This upcoming article will discuss the Ouija board. The name is trademarked by Hasbro, a famous toy maker. This much discussed and maligned 'toy' is still sold today at toy stores across America. Is the general recommendation of most paranormal investigators--leave well enough alone--good advice? Or is it's infamous reputation all hype?
Along with other diviningg devices, it is our current advice that the uninitiated--especially children--do NOT use such devices, nor should anyone treat such things in a flippant manner.
We feel that anyone that uses such 'tools' without experience and adequate preparation, is--at least--treating the possibility of communication with the deceased in a disrespectful manner. At the worst, once may be messing with forces beyond comprehension with ramifications that may include trapping spirits who should have moved on to opening a doorway that invites antagonizing inhuman entities that exacerbate everything that is wrong with your life.
Our thoughts may be wrong and the Ouija board may be nothing more then a toy. We simply don't know which is why we are going to compile information so you can decide for yourself.
Stay tuned forwell-researched article that, although not meant to be the final say in the matter, will include experiences from users, and thoughts from people ranging from demonologists, theologins, and experts in physics.
Bobby Elgee, Lead Investigator; Sights Unseen Paranormal
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Ghost Hunters episode: November 11, 2009, New Hampshire Gothic
Ghost Hunters--the television show on the Sci Fi (Scy Fy) Channel featuring T.A.P.S. (The Atlantic Paranormal Society)--aired an episode entitled New Hampshire Gothic on November 11, 2009.
This episode featured T.A.P.S. controversial investigation of the Amos J. Blake House Museum, in Fitzwilliam, New Hampshire that is managed by the Fitzwilliam Historical Society.
Read more about the production crew's filming at the location by clicking on the following links:
Entities-r-Us
thebeyond.info
On-line Evidence of Amos J. Blake House
Sights Unseen Paranormal has intimate knowledge of the site, having investigated the museum several times. We watched the episode with interest to see if Ghost Hunters results coincide with what we know to be true regarding this location.
Links to Reviews on "New Hampshire Gothic" the Ghost Hunters episode featuring the Amos J. Blake House Museum in Fitzwilliam, NH.
http://forums.syfy.com/index.php?showtopic=2341145
http://www.realitywanted.com/newsitem/2607-ghost-hunters-season-6-new-hampshire-gothic-episode-13-recap
http://www.masslive.com/television/index.ssf/2009/11/ghost_hunters_go_new_hampshire.html
http://www.realtvaddict.com/2009/11/12/ghost-hunters-the-case-of-the-moving-pitch-fork/
Sights Unseen's Comments
The Amos J. Blake House Museum is a wonderful example of a New England historical society museum. Having been part of at least three investigations of the location I was pleased to see that TAPS results correlated with my experiences at the location, and not the exaggerated ‘evidence’ that I have read about the location in the past.
Concerning the 'evidence' that TAPS did gather, I believe that the ‘ghost cat’ could be debunked by assuming that a stray cat had recently made its way into the basement due to the advent of the cold weather. However, I can’t confirm this hypothesis and having been in the basement on multiple occasions, it appeared to be fairly secure. Still, you have to assume that this is more likely then the existence of a ghost cat.
As far as the chain moving and the pitchfork falling over, I found this suspicious. Having been in the location many times, all the furniture, etc. was placed pretty much as I remember it. One thing that I certainly don’t remember is the chain and the pitchfork. It seemed out of place to me. It appears unusual that these objects were in the location and placed as they were. I am unsure why, with many valuable artifacts around, one would stand a pitchfork on end and lean it against the wall where it could easily fall over.
In addition, considering the way a board could be stepped on in an old house, and something moves–the door latch upstairs did this earlier and Jason clearly points out that shifting boards can cause things to move–I propose that the investigators walking by could have triggered the movement by this principle. I’d have to see the footage analyzed by a physicist before I was really convinced that the event was paranormal in origin. It all just seems a little too convenient or coincidental to me. I do try very hard to debunk phenomena and believe that too often people resort to 'ghostly' explanations for phenomena with environmental causes.
Finally–and perhaps the most interesting–is the fact that the curator of the museum and the ‘volunteer’ that was interviewed are both members of a paranormal investigation team that formed after it was discovered TAPS was going to investigate the location. It was shortly after the group was formed that reports of multiple apparitions and conscious spirits haunting the location were reported and I suspect that the ‘evidence’ was highly exaggerated–or at least not thoroughly debunked–in an effort to pique TAPS interest.
Both the curator of the museum and the 'volunteer' are both former members of Sights Unseen Paranormal, but quit and formed their own group shortly after learning that TAPS was set to investigate the museum. This seems suspicious to me, especially when combined with the 'explosion' of paranormal activity reported at the location by the curator's team of paranormal investigators shortly after it was formed in the lead up to the television episode featuring the locale.
As an aside, I feel I need to address the issue of 'not-being-on-Ghost Hunters-envy' that has been suggested by certain individuals to explain my interest in the location and developments related to the recent television episode. So, to go on record, Sights Unseen Paranormal generally eschews publicity. In the last several months I have referred a television producer and two newspaper reporters to another group whom I hold in high esteem. And I, for one, have no burning desire to become a TAPS affiliate, meet Jason or Grant, nor do I generally watch the television show. Certainly I admire them for contributing to the recent explosion in interest in the paranormal, but that's really as far as it goes.
To sum up, I do firmly believe that there may be something is going on in the museum and would rate it a 2 out of 10 regarding possible paranormal activity. I’ve recorded a disembodied voice and had a cold spot sit on my shoulder while investigating the Amos J. Blake House Museum.
TAPS did do a good job debunking. For me, the smell of cat urine and a pitch fork falling over (even with the chain moving) aren’t enough for me–nor TAPS–to consider the place really haunted.
Bobby Elgee; Sights Unseen Paranormal
This episode featured T.A.P.S. controversial investigation of the Amos J. Blake House Museum, in Fitzwilliam, New Hampshire that is managed by the Fitzwilliam Historical Society.
Read more about the production crew's filming at the location by clicking on the following links:
Entities-r-Us
thebeyond.info
On-line Evidence of Amos J. Blake House
Sights Unseen Paranormal has intimate knowledge of the site, having investigated the museum several times. We watched the episode with interest to see if Ghost Hunters results coincide with what we know to be true regarding this location.
Links to Reviews on "New Hampshire Gothic" the Ghost Hunters episode featuring the Amos J. Blake House Museum in Fitzwilliam, NH.
http://forums.syfy.com/index.php?showtopic=2341145
http://www.realitywanted.com/newsitem/2607-ghost-hunters-season-6-new-hampshire-gothic-episode-13-recap
http://www.masslive.com/television/index.ssf/2009/11/ghost_hunters_go_new_hampshire.html
http://www.realtvaddict.com/2009/11/12/ghost-hunters-the-case-of-the-moving-pitch-fork/
Sights Unseen's Comments
The Amos J. Blake House Museum is a wonderful example of a New England historical society museum. Having been part of at least three investigations of the location I was pleased to see that TAPS results correlated with my experiences at the location, and not the exaggerated ‘evidence’ that I have read about the location in the past.
Concerning the 'evidence' that TAPS did gather, I believe that the ‘ghost cat’ could be debunked by assuming that a stray cat had recently made its way into the basement due to the advent of the cold weather. However, I can’t confirm this hypothesis and having been in the basement on multiple occasions, it appeared to be fairly secure. Still, you have to assume that this is more likely then the existence of a ghost cat.
As far as the chain moving and the pitchfork falling over, I found this suspicious. Having been in the location many times, all the furniture, etc. was placed pretty much as I remember it. One thing that I certainly don’t remember is the chain and the pitchfork. It seemed out of place to me. It appears unusual that these objects were in the location and placed as they were. I am unsure why, with many valuable artifacts around, one would stand a pitchfork on end and lean it against the wall where it could easily fall over.
In addition, considering the way a board could be stepped on in an old house, and something moves–the door latch upstairs did this earlier and Jason clearly points out that shifting boards can cause things to move–I propose that the investigators walking by could have triggered the movement by this principle. I’d have to see the footage analyzed by a physicist before I was really convinced that the event was paranormal in origin. It all just seems a little too convenient or coincidental to me. I do try very hard to debunk phenomena and believe that too often people resort to 'ghostly' explanations for phenomena with environmental causes.
Finally–and perhaps the most interesting–is the fact that the curator of the museum and the ‘volunteer’ that was interviewed are both members of a paranormal investigation team that formed after it was discovered TAPS was going to investigate the location. It was shortly after the group was formed that reports of multiple apparitions and conscious spirits haunting the location were reported and I suspect that the ‘evidence’ was highly exaggerated–or at least not thoroughly debunked–in an effort to pique TAPS interest.
Both the curator of the museum and the 'volunteer' are both former members of Sights Unseen Paranormal, but quit and formed their own group shortly after learning that TAPS was set to investigate the museum. This seems suspicious to me, especially when combined with the 'explosion' of paranormal activity reported at the location by the curator's team of paranormal investigators shortly after it was formed in the lead up to the television episode featuring the locale.
As an aside, I feel I need to address the issue of 'not-being-on-Ghost Hunters-envy' that has been suggested by certain individuals to explain my interest in the location and developments related to the recent television episode. So, to go on record, Sights Unseen Paranormal generally eschews publicity. In the last several months I have referred a television producer and two newspaper reporters to another group whom I hold in high esteem. And I, for one, have no burning desire to become a TAPS affiliate, meet Jason or Grant, nor do I generally watch the television show. Certainly I admire them for contributing to the recent explosion in interest in the paranormal, but that's really as far as it goes.
To sum up, I do firmly believe that there may be something is going on in the museum and would rate it a 2 out of 10 regarding possible paranormal activity. I’ve recorded a disembodied voice and had a cold spot sit on my shoulder while investigating the Amos J. Blake House Museum.
TAPS did do a good job debunking. For me, the smell of cat urine and a pitch fork falling over (even with the chain moving) aren’t enough for me–nor TAPS–to consider the place really haunted.
Bobby Elgee; Sights Unseen Paranormal
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
TAPS Visits Amos J. Blake House Museum in Fitzwilliam, NH: On-line Evidence; by Bobby Elgee
TAPS (The Atlantic Paranormal Society) investigated the Amos J. Blake House Museum in Fitzwilliam, NH on or around July 9th 2009 to film an upcoming episode of Ghost Hunters, reportedly set to air sometime in October of 2009.
Keene Sentinel Newspaper ArticleThere was some controversy generated by TAPS visit in regards to who authorized permission for filming at the location. The museums curator--who also is the founder of a ghost hunting team-- reportedly participated in the filming and had no comment specific to who provided the permission. In addition--in our opinion--'evidence' gathered at the museum has been consistently exaggerated by certain parties, partially in what we suspect was an attempt to get TAPS attention. And apparently it worked.
Here's the link to a post on the Entities-R-Us Website that summarizes the Keene Sentinel article, in addition to providing other information about TAPS visit.
http://www.entities-r-us.com/2009/08/30/taps-gets-cold-shoulder/
Here is a link to an earlier article I wrote entitled TAPS Visits Amos J. Blake Museum--that was published on The Beyond (www.thebeyond.info)--that discusses the original newspaper article, as well as provides other specifics related to TAPS visit.
Amos J. Blake Musuem Links: Paranormal 'Evidence'
These links--searched via various related search terms on Google on 7/22/09 to 9/17/2009--document or reference paranormal activity reported at the museum.
These links--searched via various related search terms on Google on 7/22/09 to 9/17/2009--document or reference paranormal activity reported at the museum.
Some of the links present what I consider fairly strong evidence of possibly paranormal activity. Others document supposed 'evidence' that I consider suspect and/or highly exaggerated.
Below are the links, along with accompanying information:
Ghost Hunters Guild
http://www.ghosthuntersguild.com/museum.html
This is a link to a page that documents an investigation of an unnamed museum in southern New Hampshire conducted by the Ghost Hunters Guild. One can compare the photographs on this page to photos and video on other Web pages that are documented as the Amos J. Blake House and decide on the identity of the location for yourself.
The reference this group makes regarding a 'ghost' writing on a chalkboard pertains to an event that occurred during an investigation of the Amos J. Blake House Museum by another paranormal group(s)--E.C.T.O. Paranormal and Sights Unseen Paranormal. Sights Unseen's conclusion was that the occurrence was more then likely not paranormal in origin.
A photograph of the "writing" was viewable on CSPG's Web site (see below), but was removed along with all other "evidence" shortly after T.A.P.S. visit and subsequent Keene Sentinel newspaper article. A Sights Unseen Paranormal team member who observed the "writing" asserts that the evidence was altered between the time she viewed it, and the photograph in question was taken.
Ghost Hunters Guild
http://www.ghosthuntersguild.com/museum.html
This is a link to a page that documents an investigation of an unnamed museum in southern New Hampshire conducted by the Ghost Hunters Guild. One can compare the photographs on this page to photos and video on other Web pages that are documented as the Amos J. Blake House and decide on the identity of the location for yourself.
The reference this group makes regarding a 'ghost' writing on a chalkboard pertains to an event that occurred during an investigation of the Amos J. Blake House Museum by another paranormal group(s)--E.C.T.O. Paranormal and Sights Unseen Paranormal. Sights Unseen's conclusion was that the occurrence was more then likely not paranormal in origin.
A photograph of the "writing" was viewable on CSPG's Web site (see below), but was removed along with all other "evidence" shortly after T.A.P.S. visit and subsequent Keene Sentinel newspaper article. A Sights Unseen Paranormal team member who observed the "writing" asserts that the evidence was altered between the time she viewed it, and the photograph in question was taken.
Conscious Spirits Paranormal Group
This article features the Conscious Spirits Paranormal Group--the group founded by the museums curator shortly after Ghosthunters expressed interest in the location-- and appeared in the Equinox, the student newspaper of Keene State College.
Up until the end of August, 2009, evidence from Conscious Spirit Paranormal Group's multiple investigations of the museum were available through archived versions of several of the groups Web pages, but as of 9/17/09 CSPG has restricted access to this information.
I have published the links below as they do lead to CSPG's Web pages, but say "Information not available" though the browser tab headings are still intact.
It is interesting to note that CSPG removed all information--including documentation of CSPG investigations, an on-going diary of paranormal events, and other odds and ends including a picture of the infamous "ghost writing' photograph mentioned above--about the location from their Web site shortly after TAPS visit and subsequent Keene Sentinel newspaper article. This is unfortunate, for though we thought the information presented was exaggerated, we enjoyed following the reports of activity from the museum.
http://theconsciousspirit.com/page14/page14.html
UPDATE: As of 9/17/09, the browser's tab says "Amos Report 3/28" though CSPG has restricted access to this page. This page contained documentation of an investigation of the museum.
http://theconsciousspirit.com/In%20the%20News/inthenews.html
UPDATE: As of 9/17/09, the browser's tab says "In the News" though CSPG has restricted access to this page. This page featured a copy of the article published by the Keene State Equinox.
Amos J. Blake House Diary This is the text from the Google link to this page. The museum was not identified on the Web page itself--it was specifically mentioned that the location was kept private--which was interesting because both the links address and the browser tab identify the location as the museum. The page featured a "diary" of on-going reports of possible paranormal activity at the museum including references to multiple intelligent spirits that were said to haunt the location. In was on this page that the "ghost writing" picture mentioned above appeared. The Web page address for this link is:
http://theconsciousspirit.com/Amos%20J.%20Blake%20House/amosblakehouse.html
UPDATE: As of 9/17/09, the browser's tab says "Amos J. Blake House" though CSPG has restricted access to this page.
Dark Nights Paranormal
This evidence is from an investigation conducted by Dark Nights Paranormal, a team of competent investigators in the area. They've completed two investigations of the location.
This article features the Conscious Spirits Paranormal Group--the group founded by the museums curator shortly after Ghosthunters expressed interest in the location-- and appeared in the Equinox, the student newspaper of Keene State College.
Another article published by the Equinox about CSPG's investigation of the location.
http://www.keeneequinox.com/2.12176/not-the-typical-night-out-on-the-town-1.1658505
This is yet another article originally published in the Equinox on CSPG that was picked up by the Web site, Our Strange World.
http://www.keeneequinox.com/2.12176/not-the-typical-night-out-on-the-town-1.1658505
This is yet another article originally published in the Equinox on CSPG that was picked up by the Web site, Our Strange World.
Up until the end of August, 2009, evidence from Conscious Spirit Paranormal Group's multiple investigations of the museum were available through archived versions of several of the groups Web pages, but as of 9/17/09 CSPG has restricted access to this information.
I have published the links below as they do lead to CSPG's Web pages, but say "Information not available" though the browser tab headings are still intact.
It is interesting to note that CSPG removed all information--including documentation of CSPG investigations, an on-going diary of paranormal events, and other odds and ends including a picture of the infamous "ghost writing' photograph mentioned above--about the location from their Web site shortly after TAPS visit and subsequent Keene Sentinel newspaper article. This is unfortunate, for though we thought the information presented was exaggerated, we enjoyed following the reports of activity from the museum.
http://theconsciousspirit.com/page14/page14.html
UPDATE: As of 9/17/09, the browser's tab says "Amos Report 3/28" though CSPG has restricted access to this page. This page contained documentation of an investigation of the museum.
http://theconsciousspirit.com/In%20the%20News/inthenews.html
UPDATE: As of 9/17/09, the browser's tab says "In the News" though CSPG has restricted access to this page. This page featured a copy of the article published by the Keene State Equinox.
Amos J. Blake House Diary This is the text from the Google link to this page. The museum was not identified on the Web page itself--it was specifically mentioned that the location was kept private--which was interesting because both the links address and the browser tab identify the location as the museum. The page featured a "diary" of on-going reports of possible paranormal activity at the museum including references to multiple intelligent spirits that were said to haunt the location. In was on this page that the "ghost writing" picture mentioned above appeared. The Web page address for this link is:
http://theconsciousspirit.com/Amos%20J.%20Blake%20House/amosblakehouse.html
UPDATE: As of 9/17/09, the browser's tab says "Amos J. Blake House" though CSPG has restricted access to this page.
Dark Nights Paranormal
This evidence is from an investigation conducted by Dark Nights Paranormal, a team of competent investigators in the area. They've completed two investigations of the location.
http://www.darknightsparanormal.com/investigationnotes.htm
I hope that this article helps you TAPS fans--as well as those interested in the museum--with your research on the Amos J. Blake House. We will be watching closely to see if TAPS results correlate with what we know to be true regarding this location.
East Coast Transcommunication Organization
This evidence is from an investigation conducted by the East Coast Transcommunication Organization, an excellent--and probably the most technically-savvy--group of investigators in the area.
This evidence is from an investigation conducted by the East Coast Transcommunication Organization, an excellent--and probably the most technically-savvy--group of investigators in the area.
I hope that this article helps you TAPS fans--as well as those interested in the museum--with your research on the Amos J. Blake House. We will be watching closely to see if TAPS results correlate with what we know to be true regarding this location.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Farmer With an Axe Handle, A Haunting Encounter; by Bobby Elgee, Lead Investigator
Old New England Estate
Southeastern Vermont
Late August 2006
I have a friend of mine whose been metal detecting for over 20 years and he’d shown me some interesting artifacts he discovered. Many of the items of were found on an estate in southern Vermont that dated back to the Revolutionary War.
Variety of artifacts including buttons, coins, and a Catholic medallion
One day, during the late afternoon, we had the idea to lay out the stuff on a white blanket on top of a rod iron patio table and take a picture. Both of us are very interested in history, and this expresses itself in his propensity for metal detecting and my interest in the paranormal.
On at late August night around 11pm, my friend and I were standing around a campfire in his backyard. I had wanted to visit the estate where he discovered most of the artifacts because he told me about being ‘helped along’ by a ghost when he was metal detecting. This took the form of a helpful hand on his back.
“No way, you’ve been touched?” I said, a little too exuberantly.
“Oh yeah. It was like I was walking in a line of people. I paused a moment, and felt a hand on my back, like it was encouraging me to keep moving.”
My friend isn’t scared of ghosts, but he is very leery. Of course, he is wise to be cautious. When you’ve seen full-bodied apparitions that have spoken to you, ended up in a line of ghostly revolutionary war soldiers, and have been metal detecting and found a ring still attached to skeletal hand and arm--then re-bury it, ring intact– he had every right to be wary.
So, after nagging him for about a year, he finally indulged me, and we hiked down the road and crept up on the big estate during the full moon.
We stuck to the shadows as we edged up to the well-manicured lawn and looked toward the house–an old New England estate that even had a photograph of some Civil War soldiers standing outside the residence hanging in a frame above the fireplace. This photograph could be easily seen–I had glimpsed it one during the day–if you could get close enough to peek inside the large bay window looking in on the living room.
I had kept telling my friend that I wanted to run up and look in the window. He said that he didn’t think that this was a good idea. My friend had permission to be on the property to metal detect whenever he wanted, and we weren’t worried about the police arresting us for trespassing as both of us are the trust-worthy sort.
The house wasn’t abandoned by any stretch of the imagination, though we knew no one was there at the time. Well-taken care of by a caretaker, it was an excellent example of an old New England salt box, with an old red barn on the property. Considering the historical nature of the location–and with all the artifacts that had been discovered–the place was something we definitely treated with respect.
Fuse holder from a cannon
We had crept to the edge of a lilac bush, next to a big tree, across an expanse of lawn from the window that I planned to look in. Being a fledgling paranormal investigator at the time, I had a vague realization that this isn’t really how you should do that sort of thing, and wasn’t prepared in the least.
With this thought in my brain, I made a break for the house. I ran to the northwest corner, and hid in the shadow of a rhoderdenron from which I could inch my way up and peek in the picture window.
I moved forward very slowly. The sound of the crickets and other insects was very loud. I got to the edge of the window and put my hand on the frame, pulling myself forward, just wanting to gain enough of an angle where I could seen the picture hanging above the mantle.
Suddenly, there was a knock on the front door. Two solid knocks. I paused, and had the distinct feeling that looking inside the house wasn’t such a good idea. I turned and ran back toward the tree–across the open yard–to where my friend was standing.
At the same time I saw a shadow rush out from the door to the barn, which was closed. At the same time, my friend swears he saw a farmer in overalls moving quickly from the barn toward the house, with something like a shovel or axe handle in his hand. By the time I had made it to my friends location, the apparition had disappeared.
We stood underneath the tree, trying to comprehend what had just happened.
“What the hell did you do?” he asked. I had no answer to his question.
We crept slowly along the edge of the shadows to the road, then walked home.
And, whatever it was, it wasn’t messing around. Instead it appeared to be protecting the location, ensuring that the property was safe from two people who hadn’t made their intent clear.
In all my years of ghost hunting, this remains one of the strangest and most unsettling experiences I’ve had, and it’s not one I intend to repeat. Now, I go in with an open mind and announce my intentions, ensuring that whatever spirits I encounter don’t misconstrue my curiosity for something else.
Southeastern Vermont
Late August 2006
I have a friend of mine whose been metal detecting for over 20 years and he’d shown me some interesting artifacts he discovered. Many of the items of were found on an estate in southern Vermont that dated back to the Revolutionary War.
Variety of artifacts including buttons, coins, and a Catholic medallion
One day, during the late afternoon, we had the idea to lay out the stuff on a white blanket on top of a rod iron patio table and take a picture. Both of us are very interested in history, and this expresses itself in his propensity for metal detecting and my interest in the paranormal.
On at late August night around 11pm, my friend and I were standing around a campfire in his backyard. I had wanted to visit the estate where he discovered most of the artifacts because he told me about being ‘helped along’ by a ghost when he was metal detecting. This took the form of a helpful hand on his back.
“No way, you’ve been touched?” I said, a little too exuberantly.
“Oh yeah. It was like I was walking in a line of people. I paused a moment, and felt a hand on my back, like it was encouraging me to keep moving.”
My friend isn’t scared of ghosts, but he is very leery. Of course, he is wise to be cautious. When you’ve seen full-bodied apparitions that have spoken to you, ended up in a line of ghostly revolutionary war soldiers, and have been metal detecting and found a ring still attached to skeletal hand and arm--then re-bury it, ring intact– he had every right to be wary.
So, after nagging him for about a year, he finally indulged me, and we hiked down the road and crept up on the big estate during the full moon.
We stuck to the shadows as we edged up to the well-manicured lawn and looked toward the house–an old New England estate that even had a photograph of some Civil War soldiers standing outside the residence hanging in a frame above the fireplace. This photograph could be easily seen–I had glimpsed it one during the day–if you could get close enough to peek inside the large bay window looking in on the living room.
I had kept telling my friend that I wanted to run up and look in the window. He said that he didn’t think that this was a good idea. My friend had permission to be on the property to metal detect whenever he wanted, and we weren’t worried about the police arresting us for trespassing as both of us are the trust-worthy sort.
The house wasn’t abandoned by any stretch of the imagination, though we knew no one was there at the time. Well-taken care of by a caretaker, it was an excellent example of an old New England salt box, with an old red barn on the property. Considering the historical nature of the location–and with all the artifacts that had been discovered–the place was something we definitely treated with respect.
Fuse holder from a cannon
We had crept to the edge of a lilac bush, next to a big tree, across an expanse of lawn from the window that I planned to look in. Being a fledgling paranormal investigator at the time, I had a vague realization that this isn’t really how you should do that sort of thing, and wasn’t prepared in the least.
With this thought in my brain, I made a break for the house. I ran to the northwest corner, and hid in the shadow of a rhoderdenron from which I could inch my way up and peek in the picture window.
I moved forward very slowly. The sound of the crickets and other insects was very loud. I got to the edge of the window and put my hand on the frame, pulling myself forward, just wanting to gain enough of an angle where I could seen the picture hanging above the mantle.
Suddenly, there was a knock on the front door. Two solid knocks. I paused, and had the distinct feeling that looking inside the house wasn’t such a good idea. I turned and ran back toward the tree–across the open yard–to where my friend was standing.
At the same time I saw a shadow rush out from the door to the barn, which was closed. At the same time, my friend swears he saw a farmer in overalls moving quickly from the barn toward the house, with something like a shovel or axe handle in his hand. By the time I had made it to my friends location, the apparition had disappeared.
We stood underneath the tree, trying to comprehend what had just happened.
“What the hell did you do?” he asked. I had no answer to his question.
We crept slowly along the edge of the shadows to the road, then walked home.
The inscription on the back of this medallion says
"I'm a Catholic. Contact a priest."
Something I have learned is to respect the paranormal. And intent is everything. If we hadn’t been sneaking around like we were, perhaps we would’ve had a completely different experience. My feeling is that we stirred something up, and it reacted to us."I'm a Catholic. Contact a priest."
And, whatever it was, it wasn’t messing around. Instead it appeared to be protecting the location, ensuring that the property was safe from two people who hadn’t made their intent clear.
In all my years of ghost hunting, this remains one of the strangest and most unsettling experiences I’ve had, and it’s not one I intend to repeat. Now, I go in with an open mind and announce my intentions, ensuring that whatever spirits I encounter don’t misconstrue my curiosity for something else.
Take Me to the Other Side: Moral Responsibilities of Ghost Hunters as Related to Spirits and the Afterlife; Bobby Elgee, Lead Investigator
This article is an open query to all ghost hunters, paranormal investigators, psychics, mediums, parapsychologists, and theologians regarding the possible moral obligations concerning assisting certain types of ghosts–as defined as the consciousness of deceased persons possibly trapped in the material realm–to move on to ‘the other side.’
I am an amateur paranormal investigator with limited experience and many questions cross my mind, not only about the research and gathering ‘evidence’ of the paranormal, but also questions related to the moral, ethical, and spiritual aspects of this endeavor.
My question is this:
Do we have an obligation to assist ghosts in their transition to ‘the other side’?
The question is based on a series of assumptions as follows.
1. Ghosts are the consciousness of deceased humans and certain ghosts are ‘stuck’ in the material realm.
2. Some ghosts may be unaware that they are ghosts and/or they are unable to muster the actions/steps necessary to ‘move on.’
3. There is something beyond the material realm. A place or state exists that is a natural and probably desirable next step, and getting there is necessary to complete the spiritual evolution of these free-floating ‘minds’ called ghosts.
4. Thus we, as the living, being knowledgeable of the condition of their existence--and theoretically having the tools to assist them in their spiritual evolution–should render this assistance.
The above assumptions possibly place us–as paranormal investigators and others concerned with the spiritual evolution of our species–in a unique position to be able to provide this assistance. If the assumptions above are true and/or you believe in ghosts, to not act based on these assumptions be could something akin to leaving Kitty Genovese bleeding on the street.
If you believe that people should be altruistic–that is being obligated and willing to help our fellow humans (and ghosts)–we should seriously consider this issue.
There is research that shows that humans can be altruistic. They certainly may demonstrate this trait. We operate in groups for the greater good and are social creatures. However, there is also social psychological research that demonstrates that we are very selfish, e.g. we may only clearly operate altruistically when it serves our own needs/ideals or that of our family. We may be unique in the animal kingdom considering our combination of altruistic and selfish traits. The discussion of these psychological and sociological ideas certainly goes beyond the constrains of this article, but they do bear mentioning.
So, when considering this question, one has to look deep into oneself and society and consider whether your answer to the question is self-serving or genuinely altruistic.
Considering the popular television show Ghost Hunters, rarely do they televise cleansing efforts, involve religious authorities or psychics specific to this issue, and it appears that their activities in regards to their clients mostly involve educating their clients to paranormal phenomena with the tenet that knowledge reduces fear–and that there is really nothing to fear. At least for the humans involved.
This is just on the surface, and TAPS (The Atlantic Paranormal Society) certainly provides more services than is discernable from their television show and has demonstrated the capability to provide referrals to professionals and experts capable of operating under the assumptions I mentioned earlier.
Anyone that has done any background research on Grant, Jason, and Steve–the force behind TAPS– realizes that their paranormal experiences far exceeds what is able to be shown in an hour television show. For all the commercialization and debates to as to whether the ‘evidence’ they present is valid, they do deserve immense credit to bringing the realm of the paranormal–and implications on the spiritual evolution of the human race–to light and educating the general public in regards to these type of phenomena as genuine and legitimate human experiences.
Other television shows have a bent that lends themselves more toward addressing the possible moral and ethical responsibilities that this article is questioning. Paranormal State, the team of young investigators and paranormal entrepreneurs from Penn State, definitely deserves credit for bringing this issue more to light and embracing a wider spirituality that underlies the entire endeavor.
Both groups, Ghost Hunters and Paranormal State, are clearly human-centric. The living are more important then the dead. Their needs take precedent, being the primary needs in any case. This is a premise I have to believe, as my belief in ghosts and the afterlife are unresolved at best. If a child is scared, or an adult is being tormented by paranormal experiences, the impact on their quality of life is obvious. Why the supposed ‘ghosts’ are exhibiting this ‘behavior’ is always secondary to the needs of the living..
Are we racist against ghosts? Do we neglect their needs in support of the living? Absolutely, but this is the way it is. There is a conscious and unconscious assigning of priorities in any paranormal investigation, and whether we are ‘racists’ considering ghosts is fodder for another article, the implications of which are not discussed here.
I take this type of bias as possible indication of genuine altruism exhibited by the human race. It is one of the ways that demonstrates that we, as living humans, are part of the same family. Ghosts, by definition, are not, though perhaps they once were. Thus ghosts become the second-class citizens of any paranormal investigation. Though ghosts are the reason we’re investigating in the first place, in reality they are not. We are investigating for us, and sometimes ghosts are treated like nothing more then strange animals in a zoo where we go to gawk. Again, these issues are very interesting, but beyond the bounds of this article.
So, we come back to the original question:
Do we have an obligation to help ghosts move to the other side?
Consider the following series of questions which represent a potential can of worms related to the question above.
1. What if some ghosts choose to stay?
There are documented cases of people who are alive, astrally traveling or presumably engaging in ESP and appearing as apparitions to people, family members, or even complete strangers. How do you determine the difference between this phenomena and that of a haunting?
Then we would need to determine the difference between a residual haunting and an intelligent haunting, assuming that residual haunting is not caused by a conscious spirit.
What’s left may be an intelligent haunting. If so, how would we decide if the ghost wants to be here, or that it doesn’t know it is trapped? What if the ghost knows it’s trapped, and believes that the other side is hell? Again, we have a can of worms here which may place us–as paranormal investigators–casting judgements that have already been decided by the concepts of God across a variety of religions.
2. How do we determine the reasons why an intelligent ghost is staying? How do we decide those reasons presumably using the tools we have now?
3. Once we’ve determined the answers to #1 and #2, what do we do next? How do we decide which ghosts to help, and those that don’t need or want our help? What tactics do we employ to accomplish this?
So, we are left with a series of questions that are very important, addressing the basic premise of what it is to be human–and to be a ghost–and our obligations and responsibilities as to what that means. Ranging from theology, spirituality, psychology, to the tactics of ghost hunting, this “hobby” certainly generates questions–and possibly answers–that may affect all of the human race.
I have no answers, only questions. However, in my quest to become a more competent paranormal investigator, I believe the techniques and technology are the relatively easy questions to address. The questions behind why we are employing such tactics–the difficult part in my opinion–and our eventual goals become very important for all ghost hunters to consider.
I firmly believe that we cannot flail blindly in the dark when dealing with such questions. I think, whether we believe in ghosts or not, we do have an obligation to help them if they need it. Not to do so makes you less human in my opinion. And, I feel that many groups neglect these questions or when they are addressed, it is done so in an cursory and self-serving way. I certainly do not exempt myself from this, and perhaps writing this makes me a hypocrite.
In my opinion, there are many obstacles in the way of developing any type of consensus in these matters. One of the main obstacles is inconsistent use of language and even a basic ignorance, and perhaps disagreement, in regards to various terminology.
For example, many groups state that their goal is to find proof of the paranormal. This is a misnomer. The fact is that paranormal phenomena does exist. I define paranormal as something that is currently unexplainable by science. There is plenty of phenomena that is unexplainable by science, as every scientist will tell you.
One needs to clearly define the words they are using if they pretend they are doing something remotely resembling scientific research. If everyone uses the same word in a different way, no one has any idea what anyone is talking about. In scientific research, one doesn’t generally have to worry about this. In the field of paranormal investigation, I feel this problem is pervasive.
Some groups clearly state that their goal is to prove the existence of the afterlife or life after death. These groups come more closely to presenting themselves in a way that elucidates their goals. But what exactly are their goals?
Lets be frank, no one is probably ever going to prove the existence of the afterlife in the foreseeable future. A lofty goal, sure, but one in all likelihood is probably unobtainable. Setting realistic goals is important in any endeavor, and ghost hunting is no different. Perhaps setting such an all encompassing goal undermines the method, and the ability to work toward obtaining this goal.
Running around, taking strange photographs, capturing audio of unexplained voices, and documenting cold spots and spikes in EMF activity may not be advancing the body of knowledge toward proving the afterlife in any meaningful way. However, at this point, these are some the most popular tools we have.
If you do want to prove the existence of the afterlife, and you capture some evidence of what you feel is a ghost, how come most people just walk away from it? They put the picture on their Web site and show it off, with little regard to the ghost itself. Even worse then that, they may return to the location–even bringing in more investigators–in an attempt to capture further ‘evidence.’ And yet, what is done as far as attempts to determine why the ‘ghost’ is there and what can be done to help it’s spiritual evolution? Again, this unfortunate spirit is reduced to an exhibit, a zoo animal, and something to be harassed.
There has to be more then that, and as a ghost hunter or paranormal investigator, especially if you believe in ghosts, you should do something about it, and hopefully something that will help on a spiritual level. Otherwise, in my opinion, you are nothing better then a tourist and an amateur, and are solely thinking of your own needs and desires. In other words, you are being self-serving.
Many groups are very committed to debunking. In my mind, these groups have less of an obligation to assist these disembodied spirits. For myself, I am not convinced of the existence of ghosts. The paranormal phenomena I have captured evidence of is simply that in my mind. It’s paranormal–unexplained by science. Subsequently calling such phenomena a ghost is a leap of faith I can’t make with any degree of certainty at this time. Thus, I’m fairly comfortable not attaching any spiritual implications or obligations to any such phenomena.
Until I am actually convinced that there are such things as ghosts, I don’t necessarily feel any obligation to take further steps beyond just trying to figure out what “it” is. However, I do articulate this, and don’t run around identifying such phenomena as ghosts, then do nothing about it. Also, I do work with people who study these aspects of paranormal investigations, and feel that they have the skills to address these aspects if necessary.
Of course, I may be wrong and self-serving and–in an effort to justify my actions and reconcile them with my thoughts and opinions on the subject–may be neglecting a very important piece of the puzzle. In fact, I have a nagging feeling in the back of my head this may be the very case.
Given the original premise of this article, ghost hunters become elevated to a unique group– a group who has to have an understanding of human psychology, culture, and spirituality, and be able to offer advice and take action concerning a spirits spiritual well-being.
The field of paranormal investigation will evolved only if people consider the basic questions, motivations, and drives beyond just capturing evidence. Look at the original question underneath it all...why do we do this?
To take a basic tenet of ethics, one must first do no harm. Regardless of whether ghosts exist–and by default this implies the existence of an afterlife–I sincerely don’t believe that most paranormal investigators are causing any harm. But if one does consider the spiritual implications regarding helping a trapped spirit, we are acting on a body of imperfect knowledge, and thus by doing so, perhaps could cause harm if we aren’t very careful and thoughtful in our methods.
So, are there any answers in this article? Probably not, but there are many questions and the half-baked musings of an amateur ghost hunter who may just be in over his head.
I am an amateur paranormal investigator with limited experience and many questions cross my mind, not only about the research and gathering ‘evidence’ of the paranormal, but also questions related to the moral, ethical, and spiritual aspects of this endeavor.
My question is this:
Do we have an obligation to assist ghosts in their transition to ‘the other side’?
The question is based on a series of assumptions as follows.
1. Ghosts are the consciousness of deceased humans and certain ghosts are ‘stuck’ in the material realm.
2. Some ghosts may be unaware that they are ghosts and/or they are unable to muster the actions/steps necessary to ‘move on.’
3. There is something beyond the material realm. A place or state exists that is a natural and probably desirable next step, and getting there is necessary to complete the spiritual evolution of these free-floating ‘minds’ called ghosts.
4. Thus we, as the living, being knowledgeable of the condition of their existence--and theoretically having the tools to assist them in their spiritual evolution–should render this assistance.
The above assumptions possibly place us–as paranormal investigators and others concerned with the spiritual evolution of our species–in a unique position to be able to provide this assistance. If the assumptions above are true and/or you believe in ghosts, to not act based on these assumptions be could something akin to leaving Kitty Genovese bleeding on the street.
If you believe that people should be altruistic–that is being obligated and willing to help our fellow humans (and ghosts)–we should seriously consider this issue.
There is research that shows that humans can be altruistic. They certainly may demonstrate this trait. We operate in groups for the greater good and are social creatures. However, there is also social psychological research that demonstrates that we are very selfish, e.g. we may only clearly operate altruistically when it serves our own needs/ideals or that of our family. We may be unique in the animal kingdom considering our combination of altruistic and selfish traits. The discussion of these psychological and sociological ideas certainly goes beyond the constrains of this article, but they do bear mentioning.
So, when considering this question, one has to look deep into oneself and society and consider whether your answer to the question is self-serving or genuinely altruistic.
Considering the popular television show Ghost Hunters, rarely do they televise cleansing efforts, involve religious authorities or psychics specific to this issue, and it appears that their activities in regards to their clients mostly involve educating their clients to paranormal phenomena with the tenet that knowledge reduces fear–and that there is really nothing to fear. At least for the humans involved.
This is just on the surface, and TAPS (The Atlantic Paranormal Society) certainly provides more services than is discernable from their television show and has demonstrated the capability to provide referrals to professionals and experts capable of operating under the assumptions I mentioned earlier.
Anyone that has done any background research on Grant, Jason, and Steve–the force behind TAPS– realizes that their paranormal experiences far exceeds what is able to be shown in an hour television show. For all the commercialization and debates to as to whether the ‘evidence’ they present is valid, they do deserve immense credit to bringing the realm of the paranormal–and implications on the spiritual evolution of the human race–to light and educating the general public in regards to these type of phenomena as genuine and legitimate human experiences.
Other television shows have a bent that lends themselves more toward addressing the possible moral and ethical responsibilities that this article is questioning. Paranormal State, the team of young investigators and paranormal entrepreneurs from Penn State, definitely deserves credit for bringing this issue more to light and embracing a wider spirituality that underlies the entire endeavor.
Both groups, Ghost Hunters and Paranormal State, are clearly human-centric. The living are more important then the dead. Their needs take precedent, being the primary needs in any case. This is a premise I have to believe, as my belief in ghosts and the afterlife are unresolved at best. If a child is scared, or an adult is being tormented by paranormal experiences, the impact on their quality of life is obvious. Why the supposed ‘ghosts’ are exhibiting this ‘behavior’ is always secondary to the needs of the living..
Are we racist against ghosts? Do we neglect their needs in support of the living? Absolutely, but this is the way it is. There is a conscious and unconscious assigning of priorities in any paranormal investigation, and whether we are ‘racists’ considering ghosts is fodder for another article, the implications of which are not discussed here.
I take this type of bias as possible indication of genuine altruism exhibited by the human race. It is one of the ways that demonstrates that we, as living humans, are part of the same family. Ghosts, by definition, are not, though perhaps they once were. Thus ghosts become the second-class citizens of any paranormal investigation. Though ghosts are the reason we’re investigating in the first place, in reality they are not. We are investigating for us, and sometimes ghosts are treated like nothing more then strange animals in a zoo where we go to gawk. Again, these issues are very interesting, but beyond the bounds of this article.
So, we come back to the original question:
Do we have an obligation to help ghosts move to the other side?
Consider the following series of questions which represent a potential can of worms related to the question above.
1. What if some ghosts choose to stay?
There are documented cases of people who are alive, astrally traveling or presumably engaging in ESP and appearing as apparitions to people, family members, or even complete strangers. How do you determine the difference between this phenomena and that of a haunting?
Then we would need to determine the difference between a residual haunting and an intelligent haunting, assuming that residual haunting is not caused by a conscious spirit.
What’s left may be an intelligent haunting. If so, how would we decide if the ghost wants to be here, or that it doesn’t know it is trapped? What if the ghost knows it’s trapped, and believes that the other side is hell? Again, we have a can of worms here which may place us–as paranormal investigators–casting judgements that have already been decided by the concepts of God across a variety of religions.
2. How do we determine the reasons why an intelligent ghost is staying? How do we decide those reasons presumably using the tools we have now?
3. Once we’ve determined the answers to #1 and #2, what do we do next? How do we decide which ghosts to help, and those that don’t need or want our help? What tactics do we employ to accomplish this?
So, we are left with a series of questions that are very important, addressing the basic premise of what it is to be human–and to be a ghost–and our obligations and responsibilities as to what that means. Ranging from theology, spirituality, psychology, to the tactics of ghost hunting, this “hobby” certainly generates questions–and possibly answers–that may affect all of the human race.
I have no answers, only questions. However, in my quest to become a more competent paranormal investigator, I believe the techniques and technology are the relatively easy questions to address. The questions behind why we are employing such tactics–the difficult part in my opinion–and our eventual goals become very important for all ghost hunters to consider.
I firmly believe that we cannot flail blindly in the dark when dealing with such questions. I think, whether we believe in ghosts or not, we do have an obligation to help them if they need it. Not to do so makes you less human in my opinion. And, I feel that many groups neglect these questions or when they are addressed, it is done so in an cursory and self-serving way. I certainly do not exempt myself from this, and perhaps writing this makes me a hypocrite.
In my opinion, there are many obstacles in the way of developing any type of consensus in these matters. One of the main obstacles is inconsistent use of language and even a basic ignorance, and perhaps disagreement, in regards to various terminology.
For example, many groups state that their goal is to find proof of the paranormal. This is a misnomer. The fact is that paranormal phenomena does exist. I define paranormal as something that is currently unexplainable by science. There is plenty of phenomena that is unexplainable by science, as every scientist will tell you.
One needs to clearly define the words they are using if they pretend they are doing something remotely resembling scientific research. If everyone uses the same word in a different way, no one has any idea what anyone is talking about. In scientific research, one doesn’t generally have to worry about this. In the field of paranormal investigation, I feel this problem is pervasive.
Some groups clearly state that their goal is to prove the existence of the afterlife or life after death. These groups come more closely to presenting themselves in a way that elucidates their goals. But what exactly are their goals?
Lets be frank, no one is probably ever going to prove the existence of the afterlife in the foreseeable future. A lofty goal, sure, but one in all likelihood is probably unobtainable. Setting realistic goals is important in any endeavor, and ghost hunting is no different. Perhaps setting such an all encompassing goal undermines the method, and the ability to work toward obtaining this goal.
Running around, taking strange photographs, capturing audio of unexplained voices, and documenting cold spots and spikes in EMF activity may not be advancing the body of knowledge toward proving the afterlife in any meaningful way. However, at this point, these are some the most popular tools we have.
If you do want to prove the existence of the afterlife, and you capture some evidence of what you feel is a ghost, how come most people just walk away from it? They put the picture on their Web site and show it off, with little regard to the ghost itself. Even worse then that, they may return to the location–even bringing in more investigators–in an attempt to capture further ‘evidence.’ And yet, what is done as far as attempts to determine why the ‘ghost’ is there and what can be done to help it’s spiritual evolution? Again, this unfortunate spirit is reduced to an exhibit, a zoo animal, and something to be harassed.
There has to be more then that, and as a ghost hunter or paranormal investigator, especially if you believe in ghosts, you should do something about it, and hopefully something that will help on a spiritual level. Otherwise, in my opinion, you are nothing better then a tourist and an amateur, and are solely thinking of your own needs and desires. In other words, you are being self-serving.
Many groups are very committed to debunking. In my mind, these groups have less of an obligation to assist these disembodied spirits. For myself, I am not convinced of the existence of ghosts. The paranormal phenomena I have captured evidence of is simply that in my mind. It’s paranormal–unexplained by science. Subsequently calling such phenomena a ghost is a leap of faith I can’t make with any degree of certainty at this time. Thus, I’m fairly comfortable not attaching any spiritual implications or obligations to any such phenomena.
Until I am actually convinced that there are such things as ghosts, I don’t necessarily feel any obligation to take further steps beyond just trying to figure out what “it” is. However, I do articulate this, and don’t run around identifying such phenomena as ghosts, then do nothing about it. Also, I do work with people who study these aspects of paranormal investigations, and feel that they have the skills to address these aspects if necessary.
Of course, I may be wrong and self-serving and–in an effort to justify my actions and reconcile them with my thoughts and opinions on the subject–may be neglecting a very important piece of the puzzle. In fact, I have a nagging feeling in the back of my head this may be the very case.
Given the original premise of this article, ghost hunters become elevated to a unique group– a group who has to have an understanding of human psychology, culture, and spirituality, and be able to offer advice and take action concerning a spirits spiritual well-being.
The field of paranormal investigation will evolved only if people consider the basic questions, motivations, and drives beyond just capturing evidence. Look at the original question underneath it all...why do we do this?
To take a basic tenet of ethics, one must first do no harm. Regardless of whether ghosts exist–and by default this implies the existence of an afterlife–I sincerely don’t believe that most paranormal investigators are causing any harm. But if one does consider the spiritual implications regarding helping a trapped spirit, we are acting on a body of imperfect knowledge, and thus by doing so, perhaps could cause harm if we aren’t very careful and thoughtful in our methods.
So, are there any answers in this article? Probably not, but there are many questions and the half-baked musings of an amateur ghost hunter who may just be in over his head.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
TAPS Visits Amos J. Blake Museum by Bobby Elgee; Lead Investigator
This posting was written in response to a recent newspaper article (published in the Keene Sentinel, Keene, NH on Saturday, July 10, 2009) pertaining to The Atlantic Paranormal Society's (TAPS) recent investigation of the Amos J. Blake House Museum in Fitzwilliam, NH, the museum of the Fitzwilliam Historical Society, and their intention to use the footage on their television show "Ghost Hunters".
As a paranormal investigator, I have participated in three investigations at the Amos J. Blake House Museum. The group I am a member of was invited to investigate the location by the museum's curator. I am aware of approximately six different paranormal groups that have investigated the site. Though there are some indications of paranormal activity at the museum, all I have personally experienced is one cold spot, an unexplained voice, as well as capturing photographs of some strange mist. This is certainly not enough evidence to declare the place haunted by the standards of most paranormal investigators, however, we are all aware of the rarity of such phenomena and the difficulty of catching such phenomena on tape.
More recently, reports have been made of multiple apparitions, objects moving, and intelligent spirits haunting the location. These phenomena--as well as other strange events--have been reported by several groups, though most of these claims were made by Conscious Spirits Paranormal Group, a team founded by the museums curator. These events were documented on their Web site as recently as Thursday July 8th. Upon review of the groups site on Monday July 13, all references to the Amos J. Blake House investigations had been removed, though there is documentation of the groups investigation of the location at the Web site of the Keene State Equinox, a local college newspaper.
There are several links-- accessible via Google searches--to CSPG's Web site that portray their involvement with this location.
It is unclear to me why this information was deleted. I certainly enjoyed following the reported activity and even though our group considered the purported "evidence" to be highly exaggerated--being more attentive to debunking then many groups--I found it very entertaining.
At this point in time, two of the few sites where I can find any significant documentation of paranormal activity at the museum is on Dark Nights Paranormal's Web site, as well as ECTO Paranormal, two teams of competent and tech-savvy investigators based in the general area. There is at least one other Web site where documentation of an investigation of the museum is posted, however, the location is not being disclosed--though it was previously identified as such.
Apparently,there was a minor controversy involved with "Ghost Hunters," filming at the location, as it was reported that the museum's Board of Directors had no prior knowledge of the TAPS investigation of the museum. The newspaper article published several comments from a member of the board pertaining to this fact, and--as of the time this article was written--there is still appears to be some question as to who signed the release form that allowed the filming in the first place. The paper also reported that the curator of the museum--who participated in the filming--had no comment.
I find it interesting that the board had no prior knowledge of a film crew being invited to the location. It is also of interest to note that the curator of the museum is a former member of the group I am involved with. This individual left our group abruptly in February or March--and subsequently formed her own group--shortly after informing me that TAPS had contacted her and had expressed interest in setting up on the location. It was also at this time that the reports of purported paranormal activity at the location increased significantly. It is clear to me that TAPS was interested in this location, and--at least according to the curator--that there was some contact going on during this time between them and the museum..
In an open query to the Board of Directors of the Fitzwilliam Historical Society, I would ask the them to consider the publicity that may be garnered from the location's appearance on a national television show. In my experience, considering locations like the museum, publicity is a good thing. Many similar sites have capitalized on such attention for monetary gain and recognition. The board will certainly want to consider how they are going to handle requests from individuals and groups wanting to complete paranormal investigations of the location--if you choose to allow them at all--as well as other recognition and media attention that arises from such an event.
Some places charge special fees for unique "haunted tours," and others even arrange all-night ghost hunts. The U.S.S. Salem in Boston, MA, The Queen Mary in Long Beach, CA, and Waverly Hills Sanitorium in Louisville, KY are examples of locations that are earning revenue and recognition secondary to their haunted status, and are places where one can participate in a paranormal investigation, above and beyond taking a simple tour.
In general, I would say that most ghost hunters are a respectful bunch, and the good ones appreciate the historical significance of such locations, as well as the potential for any paranormal activity.
The Amos J. Blake House Museum is a wonderful example of a New England historical society museum with an interesting and varied collection of artifacts, and--in my mind--this fact FAR outstrips the possibility of any paranormal activity occurring there.
I have participated many paranormal investigations--and have experienced some very strange things--however, on a scale of 1 to 10 related to possible paranormal activity, I would rate the museum a 2 or 3. Considering its wonderful collection and the history contained within its walls, I would rate it a 10.
Of course TAPS, with their top-of-the-line equipment and considerable resources may certainly be more successful then an amateur ghost hunter such as myself when it comes to finding evidence of possible paranormal activity.
It is obvious to me that the board of the Fitzwilliam Historical Society needs to seriously consider if this is a direction they would like to move in, and how the museum got to this point in the first place--a national television show filming in the location, apparently without it's knowledge and consent.
At this time, it appears that consent has been given, albeit in a method in which the board was not aware, and that the investigation will air on national television. The board should consider how they can take advantage of this. My guess is that the situation be viewed as a positive one, an opportunity to increase attention for the museum, possibly resulting in revenue that could be used to help maintain this historic location. It may also have the added benefit of drawing some tourism to the town of Fitzwilliam, and the Monadnock area in general.
Of course, the board could certainly decide to let the spirits rest as well.
The Amos J. Blake House Museum is a wonderful example of a New England historical society museum with an interesting and varied collection of artifacts, and--in my mind--this fact FAR outstrips the possibility of any paranormal activity occurring there.
I have participated many paranormal investigations--and have experienced some very strange things--however, on a scale of 1 to 10 related to possible paranormal activity, I would rate the museum a 2 or 3. Considering its wonderful collection and the history contained within its walls, I would rate it a 10.
Of course TAPS, with their top-of-the-line equipment and considerable resources may certainly be more successful then an amateur ghost hunter such as myself when it comes to finding evidence of possible paranormal activity.
It is obvious to me that the board of the Fitzwilliam Historical Society needs to seriously consider if this is a direction they would like to move in, and how the museum got to this point in the first place--a national television show filming in the location, apparently without it's knowledge and consent.
At this time, it appears that consent has been given, albeit in a method in which the board was not aware, and that the investigation will air on national television. The board should consider how they can take advantage of this. My guess is that the situation be viewed as a positive one, an opportunity to increase attention for the museum, possibly resulting in revenue that could be used to help maintain this historic location. It may also have the added benefit of drawing some tourism to the town of Fitzwilliam, and the Monadnock area in general.
Of course, the board could certainly decide to let the spirits rest as well.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Hallucination or Apparition? by Bobby Elgee, Lead Investigator
This article was written in response to a question I was asked. A woman contacted our group and reported that her daughter had been admitted to an in-patient psychiatric facility for the treatment of bipolar disorder--a mental illness--and though the doctor had given her medications to stop the hallucinations she was experiencing, she continued to see full-bodied apparitions, and was reportedly was communicating with them. The woman asked me how to tell the difference between hallucinations caused by her daughters mental illness and real spirits that may haunt their home and the grounds of the mental hospital.
Having some background in the medical field, mental illness, cognitive psychology, vision, and--of course--ghost hunting--this was a question that I was willing to address. The answer was very clear to me, and my answer was roughly as follows:
"The most important issue is your daughter's medical and mental health. You are doing exactly what you need to do at the moment, seek the appropriate care from someone who is qualified to provide it. The question of seeing spirits is secondary to your daughters needs at the time. Though anything is possible, many individuals report seeing apparitions, and perhaps even communicating with them, and yet they are still able to function in day-to-day life. "
"I can't stress enough that it is up to the medical and mental health professionals to diagnose and treat any underlying problems first. At some point in the future, it may be possible to fully explore a possible paranormal angle to what your daughter is experiencing, but now is not the time. "
"In my opinion, you are doing everything possible to support your daughter in this difficult time. Is it possible that your daughter is seeing and communicating with apparitions and spirits? Yes, however, since your daughter has been diagnosed with a serious mental illness, your focus should be on the treatment necessary secondary to this diagnosis as recommended by qualified professionals. I would be very leery of any unqualified individual--be it a psychic, ghost hunter, or other--who suggests that your daughter has been misdiagnosed and is a victim of the medical establishment, i.e. a sensitive young lady that is only being persecuted and treated for a wonderful gift she has. The doctors treating your daughter are medical and mental health professionals with extensive training and experience based on an accepted body of scientific knowledge. Psychics and ghost hunters don't fall within this category, and you don't want to risk your daughter's health by following the advice of some misguided crackpot."
"In time, we may come to a place where a person is treated more holistically, i.e. spiritual, metaphysical, and other needs are comprehensively addressed, at the same time that someone's medical needs are taken care of. There are indications that we are moving in that direction considering the use of energy-centered treatments, massage therapy, acupuncture, and other forms of treatment that have been used throughout human history, but that--in general--western medicine has been slow to accept, but at this time, I want to stress you are doing the right thing. The fact that you even asked this question tells me that you are heavily involved in, and committed to your daughter's well-being."
So, did I give her the right advice? I believe that I did. Visual hallucinations, though relatively rare, can be caused by a wide variety of medical conditions ranging from the relatively benign to the very lethal, and I would hazard that most ghost hunters and psychics aren't qualified to diagnose these conditions. Leading someone down a path that interferes with their treatment for a legitimate medical condition can result in some very serious consequences. Since most of us aren't practicing doctors or nurses, however, there probably isn't much liability involved based on the advice we give as paranormal investigators. Regardless of how you feel about these areas of expertise based on your personal experiences, we do have to acknowledge that the fields of mental health diagnosis and treatment, and medical science are established bodies of knowledge based on scientific research. Ghost hunting and paranormal experiences are not.
The diagnosis and treatment of any complex medical condition is often compared to peeling an onion. There are many layers. Also, in general, you treat the most serious condition first. I can relate this to my experiences in the diagnosis and treatment of medically-based vision disorders. I've treated child after child that was having trouble reading due to vision problems. Sometimes, these children had seen doctor after doctor, and therapist after therapist, in an attempt to treat their learning/reading problems. Once a vision disorder was diagnosed, I was able to treat it with a high degree of efficacy, and eliminate it as a potential source or factor contributing to the child's learning/reading problems. In some cases, vision was the only problem. In other cases, vision was a component, but one that could be treated. Once treated, since the majority of learning is visually-based (no offense to my non-sighted friends reading this), the child was much more able to benefit from other treatments and therapies such as reading therapy, occupational therapy, and classroom interventions/modifications.
The point is that in the case of hallucinations, we need to look for a medical cause first. Once any underlying medical and mental health conditions are treated, perhaps then we can explore the paranormal aspects of the issue.
I encourage all team members to respond to questions we receive if they have anything valuable and relevant to offer. But, due to past experiences with individuals whom I consider ignorant and self-serving, I monitor responses in certain cases very closely.
Consider the following scenario:
A team members response is to immediately begin doing historical research on the area, and excitedly relay the fact that there is some history that indicated that the mental hospital had been built near the site of an old French/native American battleground, indicating the possibility that there may be spirits of this ethnic group on the property.
Subsequently relaying this information to the mother would be, in my opinion, very inappropriate and possibly detrimental to her daughters care. Suggesting, that yes, there is a possible paranormal cause to the visions the daughter is experiencing, and, thus, implying that the doctors were treating a paranormal experience as a mental illness could set up a conflict between the mother and her daughter's treatment team--based on what?--the historical research and insinuations of an amateur ghost hunter with no experience or interest in the well-being of the individual which generated the original question?
Does everyone who sees a full-bodied apparition need to go to the doctor for a CT scan? I don't believe so, especially if there is a documented paranormal history associated with the location, the apparition is that of a recently deceased loved one--the most common type of apparition according to some research--or the person has a life long history of such experiences. Of course, there are multiple factors involved in making such a judgment, but realize, that as paranormal investigators, we may have to address this question with our clients.
For myself, I have seen an apparition on one occasion...of a loved one that had passed relatively recently. And I have heard and seen some strange phenomena. Of course, if you catch it on tape, its not a hallucinating is it? However, if I suddenly began seeing apparitions frequently and it was impacting my life in the form of lack of sleep or other way detrimental to my health or my ability to function, I would be making an appointment with a doctor ASAP, and not depend on a ghost hunter with an EMF detector to diagnose my problem.
Having some background in the medical field, mental illness, cognitive psychology, vision, and--of course--ghost hunting--this was a question that I was willing to address. The answer was very clear to me, and my answer was roughly as follows:
"The most important issue is your daughter's medical and mental health. You are doing exactly what you need to do at the moment, seek the appropriate care from someone who is qualified to provide it. The question of seeing spirits is secondary to your daughters needs at the time. Though anything is possible, many individuals report seeing apparitions, and perhaps even communicating with them, and yet they are still able to function in day-to-day life. "
"I can't stress enough that it is up to the medical and mental health professionals to diagnose and treat any underlying problems first. At some point in the future, it may be possible to fully explore a possible paranormal angle to what your daughter is experiencing, but now is not the time. "
"In my opinion, you are doing everything possible to support your daughter in this difficult time. Is it possible that your daughter is seeing and communicating with apparitions and spirits? Yes, however, since your daughter has been diagnosed with a serious mental illness, your focus should be on the treatment necessary secondary to this diagnosis as recommended by qualified professionals. I would be very leery of any unqualified individual--be it a psychic, ghost hunter, or other--who suggests that your daughter has been misdiagnosed and is a victim of the medical establishment, i.e. a sensitive young lady that is only being persecuted and treated for a wonderful gift she has. The doctors treating your daughter are medical and mental health professionals with extensive training and experience based on an accepted body of scientific knowledge. Psychics and ghost hunters don't fall within this category, and you don't want to risk your daughter's health by following the advice of some misguided crackpot."
"In time, we may come to a place where a person is treated more holistically, i.e. spiritual, metaphysical, and other needs are comprehensively addressed, at the same time that someone's medical needs are taken care of. There are indications that we are moving in that direction considering the use of energy-centered treatments, massage therapy, acupuncture, and other forms of treatment that have been used throughout human history, but that--in general--western medicine has been slow to accept, but at this time, I want to stress you are doing the right thing. The fact that you even asked this question tells me that you are heavily involved in, and committed to your daughter's well-being."
So, did I give her the right advice? I believe that I did. Visual hallucinations, though relatively rare, can be caused by a wide variety of medical conditions ranging from the relatively benign to the very lethal, and I would hazard that most ghost hunters and psychics aren't qualified to diagnose these conditions. Leading someone down a path that interferes with their treatment for a legitimate medical condition can result in some very serious consequences. Since most of us aren't practicing doctors or nurses, however, there probably isn't much liability involved based on the advice we give as paranormal investigators. Regardless of how you feel about these areas of expertise based on your personal experiences, we do have to acknowledge that the fields of mental health diagnosis and treatment, and medical science are established bodies of knowledge based on scientific research. Ghost hunting and paranormal experiences are not.
The diagnosis and treatment of any complex medical condition is often compared to peeling an onion. There are many layers. Also, in general, you treat the most serious condition first. I can relate this to my experiences in the diagnosis and treatment of medically-based vision disorders. I've treated child after child that was having trouble reading due to vision problems. Sometimes, these children had seen doctor after doctor, and therapist after therapist, in an attempt to treat their learning/reading problems. Once a vision disorder was diagnosed, I was able to treat it with a high degree of efficacy, and eliminate it as a potential source or factor contributing to the child's learning/reading problems. In some cases, vision was the only problem. In other cases, vision was a component, but one that could be treated. Once treated, since the majority of learning is visually-based (no offense to my non-sighted friends reading this), the child was much more able to benefit from other treatments and therapies such as reading therapy, occupational therapy, and classroom interventions/modifications.
The point is that in the case of hallucinations, we need to look for a medical cause first. Once any underlying medical and mental health conditions are treated, perhaps then we can explore the paranormal aspects of the issue.
I encourage all team members to respond to questions we receive if they have anything valuable and relevant to offer. But, due to past experiences with individuals whom I consider ignorant and self-serving, I monitor responses in certain cases very closely.
Consider the following scenario:
A team members response is to immediately begin doing historical research on the area, and excitedly relay the fact that there is some history that indicated that the mental hospital had been built near the site of an old French/native American battleground, indicating the possibility that there may be spirits of this ethnic group on the property.
Subsequently relaying this information to the mother would be, in my opinion, very inappropriate and possibly detrimental to her daughters care. Suggesting, that yes, there is a possible paranormal cause to the visions the daughter is experiencing, and, thus, implying that the doctors were treating a paranormal experience as a mental illness could set up a conflict between the mother and her daughter's treatment team--based on what?--the historical research and insinuations of an amateur ghost hunter with no experience or interest in the well-being of the individual which generated the original question?
Does everyone who sees a full-bodied apparition need to go to the doctor for a CT scan? I don't believe so, especially if there is a documented paranormal history associated with the location, the apparition is that of a recently deceased loved one--the most common type of apparition according to some research--or the person has a life long history of such experiences. Of course, there are multiple factors involved in making such a judgment, but realize, that as paranormal investigators, we may have to address this question with our clients.
For myself, I have seen an apparition on one occasion...of a loved one that had passed relatively recently. And I have heard and seen some strange phenomena. Of course, if you catch it on tape, its not a hallucinating is it? However, if I suddenly began seeing apparitions frequently and it was impacting my life in the form of lack of sleep or other way detrimental to my health or my ability to function, I would be making an appointment with a doctor ASAP, and not depend on a ghost hunter with an EMF detector to diagnose my problem.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Intentional and Unintentional Manufacturing of Evidence in Paranormal Investigations; by Bobby Elgee, Lead Investigator
Paranormal investigators may encounter instances of manufactured "evidence." Please note that I use the term evidence loosely,--there is no such thing as scientific evidence of ghosts. I have not specifically encountered anything that I have been able to identify as a hoax in an attempt to fool our group, however, I frequently run across photographs--as well as audio and video--posted on various Web sites that I feel have been misidentified as paranormal phenomena. I should note that we encourage our consultants to submit hoaxed photographs to us--anonymously--in an attempt to sharpen our groups' debunking skills.
On Web sites such as Youtube, while there are clearly hoaxed videos, there are more that are simply misidentified...nothing malicious or tricky involved. It's usually some simple phenomena that is easily debunked, but due to inexperience or 'want of belief', is purported to be paranormal and-- even more of a jump--identified as a spirit or ghost.
So, why does this occur? I believe this usually arises from some combination of the two simple reasons I've listed below.
1. Due to inexperience with investigating and equipment
2. Due to wanting to believe in ghosts
Instances of faked or misrepresented "evidence" on the Web abound. I'm not talking about 'plasma' or 'light' anomalies identified as possibly paranormal by investigators. Without a great degree of expertise in photographic analysis and competent investigating--and even when these two factors are present--often you can't say for sure if something is paranormal. To skeptics, everything is a reflection, and to some paranormal investigators, everything is a ghost. Often there may be no obvious answer and one can never say for sure, so who's right?
Regardless of my personal beliefs, I feel that I have an obligation to be a skeptic. Others more readily apply the paranormal label to something that's not easily explained. In my five years as an investigator, I have captured only one or two pieces of evidence that I can call paranormal with any amount of certainty.
Competent paranormal investigators attempt to rule out all rational causes for an anomaly--a process often termed 'debunking.' What's left may just be unexplainable, which is to say, paranormal. The best that we can do is find something we can't explain. To take a step further, calling legitimate paranormal phenomena a ghost is a very big leap of faith. Some individuals don't seem to be able to comprehend this--or don't care. To them, if it's paranormal, it must be a spirit or ghost.
With adequate skill and research, we may be able to label something paranormal Skeptics will still discount it, but, to simply call something a ghost because you can't explain it leaves you wide open to skeptics. You may be able to determine that something is paranormal, but you'll never be able to determine that something is a ghost.
So, why does this occur? I believe this usually arises from some combination of the two simple reasons I've listed below.
1. Due to inexperience with investigating and equipment
2. Due to wanting to believe in ghosts
Instances of faked or misrepresented "evidence" on the Web abound. I'm not talking about 'plasma' or 'light' anomalies identified as possibly paranormal by investigators. Without a great degree of expertise in photographic analysis and competent investigating--and even when these two factors are present--often you can't say for sure if something is paranormal. To skeptics, everything is a reflection, and to some paranormal investigators, everything is a ghost. Often there may be no obvious answer and one can never say for sure, so who's right?
Regardless of my personal beliefs, I feel that I have an obligation to be a skeptic. Others more readily apply the paranormal label to something that's not easily explained. In my five years as an investigator, I have captured only one or two pieces of evidence that I can call paranormal with any amount of certainty.
Competent paranormal investigators attempt to rule out all rational causes for an anomaly--a process often termed 'debunking.' What's left may just be unexplainable, which is to say, paranormal. The best that we can do is find something we can't explain. To take a step further, calling legitimate paranormal phenomena a ghost is a very big leap of faith. Some individuals don't seem to be able to comprehend this--or don't care. To them, if it's paranormal, it must be a spirit or ghost.
With adequate skill and research, we may be able to label something paranormal Skeptics will still discount it, but, to simply call something a ghost because you can't explain it leaves you wide open to skeptics. You may be able to determine that something is paranormal, but you'll never be able to determine that something is a ghost. Many groups and individuals fall in the inexperienced and want of belief categories, and examples of such groups are just a few mouse clicks away. However, there is another type of behavior, a behavior I consider more misleading, and may even amount to outright self-promotion using misidentified or manufactured evidence.
1. Specific manufacturing/altering of evidence in order to gain recognition, monetary, and/or in an attempt to become famous.
Say, for example, you owned a hotel and wanted to drum up business. Manufacturing your own first-hand accounts and evidence makes perfect sense. Why not?
Gain a reputation as a haunted hotel and I would hazard that your business will probably increase. The few customers that would stay away from such locations are probably outnumbered by the ones that would come in droves. And, you could market your inn to ghost hunters.
During the slow months, you could contact ghost hunters from across the country and encourage them to come and stay in your "haunted" hotel. You could also host ghost hunter conferences. Though a bit duplicitous, this can be considered a good marketing strategy. No one knows if ghosts exist or not, so its not exactly false advertising.
Gain a reputation as a haunted hotel and I would hazard that your business will probably increase. The few customers that would stay away from such locations are probably outnumbered by the ones that would come in droves. And, you could market your inn to ghost hunters.
During the slow months, you could contact ghost hunters from across the country and encourage them to come and stay in your "haunted" hotel. You could also host ghost hunter conferences. Though a bit duplicitous, this can be considered a good marketing strategy. No one knows if ghosts exist or not, so its not exactly false advertising.
But, if you claimed to be a paranormal investigator and owned a haunted hotel, and fabricated evidence, well, that makes you pretty low in my eyes. It becomes a conflict of interest at this point. You would have a vested interest in fabricating evidence for monetary gain. And simultaneously being a purported paranormal investigator, you would be doing the field a disservice.
Now we come to the relative few--ghost hunters who manufacture or alter evidence for their own recognition. This may be unintentional, but also may be clearly intentional. Exhibiting a picture of an easily debunked reflection or camera anomaly, and saying "We weren't able to find an explanation for this phenomena so it might be a ghost. We'll leave it up to you to decide," is very misleading. Other open ended questions such as "What do you think caused that? or "Do you think something was trying to make contact?" also fall into this category.
The group didn't try very hard to debunk whatever phenomena supposedly occured, and even if they did, they are still implying that perhaps a ghost is responsible.Remember that you are representing yourself as someone with a specific area of expertise, but by presenting things in this fashion, you are leading people to a conclusion upon which there is no basis. What sounds like a logical line of reasoning is not. You are leading people down a path for your own benefit. You ar
en't really leaving it up to the person to decide on their own. To top it all off, you're not taking a stand either, which implies you are either incompetent, simply unsure, and/or unwilling to expose yourself to potential criticism.Presentations of pieces of evidence like this--and the misleading open-ended conclusions or insinuations--may mislead the public to mis-identifying easily identifiable phenomena as paranormal.
Finally,there are those people who alter or outright manufacture evidence for their own gain. Without being specific, I have encountered this behavior first-hand. The investigators added something to the purported evidence. It was probably in good faith--an attempt to determine how the phenomena was created. The problem was when the subsequent evidence was presented as a whole. It was labeled a paranormal phenomena, and even worse, it was clearly stated that the phenomena was created by a ghost!
Now how could anyone know that with any degree of certainty, and why would they present falsified evidence and proclaim it was created by a ghost? Simple, for recognition, and due to an overzealous "want of belief," as well as do to inexperience with paranormal investigations and the rigors of handling and documenting evidence.
So, here we have a piece of evidence which may or may not have been created by a paranormal phenomena that was altered by the addition of further stimuli created by the investigators. In my eyes, this potential piece of evidence was ruined by the investigators. In addition, the subsequent presentation of the evidence without mention of the portions of the data that were altered by the investigator leads me to one conclusion: this is an inexperienced and overzealous investigator at the least. At the worst, this is an individual that has no problem manufacturing evidence in an attempt to gain recognition. Either way, I have to disregard all future evidence that is presented, assuming everything that is presented has possibly been tampered with. If a scientist conducted research in this way, they would be discredited and their reputation would be ruined.
This is something beyond just enlarging a picture or amplifying an audio file. It's a clear and conscious manufacturing and misrepresentation of potential evidence, and then shaping it in such a way for personal gain.There are a lot of mistakes to be made in the investigation of the paranormal, one of which is to exhibit behavior that is damaging to the field at large. You have to keep a close eye out for these types of behaviors, and I firmly believe that--when recognized--people should be called on it. Unfortunately, in my experience, the exact people who are likely to exhibit this behavior, are the ones least likely to engage in any type of constructive dialogue.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Start a Career in Ghost Hunting!; by Bobby Elgee, Lead Investigator
Over the last five years as a paranormal investigator I have attempted to answer many questions dealing with the paranormal. I certainly do not consider myself an expert by any means.
Since some of these questions have dealt with areas in which I feel I have some competence--cognitive psychology, mental illness, brain disorders, vision--I feel that I have been able to adequately address them. If I don't feel that I have the background necessary to answer a specific question, I will refer the individual to people who do.
There is one question that has been repeatedly asked which I found surprising. I would say, the majority--but not all--of the people that have asked me this question have been teenagers.
The question is always some variation of...
"I've decided that I want to be a ghost hunter, you know for a job. I've very certain about this, do you know how I do this?"
Even with my relatively limited knowledge, I was willing to tackle this question.
Since some of these questions have dealt with areas in which I feel I have some competence--cognitive psychology, mental illness, brain disorders, vision--I feel that I have been able to adequately address them. If I don't feel that I have the background necessary to answer a specific question, I will refer the individual to people who do.
There is one question that has been repeatedly asked which I found surprising. I would say, the majority--but not all--of the people that have asked me this question have been teenagers.
The question is always some variation of...
"I've decided that I want to be a ghost hunter, you know for a job. I've very certain about this, do you know how I do this?"
Even with my relatively limited knowledge, I was willing to tackle this question.
I can only assume that the recent popularity of such shows as Ghost Hunters, Most Haunted, Paranormal State, and others has lead to the belief--at least in the people asking the question--that being a paranormal investigator is a legitimate career path.
So, I tell them with no uncertainty, that Ghost Hunting is probably NOT a viable career choice.
I believe that the popularity of this field touches on the basis of human existence...consider the question being asked; Is there an afterlife? Of course everyone is interested. But, lets take a step back and consider the draw as a career.
So, I tell them with no uncertainty, that Ghost Hunting is probably NOT a viable career choice.
I believe that the popularity of this field touches on the basis of human existence...consider the question being asked; Is there an afterlife? Of course everyone is interested. But, lets take a step back and consider the draw as a career.
You get to travel, you get to go into cool places, it appears to be a relatively easy activity that is accessible to everyone, and you may get to be on television and become famous! There are some basic human needs being met here, and being thought of as cool because of your job is something we all could live with. Who doesn't want recognition and to be looked up to by their peers?
So, we find ourselves easily understanding some of the motivations for seeking a career as a ghost hunter: Prestige, recognition, possible fame, working toward finding the answer of one of the most important questions of life and death.
So, we find ourselves easily understanding some of the motivations for seeking a career as a ghost hunter: Prestige, recognition, possible fame, working toward finding the answer of one of the most important questions of life and death.
But...
Realize that some of the most respected people in the field have been doing this for years, and most of don't have their own television show or perhaps make a significant amount of money doing it. People labor for years to gain a level of expertise in a subject matter. Sudden stars like Jason and Grant of TAPs have been conducting paranormal investigations for years, yet, their primary careers are (or were) as plumbers.
The people whom I consider the most respected and well-known paranormal investigators are individuals like Troy Taylor, Jon Zaffis, and Lloyd Auerbach. I am not conversant on the educational and career backgrounds of these individuals, but I do believe that they are able to make somewhat of a living working in the paranormal field. None of them have a famous TV show, but all are accomplished authors, lecturers, and teachers willing to share their knowledge. Mr. Taylor--with the well-known mid-western sensibility to tell it like it is--specifically says that he eschews celebrity, having chosen
Realize that some of the most respected people in the field have been doing this for years, and most of don't have their own television show or perhaps make a significant amount of money doing it. People labor for years to gain a level of expertise in a subject matter. Sudden stars like Jason and Grant of TAPs have been conducting paranormal investigations for years, yet, their primary careers are (or were) as plumbers.
The people whom I consider the most respected and well-known paranormal investigators are individuals like Troy Taylor, Jon Zaffis, and Lloyd Auerbach. I am not conversant on the educational and career backgrounds of these individuals, but I do believe that they are able to make somewhat of a living working in the paranormal field. None of them have a famous TV show, but all are accomplished authors, lecturers, and teachers willing to share their knowledge. Mr. Taylor--with the well-known mid-western sensibility to tell it like it is--specifically says that he eschews celebrity, having chosen
not to go that way long ago.
In my eyes, these folks are the giants, without which shows like Ghost Hunters would not exist.
Now we come to money. How does one earn money being a paranormal investigator?
In my eyes, these folks are the giants, without which shows like Ghost Hunters would not exist.
Now we come to money. How does one earn money being a paranormal investigator?
While some investigators charge for their services, I would say that most do not. Groups often accept donations, even going as far as to set up a Paypal account on their Web site (which I consider particularly tacky by the way). Our group accepts donations, and though we've received a few, they certainly haven't covered our expenses.
So, where does that leave us?
People that are making money in this field are authors, run tour groups and give conferences, teach classes, and, perhaps, earn money from Web site advertising or selling ghost hunting equipment. Some also may offer paranormal marketing for businesses--something we provide for free. The rarest are the very small percentage of people who have a television show and/or act as consultants to the entertainment industry.
People that are making money in this field are authors, run tour groups and give conferences, teach classes, and, perhaps, earn money from Web site advertising or selling ghost hunting equipment. Some also may offer paranormal marketing for businesses--something we provide for free. The rarest are the very small percentage of people who have a television show and/or act as consultants to the entertainment industry.
At least as far as I can tell.
I should note that I have been contacted by three different television producers over the last 5 years (via e-mail ) looking for people to audition for new paranormal-based television shows. Pretty cool, but I'm not an accomplished or well-known investigator, so I would hazard that I was one of 1000's of people that they contacted. Sure, they may have liked my amateurish web site, and perhaps saw my picture, but I assume that these opportunities are very rare.
Visit the International Ghost Hunters Society (Dave and Sharon Oester) at www.ghostweb.com or Mass Paranormal at www.massparanormal.net if you want examples of people that are probably able to finance their time spent doing paranormal investigations via their activities. I respect both these groups, and their Web sites are certainly worth a look.
I should note that I have been contacted by three different television producers over the last 5 years (via e-mail ) looking for people to audition for new paranormal-based television shows. Pretty cool, but I'm not an accomplished or well-known investigator, so I would hazard that I was one of 1000's of people that they contacted. Sure, they may have liked my amateurish web site, and perhaps saw my picture, but I assume that these opportunities are very rare.
Visit the International Ghost Hunters Society (Dave and Sharon Oester) at www.ghostweb.com or Mass Paranormal at www.massparanormal.net if you want examples of people that are probably able to finance their time spent doing paranormal investigations via their activities. I respect both these groups, and their Web sites are certainly worth a look.
There are many ways to earn money, but you don't do it being an investigator, you generally have to do it by one of the ways I've mentioned in the previous paragraph.
So, where does that leave you for a career as a ghost hunter?
I advise people that ghost hunting is a hobby. If you can find a way to earn enough revenue to finance your hobby through donations, you are a successful ghost hunter. If you can build a popular paranormal web site and earn money through advertising and selling products on line, you are a successful ghost hunter. If you can earn revenue from teaching a workshop, you are a successful ghost hunter.
So, where does that leave you for a career as a ghost hunter?
I advise people that ghost hunting is a hobby. If you can find a way to earn enough revenue to finance your hobby through donations, you are a successful ghost hunter. If you can build a popular paranormal web site and earn money through advertising and selling products on line, you are a successful ghost hunter. If you can earn revenue from teaching a workshop, you are a successful ghost hunter.
But, you better pick something else for a stable long-term career.
If you are very, very serious about the pursuit of the paranormal, there is an actual career path for you as a psychologist. You would need to start by earning your bachelors degree in psychology, they pursue a graduate degree (doctorate) in parapsychology and then, probably get a job teaching at a university. Technically, its not a career as a ghost hunter, but you'll more then likely make enough money to finance your investigations. Ghost hunting won't be a job, it would still be a hobby--like it is for me and the other 99% of ghost hunters out there. Of course, you'll be extremely qualified to actually conduct investigations.
So, for all of you career track ghost hunters out there, good luck!
Does anyone have any other ideas? I'd sure like to make enough money ghost hunting to pay my mortgage.
Bobby Elgee; Lead Investigator
If you are very, very serious about the pursuit of the paranormal, there is an actual career path for you as a psychologist. You would need to start by earning your bachelors degree in psychology, they pursue a graduate degree (doctorate) in parapsychology and then, probably get a job teaching at a university. Technically, its not a career as a ghost hunter, but you'll more then likely make enough money to finance your investigations. Ghost hunting won't be a job, it would still be a hobby--like it is for me and the other 99% of ghost hunters out there. Of course, you'll be extremely qualified to actually conduct investigations.
So, for all of you career track ghost hunters out there, good luck!
Does anyone have any other ideas? I'd sure like to make enough money ghost hunting to pay my mortgage.
Bobby Elgee; Lead Investigator
Thursday, April 23, 2009
100% Brain Usage and ESP Abilities; by Bobby Elgee, Lead Investigator
It is a well-known myth that is oft repeated: "We only use 10% of our brain." This is simply not true, and people who perpetuate this myth are simply repeating something they have heard.
The truth is:
We all use 100% of our brain when considering the functional structure of this amazing organ. We may not use our capabilities to their fullest potential, but this argument can apply to almost any skill. We aren't talking about skills and practice, we are talking about the myth that we have some vast resevoir of undeveloped mental capacities.
There is research that shows that certain phenomena such as NDE's (near death experiences) and religious epiphanies are located in specific brain structures, and of course, the activation of these areas in such a way to produce these experiences does occur, albeit rarely and due to unique combinations of environmental and internal stimuli. But, we all have these parts of our brains, parts of which are active on a daily basis.
| Consider the following reasons generally put forth by evolutionary biologists, scientists, neurologists, neuropsychologists, and their ilk. For an extensive discussion of the evolutionary biology of the brain, read Broca's Brain, by Carl Sagan. | |
1. If we only used 10% of our brain, we wouldn't have the other 90%. Speaking to the accepted theory of evolution, if we didn't use it, we don't need it, and thus, probably wouldn't have it. 2. If we only used 10% of our brain, we could sustain a major brain injury and bounce back like nothing happened. Having worked in the field of brain injury rehabilitation, specifically with cognition, I can tell you this--no one suffers a severe brain injury and bounces back to normal. This relates to paranormal activity and ESP as follows: The fact that some people--psychics, paranormal "experts," and the like--put forth this argument to support the possibility of paranormal perception, i.e ESP, is totally illogical. You generally won't hear a competent parapsychologist put forth this argument, because they've probably had some background education in brain structure and function. These abilities, IF they are real, ALREADY exist, and CAN BE developed, just like any skill. A psychic--or anyone making the statement that 'we only use 10% of our brains'--and acting like they are coming from a position of knowledge is self-serving, false, and at best, a VERY weak pseudo theory not based on existing facts. It also damages the original premise of the existence of ESP. The fact that sensitivity to the paranormal or ESP ability resides in some part of the brain that we don't use flies in the face of all existing research. But, the good news is that there is some research that clearly demonstrates that humans may inherently possess these abilities, and that they can be developed. Some of us are naturally better at or have a predisposition in regards to these abilities, as with any skill. Being a ghost hunter and a skeptic, as well has having an extensive background in neuroscience, this is what I believe. But of course, you can believe whatever you want. I do encourage everyone to do their research before perpetuating a myth. | |
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