hands.

The author of that article also ran into a boy. The boy tells them that he had seen E.D.E.N. in the window at night, looking out onto the street below.

Final Thoughts

Source: DC Public Library

It seems that once Prospect Cottage was torn down, the ghostly sightings of E.D.E.N. Southworth disappeared completely. This begs the question; did E.D.E.N. decide to move on after her home was razed, or were witnesses experiencing a residual haunting? Since people reported that she was having conversations with them, I’m leaning towards E.D.E.N. was enjoying the company in her home.

The haunting of Prospect Cottage is a hidden gem of Georgetown History. Sadly, it has been eclipsed by “The Exorcist” and the demonic spookiness that surrounds it. This is certainly not a negative haunting. This story is a delightful tale to show that not all ghosts are scary or evil. Sometimes it’s a famous author stopping by her house to have a chat with the new inhabitants.

How lovely would it be to have a chat over ice cream with the ghost of one of the most prolific authors of the 19th century?

Sources

https://www.librarycompany.org/women/portraits/southworth.htm

http://utc.iath.virginia.edu/sentimnt/southworthhp.html 

http://www.streetsofwashington.com/2012/01/prolific-mrs-eden-southworth-and-her.html 

Lost Georgetown: E.D.E.N Southworth’s Cottage

https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-baltimore-sun-prospect-cottage-artic/131390815/

https://www.womenhistoryblog.com/2012/08/e-d-e-n-southworth.html

https://digital.library.sc.edu/collections/e-d-e-n-southworth-collection/

Photos of Lost Southworth Cottage in Georgetown

Little Voices from Beyond: How to Speak with the Ghosts of Children

Alex Matsuo

In the paranormal investigation world, it is inevitable that we will run into a location where there are reports of spirits of children. While this can be unsettling to think about, because a life cut short is always tragic, it is a truth we have to face at times. Nothing reminds us more of our mortality than to encounter a life that didn’t have a chance to live.

The best way to communicate with child spirits is to treat them the same way you would when they were alive. However, this can be challenging for people who don’t encounter children in their daily lives or don’t work with children.

What Makes Me Qualified to Speak on This?

I worked in childhood and adolescent education for years. I started my interaction with kids helping in the church nursery in high school. In college, I spent my summers as a unit leader camp counselor for the YMCA. After graduate school, I spent my teaching career as a teaching artist for the local school district teaching theatre to kindergarten through 5th grade. In the summers, I was teaching reading skills from preschool through high school. Then, I was a preschool teacher for three years. I’ve interacted with nearly every age group leading up to adulthood before I eventually left the education field for the corporate life. But I’ve taken what I’ve learned and applied it to the paranormal field.

Disclaimer: These are just my suggestions based on my background as a former teacher and experience as a paranormal investigator. These tips aren’t the “only way” to talk to the spirits of kids.

First Things First: They’re Not Demons

Let’s get the obvious out of the way; 99% of the time, the ghosts of children are not demons. This is a very Christian-centric belief in the paranormal that often takes over the field. I’ve only encountered a few spirits that tried to come across as a child. But even so, it’s only been maybe twice in the 20 years I’ve been investigating. Not everyone in the field believes in the idea of heaven or hell. Don’t treat these kids like they’re evil entities trying to take your soul.

Get on Their Level

If you know the location is reported to be haunted by a small child, avoid standing if you can. Try to sit in a chair, or even on the floor, and get on the child’s level to communicate. Even for living children, getting on their level to communicate and talk to them is a more effective way to gain their trust so the child doesn’t feel intimidated by you. Standing over a child and asking questions could very well make them feel nervous around you and possibly remind them of someone who wasn’t kind to them when they were alive.

Be Mindful of the Tone of Your Voice

Some kids appreciate big, boisterous voices. If you’re a parent or a teacher, that voice may work in your favor in a positive manner. But sometimes, you may run into a child spirit that has been traumatized by an adult, and a loud voice may very well upset them and inhibit them from communicating. When I first initiate communication, I try to have a more neutral tone and volume to my voice in the beginning. This gives me the opportunity to gauge the comfort level of the child spirit and see how much they’re willing to communicate, their personality, and how outgoing they are.

Know How to Talk to Different Age Groups

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gone on an investigation that’s reported to be haunted by a small child, and then it’s apparent that the young person we’re talking to is a pre-teen or older. Have an understanding of communication styles of different age groups. You don’t want to talk to a 10-year old the same way you would talk to a 5-year old. One can speculate that even in the afterlife, that spirit will reflect their age and development stage they were in upon passing.

Keep an Open Mind

The paranormal investigation practice isn’t an exact science, and we have a long way to go. This means people can make assumptions and mistakes sometimes. The way that folklore, myths, and legends can grow and evolve can quickly change the origin story for many spirits. This means that the 5-year old girl that haunts the old barn may not actually be a 5-year old girl, but instead, a 13-year old boy. Or, even an old man! Keep an open mind and don’t pigeonhole yourself into insisting on communicating with a spirit that may or may not be there.

Use Trigger Objects

If you know the location is haunted by children, bring trigger objects! This means toys, dolls, puzzles, music, whatever gets someone engaged. When trying to engage with children, people will bring different activities to stimulate that child’s mind. Just talking to people with nothing to entertain them could get bored rather quickly. Just as living children can have short attention spans, one can theorize that this is still the case in the afterlife. Depending on what you believe when it comes to evolving spirits long-term, it never hurts to try different trigger objects.

Talk About Things They Enjoy

This can apply to teenagers and adults as well. You can never go wrong talking about things that a spirit enjoys, whether it was something they enjoyed while alive, or still enjoying during their afterlife. Just like the trigger objects, talking about things like foods, their favorite colors, books, music, and depending on time period; movies and television.

Avoid Talking About Traumatic Topics

Children can sense blood in the water if you’re not comfortable talking to them, or if you have something to hide. It’s like they have that extra sense. So, when a child spirit is comfortable communicating with me, I treasure that moment and try to make the interaction as positive as I can. Talking about trauma for the sake of sparking communication isn’t okay. When you think about the living, majority of society doesn’t candidly talk to a child about their trauma, their abuser, etc. when they first meet them. Even experts in pediatric psychiatry will engage in different modes of play and other engagement methods before diving straight into trauma. As paranormal investigators, we are not that spirit’s psychologist, counselor, etc. and when we bring up a child’s abuser and just yelling things in empty rooms, it causes more harm than good. Now, if they volunteer the information themselves, it means that you’ve established enough trust with them to talk about more difficult topics.

They’re Not There to Perform

While spirit communication can be both disturbing and exciting, especially for content creation, these spirits are not there to perform for us. They’re not there to help us create spooky content. They are existing in their (hopefully) happy afterlife and doing their thing. Every time I encounter (what I believe is) spirit communication, I feel exceptionally honored. I feel even more special when it’s a child.

Final Thoughts

None of these tips are a guarantee that you will have the chance to talk with ghost children, or even that they’ll be interested in talking to you. But in a field where trauma-based ghost hunting is becoming the norm and now very popular, this is an alternative approach to paranormal investigations that doesn’t cause additional harm. At the end of the day, ghost hunting and paranormal investigating is talking to people, or at the very least, talking with something we believe is conscious and intelligent. Just as we expect spirits to engage with us respectfully, we should do the same when we enter these buildings and try to talk to those inhabiting it. If you have the chance to engage with the spirit of a child, take that experience as a gift and have a positive and meaningful interaction.

Happy investigating!

The Importance of Identity in the Paranormal

Alex Matsuo1 Comment

Every human you encounter has their own life story, wishes, loves, desires, dislikes, the whole bit. Every human you meet has had certain life experiences that have shaped them into who they are up to that moment you meet them. They each have their own identity.

Psychology Today defines identity as “encompasses the memories, experiences, relationships, and values that create one’s sense of self. This amalgamation creates a steady sense of who one is over time, even as new facets are developed and incorporated into one’s identity.”

And yet, there’s a common ideology in many paranormal circles that a spirit’s (or ghost’s) identity isn’t relevant as soon as their physical body ceases to live.

Let’s go off with the idea that spirits exist and they’re the remaining consciousness of dead people (sorry, skeptics…) to explore how identity plays a role in paranormal investigations and why it’s important for both the living and the dead.

Why Does Identity Matter?

I had already written the initial draft of this blog a few weeks ago and let it stew for a bit. During that stewing time, I posted a TikTok video lamenting about how cool it would be if the mainstream paranormal television shows had more representation when it comes to diversity in body types, ethnicity, sexuality, and the such. As people started to respond, I was quite surprised over the vitriolic comments from people.

According to Critical Media Project,

  • Identity is a socially and historically constructed concept. We learn about our own identity and the identity of others through interactions with family, peers, organizations, institutions, media and other connections we make in our everyday life.
  • Key facets of identity—like gender, social class, age, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, religion, age and disability—play significant roles in determining how we understand and experience the world, as well as shaping the types of opportunities and challenges we face.
  • Social and cultural identity is inextricably linked to issues of power, value systems, and ideology.
  • The media uses representations—images, words, and characters or personae—to convey specific ideas and values related to culture and identity in society.

As you can see, identity matters because it is who we are, who we interact with, and how society sees us. We experience the world based on our identity and how the world identifies us.

Most Common Pushback When Seeking Representation

Over the last few years, I’ve noticed this common saying that’s been used as pushback when I write about and advocate for more representation in the field.

It’s a variation of “Ghosts/Spirits don’t care if you’re black, white, gay, straight, Christian, female, male, etc.”

Personally, from looking at and researching different perspectives of investigators and mediums, one could argue that spirits do care about these things. They care because these things helped shaped their identity, which resulted in specifics experiences throughout many different chapters of their life. 

No two people will have a universal experience, especially lived experiences that include encountering racism, sexism, bigotry, and the like.

This pushback could be coming from a variety of angles. For one, I’ve noticed that the people who’ve said this the most often come from a mindset where they don’t see gender, race, sexuality, etc. This comes from a privileged mindset because they more than likely have not experienced oppression because of their identity.

Why Acknowledge Identity No Matter What

But this is a problematic mindset when approaching paranormal investigations, especially if one is trying to make a connection with a spirit for the purposes of communication. If they don’t acknowledge the spirit for what they are, where they come from, and what their life experiences were, then why are they there?

I often find that interacting with people who don’t care about the things that make me who I am to be an extremely shallow experience. How deep can one actually get if you don’t acknowledge the traits that make up that person’s identity?

Spirits aren’t blank slates that stop caring about the things that make them who they are. From personal experience and talking with other investigators, they still care about their identity as well as our own.

Also, identity not only affects the makeup of the person, but it also impacts the way that the person interacts with different social groups. The acknowledgement of identity isn’t an act of exclusion. On the contrary, it’s an act of inclusion and acceptance.

The Nature of Collecting Data vs. Experiencing

Even if one is going into a haunted location to document and collect data, there is still a whole other side of the coin; there’s usually some sort of interaction that happens in some aspect in an investigation. Usually this is in the form of the investigator trying to start a conversation. 

While yes there have been reports of phenomena occurring while no one was trying to actively engage them, if we look at the context of those incidents, usually there was a topic being discussed that resonated with the spirit.

What resonates with spirits is directly connected to their identity. Maybe it resonates because it’s a reflection of how they experienced the world when they were alive. Or could also remind the spirit of what life was like before they passed away.

It doesn’t even need to be a deep conversation about trauma. It could be something as similar as a shared interest like a favorite book, song, or movie. More paranormal investigators could be asking questions in relationship to identity as opposed to asking questions based in trauma. The field seems to be heading in that direction as more people take on a more compassionate approach to paranormal investigating.

The Benefits of Acknowledging Identity

For many paranormal investigators, they got into the field because they either wanted to have a paranormal experience or get documentation of one. It’s not unheard of for an investigator to be in this field to prove the existence of the afterlife as well. When I started Queer Ghost Hunters on YouTube, I started noticing that the investigators would share their own backgrounds and their stories to show the spirits that they were safe to talk to and they were creating a safe space where the spirit can simply exist.

When the paranormal investigator shares their experiences and takes ownership of their identity, it’s beneficial not only for the spirits, but also their fellow investigators. Sharing similar lived experiences based on identity can help build trust and create a connection between the living and the dead that could potentially create more meaningful interactions.

Those who have experienced oppression because of their identity tend to veer towards the importance of it and they are eager to acknowledge and validate that spirit’s identity. They see the importance of acknowledging a spirit’s identity, whether that is their gender, race, or sexuality. Depending on the context of the time period for that spirit, they may have had their life end because of their identity.

Final Thoughts

Let’s return to the pushback mentioned earlier, “Ghosts/Spirits don’t care if you’re black, white, gay, straight, Christian, female, male, etc.”

The big question would be if the people saying this care about their own identity right now? Do they care about the identity of others? If the former is yes, and the latter is no, then there’s a lesson in compassion and empathy that still needs to be learned by these individuals. When I hear someone say that their faith is important to them, I point out that their faith is an integral part of their identity. If they are married, their spouse is an important part of their identity. Same if they have children, friends from different social circles, it’s all important.

So when someone says that spirits wouldn’t care about identity, I simply say that if the living care, then certainly the dead do as well.

Finally, these concepts aren’t just for spirits. These are critical things to think about as we navigate social relationships within the paranormal community. Acknowledging identity in the field is a step towards representation in the field, and it can help create that inclusive space where everyone can truly feel welcome.

Sources:

Why Identity Matters

https://www.facinghistory.org/resource-library/why-identity-matters

https://www.thephilosopher1923.org/post/why-do-social-identities-matter

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/identity

https://www.journalofdemocracy.org/articles/why-national-identity-matters/

How to Not Traumatize Ghosts

Alex Matsuo1 Comment

For decades, it has been typical to see paranormal investigators walk into a haunted location and immediately start provoking and saying things that could be extremely traumatizing to not only spirits and ghosts, but also the living. Is it really necessary to do this in order to get a response during a paranormal investigation? What if this the best way to try to communicate with spirits? Is there another way to go about it?

Personal Experience

I had a TikTok recently that went viral where I shared a (very) short version of the One Bed Over: A Hospital Haunting story. This was the incident of the spirit attachment I dealt with after my car accident on New Year’s Eve 2005. I shared my story with the TV show “Haunted Hospitals” and wrote the book. Telling this story became a healing experience for me, and overall, I’m grateful for the opportunities I had to share it.

Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of interviews on different podcasts and radio shows about the story. But in the past few months, I found myself experiencing more PTSD incidents since telling the story more frequently. Nightmares, panic attacks, flashbacks, they were all coming back with a vengeance.

How Do the Spirits Feel?

Why do I bring this up? Because talking about this traumatic chapter in my life just a few times per month has really sparked some responses in my body and soul that’s made me identify the need to step back. 

Yet, what about the ghosts that we try to connect with in haunted locations? Especially locations where there was a lot of trauma and negative events in their lives? There’s a group of strangers coming in and asking about one of the worst days of their lives. Then we expect the spirits to pour out their heart and souls to us, a bunch of strangers, without building rapport or trust. And some of these places see traffic on a daily basis.

Besides a location not being haunted, perhaps this might be a reason that paranormal investigators are met with silence? Or worse, they end up being physically assaulted. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve encountered this on the field. But then, a simple subject change will change the activity levels towards a more positive environment. That simple subject change is compassion and empathy.

Example: The USS North Carolina

In 2018, I did my first paranormal investigation at the Battleship North Carolina (also known as the USS North Carolina). I had been investigating for quite a while up until this point. I wanted to dive deeper into the hauntings of this location besides traditional ghost hunting. Taking a page from John Sabol’s Ghost Excavation method, I had my team members (all female identifying) dress in period clothing. Justifying our presence on the ship would be a bit challenging. This is because civilian women on the ship wasn’t necessarily the norm back in the Battleship’s prime.

So we took on a more flirtatious approach as women looking for sailors to take us out on a night on the town. This included contextual flirting, dancing, and all sorts of shenanigans from the 1940s. Yet, when we tried to steer the conversation towards World War II, and more specifically, Pearl Harbor, we were met with absolute silence. But if we brought up drinks and dancing, our equipment would respond and we got more activity on our recording equipment. Simply put, they weren’t interested in talking to us about a tough topic. To be fair, most of the World War II vets I knew (especially my grandpa) didn’t talk about the war, especially with women.

Example: Trivette Clinic

If you’ve read my book, The Hamptonville Hauntings, then you’ve already read this story in more detail. Without going too deep into the history and research rabbit hole, the Trivette Clinic opened in 1932 in Hamptonville, North Carolina as a small town clinic. This was a place where tonsils were taken out and babies were born. After Dr. William Trivette died in 1938, the Clinic was converted into a supper club and detox center, then a nursing home, and finally, a private residence. While not a lot of “horrifying trauma” happened at the Clinic, one could argue that surgery and childbirth is a form of trauma on its own. 

But one of the most remarkable experiences I had at the Trivette Clinic didn’t involve talking about medical procedures at all. It was playing music. Dr. Trivette’s wife Gwendolyn was a singer who had a love for opera. I’ve always been extremely drawn to her for various reasons, and one night, with two of my team members, a series of events led me to believe she was with us. Thinking about her love of opera, I was inspired to use music as a trigger object. Trying to think of popular operas back in Gwendolyn’s time, I defaulted to “Musetta’s Waltz” from the opera, La Boheme. 

Reaction to the Music

As the music started playing from my phone, every device we had in the basement started going off. The lights became brighter when the music swelled in intensity, and the lights dimmed during the quieter moments. It was like there was a reaction in the environment to the music. In my head, I pictured Gwendolyn singing to the music. Needless to say, it was an emotional experience.

Ever the debunker, I decided to play Van Halen’s “Jump” to see if our equipment would react the same way. None of the equipment went off, even when I grabbed my phone and walked around the space. I played a few more songs and still, nothing. No reaction like that.

Example: Melissa Elliott at the Cabin on 360

One of the darker places I’ve been to is the Elliott House next door to the Cabin on 360. The locations are owned by the same person, and sit just feet away from each other. It should be noted that I don’t call the Elliott House dark because of demonic entities or anything like that. It’s because it was the site of a brutal murder. If you want to learn more about the Elliott House, and Melissa Elliott, here’s some more information.

Melissa Carol Elliott was just 12 years old when she was raped and murdered by her half-brother in 1979. Just being in the house and knowing what happened within its walls is enough to give me bad feelings about the place. Knowing this, it made it hard to remove my bias. Also, it’s been said that there is a dark entity in the house.

When my team and I investigated the house, we went into Melissa’s bedroom and set up a few recording devices. I wanted to make sure to focus on things that a pre-teen girl would have liked or been interested in during the late 1970s. If Melissa was still a present entity in the house, I’m pretty sure the last thing she would want to talk about is the end of her life and likely the worst day of her life. But also, avoiding the traumatic topic could give us an opportunity to communicate with other spirits in the house, if there were any.

Shifting Gears

Immediately, I noticed that there wasn’t much response when my other two male members were asking questions. Keeping the nature of Melissa’s death in mind, plus being a 12-year old girl, she may not be comfortable around older males. Pulling out the Osmonds, David Cassidy, and other pop culture icons, it seemed we were getting some responses on our equipment. 

There was a moment where it looked like there was light shining on me for a brief second. I thought one of my team members shined their flashlight on me. My team member thought my Fitbit went off. The only thing that made me hesitant about declaring it my Fitbit was that my little watch will stay illuminated for several seconds, not a brief moment. It wasn’t headlights from the outside either.

Why Avoid Using Trauma

There’s a multitude of reasons to avoid using trauma in spirit communication. To be fully candid, using trauma as the first tactic to get a response is a cheap tactic. I even find skeptics using trauma to also try to elicit a response, which is puzzling. It’s like, “I don’t believe you exist but I’m going to exploit your trauma anyway.” Some of the best skeptics who investigate still respect the space and the people who once lived there.

By avoiding the use of trauma, you earn trust not only with the potential spirit you’re trying to communicate with, but also with the group in your company. I think we often forget that if we use trauma to elicit a response, we risk upsetting our fellow investigators who may have a personal connection with similar trauma. 

When we use trauma, it’s often a very generic approach with broad questions that don’t go any deeper. Also, using trauma right away forces the investigator to go in with a certain bias. They may assume that the house being haunted is haunted by the spirits tied to specific history and so they laser point on that traumatic event. Meanwhile, they miss out on meaningful communication with an entity that’s either not tied to that specific history, or they don’t want to talk about it.

So What Should We Talk About?

For the socially awkward like myself, coming up with topics to talk about with spirits can be tricky. I can’t even do small talk with the living so how can I talk to the dead? I’ve learned a lot about social interactions from paranormal investigating, especially from the examples above.

It also should be said that not every topic will be “trauma free” for everyone. Like, talking about someone’s child to one person may cause heartache and grief to someone else who may have lost children or weren’t able to have their own.

Here’s some things to talk to ghosts/spirits about:

  1. What brings them joy
  2. Their daily lives
  3. What the space looks like to them
  4. Who is around them at that moment
  5. Favorite foods and treats
  6. Entertainment they may have liked (books, music, movies, television)
  7. Recipes
  8. Games

Here are a few more topics to explore, but may have trauma associated with them:

  1. Religion (favorite hymns, Bible verses, etc.)
  2. Were they in love?
  3. Did they have children?

In reality, any point mentioned could bring up trauma. But in this case, the intention is different. Without diving too deep into intent vs. impact, there is a difference between going into a space with the intention of using trauma to provoke a spirit and trying to talk a spirit about something that may have made them happy and you upset them by accident.

This list is just a starting point. What’s great about this list is that you can keep it generic enough to help you pinpoint the historical and societal context of the entity you’re talking to. I like to call this method, “Start Big, Go Small.” Start with a broader topic, and use the responses to get more granular to help pinpoint the person you’re talking to and where they’re from.

Final Thoughts

We don’t need to provoke or say upsetting things during a paranormal investigation in order to get a response. If anything, we could get even better data and evidence by not going the route of provocation.

I see a shift happening in the paranormal investigation community where we are veering away from using trauma as a talking point. This makes me very optimistic for the future of the paranormal. Unfortunately, paranormal media has yet to catch up. It continues to default to trauma as a way to get a response from spirits. Not all television shows are like this (shout out to “Kindred Spirits”), but most of them do this. It’s not terribly surprising since the focus of most TV shows is to get that spooky evidence and then move on to the next location, leaving a mess of shattered feelings and trauma behind.