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The Blue Ghost Tunnel: Making of a Legend Safety, Security and the Future

Safety, Security and the Future

On my last visit to the tunnel with several members of NAGS, and under the authority of the St. Lawrence Seaway, we were in disbelief at the state of the tunnel. It had more water seeping down its walls and dripping into pools at our feet then at any other time. The stones were eroding under the constant pressure of the ice build-up. We concluded that the tunnel was generally unsafe and agreed that it would not exist much longer under these conditions.

But the tunnel remains still, holding strong, a testament to the engineering and quality of the workmanship. Visitors hoping to experience the paranormal keep visiting and others with alcohol and drugs continue to rendezvous for a quick thrill.

The Seaway Authority believes the tunnel is unsafe and in 2010 constructed a wire fence around the property and mounted security cameras. They hoped to deter visitors to the tunnel, but admit it is nearly impossible because of its remote location. They have been the defendant in three separate lawsuits where individuals have been injured while on Seaway Property.

There have been talks of sealing the tunnel completely, with tons of dirt and cement, as has been done with other tunnels in the area. But these talks have been ongoing for the last five years and budget concerns seem to get in the way of implementing the measure.

Recently, authorities had to prosecute several individuals for trespassing on the land as they were conducting “ghost tours” of the tunnel. The tours have been canceled.

Proposals to open up the area as park land with historical markers about the Welland Canal are still being debated. Would this clean up the tunnel? Would it allow visitors to safely visit? Perhaps.

Discussions about cleaning up the area, creating parkland with extensive pathways, and placing historical markers on the land began as far back as 1979 with Greenwald et al, The Welland Canals, Historical Planning and Research Branch, and the Ontario Ministry of Culture and Recreation. It is interesting to note that nowhere in the documentation do the words “haunted” or “ghost” receive printed mentioned.

Recently, The Region used Shadows of Niagara as a reference to determine whether or not exploiting sites such as The Blue Ghost Tunnel might be beneficial in bringing additional tourist dollars to the Region. Talks about opening up the area as parkland are once again making the rounds.

Future access to the tunnel is certainly in jeopardy as additional security fencing, cameras and lights have been added to the roadway approaching the tunnel. For those interested in the paranormal, this location may soon disappear. The tunnel will always, no matter what its condition, remain a mystery and the legends that it spawned will continue to grow and develop.

The Blue Ghost Tunnel: Making of a Legend Paranormal Investigators Visit The Tunnel

Paranormal Investigators Visit the Blue Ghost Tunnel

Russ' goal was to attract as much attention to the tunnel as possible, either for promotional purposes or to obtain a different level of investigation, and he began asking other paranormal groups and individuals to join him on his quest.

Hamilton Paranormal, a very active group in the late 90s and early 2000s, decided to visit the tunnel and, with directions and information about the haunting provided by Russ, they made their way to the location. Previous to their visit, they researched the tunnel, the area, and the historical deaths and tragedies in the area that may have been the essence of the hauntings Russ was experiencing.

The investigations revealed similar, yet not as dramatic, encounters with the spirits of the tunnel. Hamilton Paranormal made several visits to the tunnel, all of which produced results, and online chatter about the tunnel.

Throughout the investigations Hamilton Paranormal presented what they believed was photographic evidence of spirits manifesting before the camera in the form of ectoplasm and orbs. It is unclear if they remain convinced of the authenticity of the photos. However, to this day, other paranormal enthusiasts have taken the photos at face value and still maintain the photographs are proof-positive of the hauntings at the tunnel. Others are unconvinced.

On Facebook and other social media sites, individuals and groups post these photos and discuss what they see in the mist that seemingly manifested before the camera. What the armchair paranormal investigators may not realize is that the photos can be recreated, not only within the tunnel, but in any particular location—haunted or not.

Orbapalooza

Orbs are pale and circular anomalies that have been linked with the paranormal. Orbs can be of any color, but are typically off white. They can be any shape, but are usually circular.

They can appear crisp or fuzzy, in isolation, multiples or clusters. Orbs are seen on still photographs (usually from digital cameras). With the mass distribution and consumption of digital cameras Orbs became evidence of “spirits” and paranormal activity.

Investigators, including myself, believed they were capturing a ghost on film. Orb photos within the tunnel were and still are extremely popular—we have orbs in groups, loner orbs, red “evil” orbs, blue orbs, moving orbs, “sad” orbs and the list goes on...but the truth is what we have is a reflection of dust, water, moisture and insects reflecting light from the close proximity of the flash back into the camera lens, causing an orb anomaly to appear.

Orbs are natural, and are not paranormal. But, still today, the orb photographs present themselves as evidence that the tunnel is haunted.

Ectoplasm/Ectomist

There are countless photos of ectoplasm, seemingly manifesting within the tunnel. Ectoplasm is a term originally coined by Charles Richet to denote a substance or spiritual energy “exteriorized” by physical mediums. Ectoplasm is said to be associated with the formation of spirits, but since World War II reports of ectoplasmic phenomena have declined and many psychical researchers doubt whether genuine cases ever existed.

However, the photographs that reveal “ectomist” at the tunnel, which have been circulated on the Internet as proof-positive of ghostly manifestations, in reality show one of two things:

1. Breath, or
2. Cigarette Smoke

The majority of the ectomist photographs were time-stamped in the fall or winter when the temperature inside the tunnel can be very cold. As the photographer exhales during the photographic process the flash bounces off the condensation of the breathe causing eerie and instantaneous photographs that somewhat resemble the historical photos we see of ectomist.

Cigarette smoke is another culprit in the creation of ectomist photographs. Cigarette smoke swirls around the camera unseen by the naked eye in the dark tunnel, but when one takes a photograph the flash bounces off the smoke, revealing what some consider a ghost. In many photographs of paranormal investigators we see cigarettes in their hands.

The bright white images are common among BGT enthusiast and many claim that they see faces, objects and animals within the swirl of breath and smoke. The vast majority of paranormal researchers have dismissed these photographs and have offered explanations ad nauseam on message forums, Facebook Groups and other web sites, but droves of photographers, paranormal enthusiasts and the like still believe, without a shadow of a doubt, that these photographs are proof-positive of the paranormal.

They claim that the photos must be that of a ghost because of the images they reveal. Some claim to see canine heads, faces of demons, butterflies, hammers, winged gremlins, grandfather clocks, locomotives, witches, cats, rocking chairs, recliners, Kirby Vacuums, Justin Beiber and images of Jesus Christ. These believers do not believe that the images they see may be the result of pareidolia.

Pareidolia is a psychological phenomenon involving a vague and random stimulus (often an image or sound) being perceived as significant. Common examples include seeing images of animals or faces in clouds, the man in the moon, and hearing hidden messages on records played in reverse. Pareidolia is a type of apophenia.

I believe that the investigators with Hamilton Paranormal currently do not believe that these photos are those of spirits or ghosts, but their web site remains a key attraction for those interested in the BGT. The web site has not been updated in a very long time and the early documentation of Hamilton Paranormal's investigations, as well as their photography, add to the legend and misinformation of The Blue Ghost Tunnel.

In 2005, not wanting to miss out on publicity, a ghost tour group from Hamilton, Ontario ventured to the tunnel:

Haunted Hamilton says “It's Haunted!”

The dark history of the Canal and the accident combined to make this place hauntingly intriguing.

Haunted Hamilton was just a baby when a paranormal explorer named Russ made his way to the Merritton Tunnel (Blue Ghost Tunnel).

According to the TGHRS (paranormal group out of Toronto), Russ was given directions to the Screaming Tunnel, but got lost and somehow stumbled his way to Merritton. He would return many times to investigate and take pictures of this historic find. During one of these investigations he captured a blue ghostly mist which would give Russ the inspiration for the now famous name, “The Blue Ghost Tunnel”.

The reputation started to grow and Haunted Hamilton wasn’t going to sit back and not be a part of it. Investigation nights were setup with our resident psychics and friends from two other paranormal groups.

We knew of the train crash, blue mist, and reports of a ghost dog that had been seen around the entrance of the tunnel. This was intriguing, but it was the tunnel’s reputation that brought us there for two nighttime investigations.

The investigations were quiet and uneventful; with only one experience I personally took part in - the sighting of the ghost dog.

We were halfway in when a member of our team noticed something walking back and forth at the entrance. A few of us (including me) ran as fast as we could to get closer, prove the ghost dog was real and maybe get a picture. And as we got close enough to confirm, we saw nothing. Whatever it was had vanished.

That was the “report” that Haunted Hamilton, a ghost tour company out of Hamilton, Ontario formulated. They claimed that The Blue Ghost Tunnel was haunted by a ghost dog, similar to the one Russ had wrote about in his online journals.

The droves of online visitors to Haunted Hamilton's popular web site read about the ghost dog, and for the crowd hanging out at Haunted Hamilton it was popular belief that the Blue Ghost was in fact a Blue Ghost Dog.

The rumor of a ghost dog weaved its way into the fabric of The Blue Ghost Tunnel once again thanks to the imagination of Russ and the hype of Haunted Hamilton.

Later Haunted Hamilton convinced viewers of a Creepy Canada episode that the Blue Ghost Tunnel was extremely haunted and that they had witnessed paranormal activity.

Recently, however, Haunted Hamilton came to the conclusion that their previous report of witnessing a ghost dog and their experiences while filming the Creepy Canada episode were, well, not umm, anything. In fact, Daniel Cumerlato, founder and operator of Haunted Hamilton, says the tunnel isn't haunted after all and they knew it all along.

Here is a recent statement and article written by Daniel Cumerlato of Haunted Hamilton concerning The Blue Ghost Tunnel. My personal comments follow.

Dear paranormal enthusiast…

Ignore The Blue Ghost Tunnel!

By Daniel Cumerlato

So why do we shun the tunnel today at a time when so many people are talking about it?

First off, we are unable to guarantee the safety of those going. The tunnel is falling apart. The space has always been flooded because of the supporting stones violently leaking from above. The overall tunnel may be sinking into the ground and it’s possible the structure could collapse. The previous statement is a personal viewpoint; something we would never expect the landowners to admit due to liability concerns. However before and after pictures would prove something’s not right.

Along with the unsafe tunnel, there’s the dark, steep and rocky decent and the abandoned Canal Lock located along side of the main path. The Lock is an over 50 foot drop and has little to no safety fences.

Not to mention the reports of a nasty element hanging around the area at night. People have been threatened and many cars vandalized while sitting in the make-shift parking lot.

And if that wasn’t enough… we find it hard to believe this place is truly haunted.

After the many years of random investigations, this location lacks results. As with many spots, there are orbs, strange sounds (and ghost dogs), but overall the results are insubstantial.

If we believe energy, experience and tragedy is what creates ghostly activity, then the Blue Ghost Tunnel would rank a mere 2 out of 10. One train accident causing the on-site death of one man, and the eventual death of another many kilometers away… a few other tragedies which didn’t actually happen in a tunnel with only 39 years of actual use, would not put this high up on the paranormal scale.

There is a submerged cemetery on the flooded end of the Tunnel. We at Haunted Hamilton feel this is a terrible disrespect, and is a huge reason for building up this historic landmark, but is no reason for ghosts.

The image of the Blue Ghost Tunnel made it perfect for legends and fictitious stories which have gotten out of hand. This has caused the legitimate and respected history / ghost hunters to run for the hills.

The Tunnel has become a location for drinking, partying and scaring girls, but not investigation.

Every history lover should see The Merritton Tunnel (Blue Ghost Tunnel) because this is a space frozen in history which may not be around forever. But if you go at night you’re missing the best parts.

Go during the day instead and see the Tunnel in all its glory. Take in the abandoned Canal Lock with the rusted out Ford at the bottom (How the hell did that get there!) and the calming hike down the rocky hill, ending at an amazing monument to Canadian engineering.

You will not miss anything ghostly, because if it hasn’t happened in over a decade, chances are it’s not starting with you.

Save yourself the hassle, the danger, the damaged car and possibly damaged friends, and go when the sun shines. After all, if there are ghosts at The Blue Ghost Tunnel… they’ll find you.”

Surprise. Haunted Hamilton says “The tunnel isn't haunted!” First, Daniel Cumerlato begins by telling the reader that the tunnel is sinking. In over 130 years the limestone rocks have yet to sink into the earth, one millimeter. This is a complete fabrication making no sense and one wonders where Daniel received his structural engineering degree.

Next, he explains that all the investigations conducted by the likes of Hamilton Paranormal, The Niagara Amateur Ghost Seekers (NAGS), Niagara Amateur Spirit Seekers, The Shadows Project and dozens upon dozens of other reputable paranormal groups and individuals were simply random and produced no results.

Again, this is pure nonsense. The investigations were not random, and it appears that the tunnel often produces results.

He then ranks The Blue Ghost Tunnel on a Paranormal Scale of 2 out of 10. A pretty low score for someplace he once was touting as “700 feet of Hell on Earth!” and describing on paranormal forums as “scary” and “very haunted.”

Then he goes on to describe a submerged cemetery on the flooded end of the tunnel. This clearly shows that Haunted Hamilton did not do any significant research and simply believed online rumors, taking them in as fact.

Let us rewind a bit and be witness to one of Haunted Hamilton's previous encounters with The Blue Ghost Tunnel.

700 Feet of Hell on Earth!

During the early 2000s, producers of Creepy Canada, a new Canadian paranormal show, began researching possible haunted locations across Canada. In the first seasons they had exhausted locations in Ontario that would allow filming and were looking for new opportunities.

The show featured recreations of haunted encounters at various locations with deplorable F-grade acting, false histories and script-written hauntings. The show was scoffed at by paranormal groups as misleading and exploitative.

However, the producers of Creepy Canada had read about The Blue Ghost Tunnel and proceeded to ask paranormal researchers and groups to be involved in the filming of the episode. Individuals and groups with a shred of dignity, not only to themselves but to the field of study, turned down the offer because they did not want to be associated with the show.

However, a ghost-tour operating group, who posed as “paranormal researchers” named Haunted Hamilton took the bait and were showcased on The Blue Ghost Tunnel episode.

Creepy Canada Transcript:

Promo:

“Up next! Paranormal researchers investigate 700ft of Hell on Earth!”

Narrator

“In St. Catharines, Ontario, paranormal researchers and outdoor enthusiasts alike have discovered a previously undiscovered haunted location. The 700 foot passage is known as The Blue Ghost Tunnel. Though the tunnel is off the beaten path, those that venture there are rarely disappointed. A hiker who had heard stories of the mysterious tunnel decided to investigate for herself. As she made her way through the dark interior she heard strange moaning sounds. She told herself it was the wind. The she saw a misty blue apparition moving in front of her. The shape disappeared and at the same moment, inexplicably her flashlight died. She knew she had just encountered the spirit of the Blue Ghost Tunnel.”

On Camera Host

“Serious paranormal investigators are willing to travel through the darkest depths and over the most challenging terrain to solve many of life's unexplained mysteries. This passion sent one group on a quest into the terrifying interior of the legendary Blue Ghost Tunnel in St. Catharines, Ontario, where a 700 foot passageway brought them face-to-face with the unknown.

Jeff Ostrander “Historian”

“When you go into the tunnel it’s a different world and it’s like, uh, you get eerie feelings, feelings of being watched, maybe looked over. People have seen strange apparitions in the tunnel, sounds of footsteps, uh, whispering that I've personally heard inside the tunnel. Photographs that are strange and sometimes unexplainable. In 1903 there was a fatal rail collision at the tunnel, umm, at the west end. Trains collided head-on and both engineers were killed. The train wreck, umm, very well may have something to do with the hauntings here.

Narrator

“Another hiker came upon the tunnel by chance. He saw a blue spectral figure whirling at the entrance. It moved inside and vanished. Curious, he followed. Many paranormal investigators feel the blue apparition is not the spirit of one particular individual, but the manifestation of the many trapped souls of the tunnel trying to remind travelers of the tragic accident that took their lives over a hundred years earlier. Suddenly, a strange light appeared aimed directly at the hiker. He swore for a brief moment he thought a ghostly train passed through the dark tunnel. He quickly turned to leave wishing he had heeded the warning of the mysterious blue apparition.

A paranormal research group volunteered to perform an investigation of The Blue Ghost Tunnel. They brought two experienced psychic-mediums and an array of night-vision cameras and electronic detection equipment. The mediums sensed the spirits of the two engineers that had died although they were not told about the train wreck prior to entering.”

Psychic #1

“Do you get anything about an accident?”

Psychic #2

“I do get the sensations of those two men. One is bleeding on his face. The other one has blood on his outfit, his clothes.”

Investigator

“I just had my third flashlight… the bulb has burnt out. I've been having problems with my infrared thermostat tonight for some reason. I've had two camera batteries go dead on me and that doesn't usually happen. Supposedly spirits drain power from batteries and until this point in time I have never experienced that.

Psychic #1

“This is my first night using this, uhh, little talisman. When I come in here with it though, it gives a very negative reaction. It’s spinning counterclockwise.”

Psychic #2

“This is similar to what Kate was using with her talisman. It picks up the energy, umm, the, of the spirit. It’s definitely not a happy energy. I asked if the spirits here were happy and it’s saying no they aren't happy. There is a sadness definitely in the air.”

Psychic #1

“I was just sitting here by myself because it is easier getting a reading on your EMF reader and your light was turned off and then I was hearing screaming and I was guessing there were kids out there playing but then something else started, a long high-pitched cry and turning around here you’re asking if you want to go further into the tunnel and I am getting a great big no. Stuff is going to start happening as soon as we go down there. They are not happy that we are here this late.”

Psychic #2

“There is a banging that we've been hearing down at the end of the tunnel and umm it has stopped for a while until we started talking about approaching this area again and, umm, as we got closer it started to, umm, bang again as if it was telling us yes, yes, come down this way.”

Psychic #1

“There is something else down here. It is not human. There is some kind of energy that comes down here at night like I said this is its spot and it’s rushing through the tunnel. I see this big black thing, ugly looking face flying through the tunnel, screaming, running right at us.

Stephanie Culamerao of Haunted Hamilton

“Coming into this place, umm, I don't think any of us expected it to be like this. So much stuff has been happening tonight and, umm, a lot of our equipment has been going wonky, umm, Kate and Michelle have been feeling a lot of weird things in here, umm, I'm personally, uh, am not psychic and I'm feeling uncomfortable in here, umm, it’s just really odd.”

Narrator

“Though the group did not make psychical contact with the spirits the mediums psychic impressions and the unusual photographs taken that night offer compelling evidence of paranormal activity in The Blue Ghost Tunnel. Whether the entities are the ghosts of those victims killed in the railway disaster or some metaphysical energy left behind by this tragic crash is unknown. Perhaps future investigations will shed some light on this unexplained mystery.”

Post Notes:

After the original air-dates and years of re-runs of the Creepy Canada episode, Haunted Hamilton and those involved were chastised for the obvious fakery and the amateur investigation of the Blue Ghost Tunnel.

Haunted Hamilton admitted that the time stamps of the video were changed by producers to enhance the dramatization of the episode. More glaring and eye-opening is that they admitted that the evidence was not real. Haunted Hamilton puts the blame on crafty producers while the production staff of Creepy Canada have said that they received all the photographic evidence from Haunted Hamilton.

Jeff Ostrander, the episode's “Historian” also was questioned about his involvement and he said that the camera operators simply put the camera on him and asked him questions and that he either forgot the information or did not know the correct information because he was nervous on camera. He also said that he did not know he was going to be labeled as an historian until he viewed the episode.

According to the show's producers, both psychics who were involved in the episode were told of the history of the tunnel by Haunted Hamilton and also by the production staff prior to and during filming.

In addition, a simple Internet search would have yielded hundreds of results about the tunnel's history and haunted legends and both psychics were active on the Internet and within paranormal message forums where the hot topic was The Blue Ghost Tunnel.

Later, Niagara News reporter Petr Cihacek interviewed The Seaway Authority about the trespassing and dangers of the tunnel. The Seaway Authority put direct blame on both Haunted Hamilton and Creepy Canada for exposing the tunnel to a mass audience and increasing the likelihood of a serious injury or death.

Both Haunted Hamilton and Creepy Canada deny they had trespassed on private property and that they are responsible for exposing the tunnel on National Television.

Regardless, countless viewers have endured the episode and the misinformation and “psychic impressions” are feeding a part of the legend.

Included in the back peddling article of Haunted Hamilton are further lies and misinformation, feeding more and more into the fabric of The Blue Ghost Tunnel's legend. 

Review copies of The Blue Ghost Tunnel Making of a Legend are now available.

Review copies of The Blue Ghost Tunnel Making of a Legend are now available.

Please contact johnjsavoie@hotmail.com to request your copy. In order to receive an advanced review copy you must show that you have written book reviews and have a related web site.

In paranormal circles across Canada and the United States, the hauntings at The Blue Ghost Tunnel (BGT) frequent the conversation. Often referred to as "The Most Haunted Location" in Canada or a place where you are guaranteed activity, the tunnel is synonymous with historical haunted locations across North America.

 I've been investigation the tunnel as a possible haunt for the past 14 years as a solo investigator, with The Niagara Amateur Ghost Seekers and with members of The Shadows Project. In the late 1990s the tunnel, previously known under various descriptions became popularized as The Blue Ghost Tunnel, the name coined by a young paranormal investigator who is said to have witnessed a "Blue Misty Ghost".

A few years of intense interest on the Internet, multiple investigations and visits by paranormal enthusiasts prompted the once popular TV program Creepy Canada to film at the location. Together with a Ghost Tour Group Haunted Hamilton, questionable psychics and an impromtu "historian" of the tunnel, they exposed the location to tens of thousands of viewers solidifying the legend and suspected haunt. The episode depicted the tunnel as "700 ft of Hell on Earth!" As a result of their illegal trespassing and exposure of the location, the site became explosively popular and thousands of visitors each year come to visit the tunnel prompting the Seaway Authority to attempt to secure the location. Even with extensive security, people trek out to discover the BGT for themselves...

But who really discovered this long, lost tunnel? What is the truth behind the hauntings and experiences at the tunnel? Is the tunnel an Urban Legend, conjured-up by a young wannabe author? Are we simply developing our own experiences using our own minds? Or is the tunnel really haunted? And by whom? I decided to write about the tunnel, because I am fascinated with legends and lore and how they develop and what truth is hidden within.

The book includes interviews, photographs and documents from decades past including the first ever investigation in 1976. It includes historical accounts from the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s and 1970s with photographs and evidence supporting a number of theories. Photographs have been generously donated by residents including Kevin Valencourt, Niagara-area photographer. Please visit the Facebook Group Page for The Blue Ghost Tunnel: Making of a Legend and support and discuss this project.

America's Top 10 Ghost Tours

TripAdvisor Releases their Top 10 Ghost Tours of the USA

1. Hair-Raising Harpers: Ghost Tours of Harpers Ferry, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Self-proclaimed as “America’s oldest ghost tour,” this terrific tour has been running for more than 40 years. Brave travelers are invited to journey through Harpers Ferry’s historic “Lower Town,” to visit Hog Alley and other dwellings where past tragedies have left sauntering spirits.

2. I Ski Dead People: Park City Ghost Tours, Park City, Utah
Discover which apparitions inhabit local hot—or rather, chilling—spots in this famous ski destination, known also for its former days as a mining town (and its ghosts of miners gone by). Tour-goers often catch a glimpse of “Lizzy,” the apparition who frequents the Imperial Hotel, while ghoulish miners from yesteryear have been spotted sipping a cold beverage at the No Name Pub, formerly the Alamo.

3. A Risky Ride: Hearse Ghost Tours, Savannah, Georgia
This dark and daring tour passes through the old streets of Savannah in an authentic hearse, which formerly transported corpses for more than 15 years. Fearless travelers are invited along for the ride of their lives, to learn about the grisly ghosts that live in some of the city’s most beautiful homes and cemeteries.

4. Macabre Market: Market Ghost Tour, Seattle, Washington
In the Market district of Seattle lies the city’s first mortuary and a dilapidated graveyard, offering countless tales of terror. Spirits remain amongst these ruins and are often seen throughout the Market Ghost Tour, while photographs taken at the sites have been known to include mysterious phenomena, such as glowing orbs and even the ghostly face of a man.

5. Quick and the Dead: Tombstone Ghost Tour, Tombstone, Arizona
True to its name, the city of Tombstone provides ghost stories galore. Travelers can follow fearless tour guides through the dark streets of this “Wild West” town, as they recount bone-chilling stories about the spots where cowboys and deputies once battled.

6. Spooky Surprise: Providence Ghost Tour, Providence, Rhode Island
Come nightfall, travelers are invited to follow the murky glow of a lantern and brace themselves for some spooky surprises on the Providence Ghost Tour, while exploring the secrets of this New England city. Based on research and historical documentation, this tour—which takes thrill-seekers to the scenes of many horrific deaths—will likely instill fear in the bravest of souls.

7. Seeking the Supernatural: Old Bisbee Ghost Tours, Bisbee, Arizona
Stroll through the atmospheric streets, stairways, and alleys of this 125 year-old town, and tour-goers may catch a glimpse of one of Bisbee’s infamous ghosts. Lingering residents include Julia, a “Lady of the Evening,” Nat the Miner, who owed money and paid for it with his life, and the Lady in White.

8. The Big Spooky: New Orleans Ghost Tour, New Orleans, Louisiana
Over the course of two terrifying hours, this walking tour escorts the living to several of the Big Easy’s top haunts, for ghost-spotting gluttony. The route includes a visit to a haunted bar, where paranormal sightseers can enjoy a refreshing break and some spirited fun.

9. Horrifying History: Chattanooga Ghost Tours, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Led by storytellers and actors, this tour will entertain, educate and send chills down travelers’ spines. The hair-raising itinerary includes a stop at the Sheraton Read House Hotel, where the ghost of Annalisa Netherly has supposedly resided since the 1920s, following her murder at the hands of her husband in room 311.

10. Smoking Specters: The Original Ghost Tours of Catalina, Catalina Island, California
Travelers can enjoy the eerie ambiance of Avalon, a small village that was established above a burial ground, on this spine-tingling tour. The ghost of Zane Gray, a local legend of Catalina, has been seen enjoying a cigarette along the Via Casino walkway; when approached, he disappears—leaving behind a thick cloud of smoke.

“With Halloween just around the corner, travelers can enjoy some spine-tingling thrills and hair-raising encounters on these memorable expeditions,” said Karen Drake, senior director of communications for TripAdvisor. “Offering unique destinations, colorful history and lively tales, these tours offer a fun and festive way to enjoy the season.”

*In Canada I recommend the Fort George Ghost Tour in Niagara On The Lake, it is true to the history and hauntings. Other ghost tours in the area, including ones offered by Haunted Hamilton and Burlington Ghost Walks are dissapointing and are often referred to as pieces of 2nd grade fiction and outright lies.

The Archives: NAGS Century Manor #2

The Niagara Amateur Ghost Seekers (NAGS) returned to Century Manor in Hamilton, Ontario for a follow-up investigation. This time, additional guests were brought in to investigate:

Notes from Dr. Gord:

Having arrived at Century Manor in Hamilton, Ontario at 9:35pm, the NAGS team was eager to start this investigation. The team was joined by Pauline, the psychic from the Shadows of Niagara novel, Beth and the Creepy Bastard team consisting of Elvis, Tommy and Don. We split in to two teams and proceeded on in. On my team were Kevin, David, Beth and Tommy. The other John, Steve, Pauline, Elvis and Don. We headed for the 3^rd floor to work our way down while the others worked their way up.

The 3^rd floor really gave me no feeling at all. One room I got the feeling of dread but I chalked this up to the fact that the room, while modest in size contained absolutely no windows. It was here that I set up a placement of a penny to see if it would move, upon examining it later, it had not. The rest of rooms minus the lovely lavatory full of love in the toilet provided nothing. From there we headed for the first.

As I approached the 1^st floor I was attracted to the 2^nd floor. I told David to come with me. It was here that we found three rooms with activity. The first that we found was RM 241. Here David got the name “Albert” and a sensation in the throat. We placed a penny in this room, and found later it had not moved. Next one was RM 237. While David and I were asking the spirits for a sign, here we both felt distinct cold spots in the room. Also everytime I asked for a sign we would get a sound at the radiator. The last room I found with something was RM 220. It was here that I had a mental vision of a elderly woman with short white hair, eyes were either blue/black but she was sitting up in her bed, under a blue blanket, yelling at either me or someone else. It was then that I picked up the name “Miriam”

Due to time restraints, we headed to the first floor. It was here that I received another vision. I didn’t see the room number but it down towards the fire hose. If you are standing in front of it, the room was to the left. I went in and it was here that I had the vision in my head of a young male in his twenties, pacing his room anxiously, wearing a red housecoat. Steve later reported to me that his team had also received a sign of a pacing male in the same room. Other than that was a quiet night.

Notes from GhostBoy:

Equipment Pauline and I Brought:
Trifield EMF Detector
Dr. Gause, Gause Metre
2nd EMF Detector
Chinese Compass
Blessed Salt
White Sage
Navajo Shaman Stone
Eagle Feather
Red Cloud’s Arrow

Revisiting Century Manor was an exciting opportunity for me. I knew this time I would have to be better prepared and so I prepared to protect myself as much as possible. This time I even had with me my Native American items to cleanse and protect me throughout the investigation.

Pauline Raby, the medium I had worked with previously on Shadows of Niagara, was invited to participate in the investigation. Ironically, she had given me a batch of protection items including a Shaman’s stone from the Navajo Tribe of Arizona.

Pauline had no prior knowledge of our previous investigation. In fact, she had no idea where or what she was going to besides it was a structure in Hamilton, Ontario.

Upon arriving at Century Manor, Pauline began walking around and feeling the building out. She had indicated that the building held a lot of energy and we would have a good investigation tonight.

The teams split up, and our team consisted of myself, Pauline, Creepy Bastard, BinaryGuy and Naz. Our team decided to investigate the first floor and we proceeded to the North Wing.

The First Floor

Pauline entered the “Viewing Room” where a two-way mirror split two rooms in one. Here she felt as if chloroform or anesthic was used on a person against their will. She indicated that there is a ghost in this room, but it is very “mild.”

The Gause Metre did not pick up anything unusual in this room, however, the group did feel mild cold spots and a tingling feeling in different areas of this room. The recorder also picked up the name “Paul” in this room.

I exited this room ahead of the team because I could hear audible footsteps in the hallway. When I went to check, no one was there.

The team proceeded to the last room on the left on this wing and I was tagging along in the rear. Immediately my stomach started turning over and I belched. Pauline said that the room was very, very heavy and there was a death associated with it related to digestion and even starvation. She indicated that we may feel frontal pressure on the head while in this space. A few in our group did.

Pauline found where the ghost of this room was hiding. At this time my right hand was twitching and I asked Pauline if she could tell if this person had a nervous twitch to them. Pauline indicated it was more like convulsions than a twitch. BinaryGuy then confirmed he, too, was experiencing a weird feeling on this right hand.

As we investigated this room I saw a flash of light go around Pauline. At this time Pauline said it went behind her and Naz indicated his arm was brushed by something. Everyone noted that the room got suddenly cooler. Pauline indicated that this was a male entity.

As we went through the other rooms Pauline felt the psychometric energies and indicated a lot of it wasn’t related to ghosts at all. We proceeded to the alcove and Pauline said she is getting more male energies. Naz indicated he smelled wood and I confirmed I could smell it also. Pauline also indicated she could smell wood.

In the hall again, I went up to Naz and stared at his face. Something was indicating for me to “Hit Him,” and to “Knock him down.” I did not like these feelings and turned and walked away from the group, down the hall and for a drink. Naz later indicated he knew something was up and began a prayer to his Norse Gods.

We proceeded to another room and Pauline immediately felt something was in it. She proceeded to help the team feel the entities in this space. There was a feeling of coolness in certain locations. When Pauline announced us in this room she said that it was freaking some of the ghosts out. I heard an audible scream after she spoke coming from the hallway. BinaryGuy, Creepy Bastard and I were in a circle and something went right inside. I took a step back and BinaryGuy indicated he could feel it.

A moment later BinaryGuy hushed us and we all heard a moaning sound coming from the hallway. We then exited the room and went to the South Wing of the first floor. Pauline and I entered the first small room (Rm 134) on the left hand side and an EVP of a spirit talking and moaning was recorded here.

Pauline said the person must have went crazy in this room and most likely would have paced the room and touched the walls all the time. Upon exiting Pauline wanted to go directly to Room 126 – the room Creepy Bastard did not want to enter the last time he was in Century Manor. This was the same area I felt something in Room 125 and David in Room 124 on our previous investigation. Something was going on in this corner of the building.

A clear voice indicated on the recorder “Get me water” as we entered room 126. Pauline indicated it was a very suffocating room – the person was asthmatic and had a dry throat. They would cough and spit up.

Another EVP was captured overtop of Pauline’s voice. It says, “I want you,” or perhaps “I warned you.”

BinaryGuy noted that the one wall was cold while another was hot. I felt cobwebs all over my body. Pauline said when she was in the previous room, she heard the ghost say that they were moved to 126. I smelled cedar and others in the group confirmed this wood smell again.

Pauline also wanted to investigate Room 125 and she indicated the room felt clear. Naz indicated the room did not feel bad to him.

We proceeded up the front steps to the 3rd Floor

The Third Floor

The heaviness felt on our previous investigation was felt again by Naz and myself going up the steps. At the top of the steps a sharp pain, almost a stabbing feeling went into both my thighs. I dropped to a squatted position and then composed myself and carried on with the group.

We proceeded into the “Exercise Room” and Pauline felt that it was active on the Third Floor. We proceeded following Pauline’s lead to Room 304 where David felt a lot of energy on our last visit. Here Pauline felt a lot of sadness and abuse attributed to the ghost in this room. She indicated it was disciplined by its parents – perhaps a little too much. We all felt cold spots and a weird energy in this room. I felt that the person(s) in this room were pushed around and even pushed up against the walls. Pauline indicated the ghost was scared to death (no pun intended). And again, she felt it was a male spirit.

Pauline had us perform a sacred circle and invited the spirit to present itself. At this time I was way off balance and felt like falling backwards all the time. Several others felt as if they were being pulled backwards as well. Some felt something brushing the back of their hair.

Pauline felt nothing ghostly in the “Holding Room” however, the name “Kathryn” was presented in this room on the recorder. The voice is identical to my own, however, I never said this name during this investigation. The name Kathryn seems to come up whenever I am with Naz.

Pauline indicated to us that she was told we need to go to another room on this floor and we proceeded to go to the front room. Here we would encounter what the team considered to be a very nasty spirit.

As Elvis entered the room and proceeded to the back Pauline indicated to him that the spirit was right there. Elvis could feel it and Pauline indicated that the word “Slaughter” came to her. She continued to say that this person committed slaughter. Both Naz and I indicated that the ghost was angry and was trying to swear at us. I got “f**k you, you sons of bitches.” And Naz got “f**k you! f**k You! f**k You!”

All in our group were affected by this spirit and we all felt it was big and what some would consider evil. It felt as if the spirit was running around the room and trying to get us out. Pauline indicated we would not be able to communicate with this spirit intelligibly.

I felt as if this ghost strangled someone and was also involved in stabbing his family to death. We left this space and continued down the back steps to the Second Floor.

The Second Floor

Pauline indicated that there was a lot of confusion on this floor. As I walked past everyone I went to the area where I got the name Richard Buckle (Richard Bucke was the actual name of the 1st Superintendent Dr.) As I walked past I called his name and Binary Guy indicated a rush of cold wind went past him just as I did.

Pauline investigated a few rooms but felt only what was left behind, but no ghosts entities. In the hallway Pauline closed a door and the recorder picked up “I see him,” as I walked further down the South Wing.

Pauline felt rapes and sexual abuse occurred in one room of the second floor (the area where the Dr.’s would have been.) Naz indicated he felt that someone’s throat was held and perhaps strangled. Pauline continued to say the person was a person of responsibility.

Pauline entered Room 241 and said she could feel something in there but it was somehow attached to the room next door (Room 238).

In Room 238 Pauline matched my previous statement that the person in this room died there and committed suicide. The light flickered eerily in this room and Pauline continued to say this person was also involved in slashing themselves. Cold spots and weird feelings encompassed our entire group. One time I swore I saw piece of paper fall to the ground, but no one dropped any. Pauline indicated she noticed something also.

An EVP recorded here says, “I can’t get out.”

It was difficult concentrating on this investigation as Pauline was picking up on so many ghosts and feelings in Century Manor and I was trying to catch up to her. It also indicated to us that as a group and individually we can confirm our feelings in the rooms and spaces of this haunted building. Several times Pauline went to the rooms we felt activity in on our previous encounter with Century Manor.

To me, Century Manor is by far the most haunted building in Hamilton.

Notes from nAz:

Like the last investigation, we spilt up into two teams.

Team 1 – Kevin, Dr. Gord, Makeajazznoise, Beth, Tommy

Team 2 – GhostBoy, CreepyBastard, Pauline, BinaryGuy, nAz.

Upon starting the investigation I had two recorders, One, I placed in the middle of the first floor left hallway near the end. The other I carried with me.

Team 2 started the investigation on the right section of the first floor.

Before I begin, let me say that Pauline’s gift is extraordinary. I am glad I was able to be there to experience it. Pauline’s presence also is a credit to the NAGS Team as she confirmed many of the rooms and areas that NAGS targeted on our first trip into the Manor.

The second trip into Century Manor was much different than the last. The atmosphere was more relaxed yet we were rushed. Because of time restraints GhostBoy brought the team to all of the rooms indicated in our last investigation for confirmation through Pauline and the chance to get a clearer understanding / communication with the spirit’s present.

Areas – Events of Note:

Right Wing – 1^st Floor:

After we checked the viewing room out, I went into the hallway as I realized I had forgotten to pray to my gods for insight and protection. While I was praying, I noticed GhostBoy walk up to me, stare into my face, then walk away. Puzzled by his actions, I asked him later on why he did that. He informed me that he had this overwhelming urge to hit me. Interesting, did a spirit know what I was doing & wanted to interrupt?

Small room with “dutch” doors with adjoining office space. Here we could sense a spirit pacing between rooms. You could literally feel the spirit moving from room to room. Here is where I got the evp “Out, Get Out”.

3^rd Floor:

Heading up to the 3^rd floor, I again felt that strange apprehension. GhostBoy felt it as well, for we both stopped on the stair case near the 3^rd floor at the same time.

Small room at top of stairs. Here is where I got the evp “There’s a girl up here”.

Shortly after entering the “gym” my recorder picked a female scream.

Room 304:

Here the spirit’s were running around the room. Pauline was attempting to find out more about the spirit(s), but they kept moving back and forth. We formed a circle & let the spirit’s know we meant them no harm. While in the circle many felt that they were being pulled backwards & Ghostboy actually stumbled back. During the circle, the “baby” finger of my right hand felt hot! Pauline said it was part of a inner dowsing mechanism. While in circle, it was discovered that the spirit in the room was disciplined heavy in life & was nervous with our presence.

Room 303 (?):

This is the room I did not even see the last time I was here. Oddly enough I didn’t even pick up on spirit activity here.

Room 302 (?):

Whoa. This room had activity from the moment I entered. After I took several steps in I actually started to drool. Everyone’s voice seemed muddled. I actually had difficulty listening to what Pauline & the team were saying. Was this the result of this individual being drugged? When I got near the back of the room I was overwhelmed with the spirit’s rage. I got annoyed with the team & actually at one point wanted to start screaming “Fuck you! Fuck you! Fuck!!!” I was too overcome with this emotion to really pick up on anything else.

Room 305 (?):

Small room with bathroom at the top of the back stairs.

While standing in front of the open door, I felt something rush by me and enter the room. Pauline felt it as well. She stated it went into the bathroom & was gone. Pauline asked if the window was broken as the spirit had disappeared. We pushed open the bathroom door & shone a flashlight into the room, sure enough, the window was broken!

I’d like to apologize to you the reader of this report. The 2^nd floor of Century Manor was a blur. We went to every room of note during our last investigation. In every room & even some others we encountered spiritual activity. It was also on this floor that our escort had come to inform us that our time was up. This had rushed our time as well. Quite possibly I can blame the sense of confusion on this floor for my lack of mental & physical note taking as well. J

I’d like to thank CreepyBastard, Tommy & Binary Guy for inviting NAGS to Century Manor for a second visit!

What I would love to do is spend several hours just listening to the activity at this location. Century Manor is worth the time and effort!

The Archives: NAGS Century Manor

The Niagara Amateur Ghost Seekers (NAGS) investigated Century Manor in Hamilton, Ontario. Joining us would be future members of The Shadows Project as well as sensitives M.T. Rivers and Ladyce. Below are the results of the investigation:

Notes from GhostBoy:

Before I begin my notes on our investigation, I will assure you that I had no prior knowledge of this building besides that it was a former mental institution, located in Hamilton and was supposedly haunted. I limited my exposure to information and the only web site I read was Hamilton Paranormal (www.hamiltonparanormal.com).

When we first pulled up and I exited the vehicle I was overwhelmed by the architecture and presence of this building. It was huge, but like the other historical places had been vandalized and subjected to neglect.

As I walked around peering into the windows and admiring the building I had the impression that the building’s patients were subject to coughing and fever and I wrote down Spanish Influenza as it came to me. Further research would be needed to determine if this was correct. For some reason I was also drawn out to the Mountain Brow area and had the feeling that there was an energy there as well.

Our guide allowed us entrance to the building and we split into two teams. Myself, Kevin, David and Tom (a skeptic and friend of NAGS) used the front steps to reach the 3rd floor while the other team investigated the first floor.

The Third Floor

Upon entering the very last steps to enter the third floor I felt the air get thicker and almost a blockage of passage. As we proceeded into the room labeled “Classroom” I immediately noted that this was going to be a good investigation as I could feel a lot of energy in the building.

As we made our way around, David split off and went to room 304. As I entered I commented to him: “You look spooked.” He was standing near centre of the room and glanced over at me and it appeared as if he had just saw a ghost. He indicated that he felt something in the room. Even though this room was facing West and the sun was just beginning to set, this room was noticeably cooler in certain areas than other rooms which had no presence of sunshine for many hours. I felt that this place would perhaps be a library of sorts but also felt a lot of neglect would have happened in this room.

Next, Kevin and I entered room 305, which was completely dark with no windows. We both indicated it was hard to breath but attributed it to the closed and unused room. But there was definitely more to this room than we first thought.

Tom had been inspecting the various rooms and even managed to look into the attic and noted it looked creepy but he didn’t get anything out of the ordinary.

We proceeded to room 305, closed the door and tried to make communication with whatever spirit was in this room. I distinctly heard a spirit say it was a holding room and I wrote down “Hold. Hold.” In my notes. We asked the spirit to present itself and the only noticeable audible sounds were a crack in the ceiling. When I asked the spirit if this was initiated by them or was it a natural sound caused by the building the sound echoed again from the same location. We continued to investigate room 304 and the cold spots. David indicated he felt that this room was active. Kevin and I agreed and even Tom felt the cold areas.

The Second Floor

The Second Floor of Century Manor is where I believe most of the activity would be taking place. As I entered the one wing I was overwhelmed with a feeling of fear, disgust, apprehension and discomfort. I’ve been to some of North America’s most haunted and terrifying locations but this area was starting to give me the “creeps.”

I immediately saw movement in the hallway near the window and walked slowly down, inspecting each room as I went along. I noted to Kevin that this was “Where they kept the real F$#$-Ups.” In general, I feel compassion for those suffering from mental illnesses – but this wing had something more to it, and I felt anger toward it in some strange way.

It was something more than just mental illness and it was later revealed through historical research after the investigation that Century Manor was used for holding the criminally insane. Indeed, murderers, rapists, serial killers and others considered the scum of society were placed here.

As I walked past a common room I glanced at a chair placed in its centre. The chair moved and I not only viewed this, I heard it – it scraped a good quarter inch across the floor. I stopped, sat down and began snapping photos as quickly as I could. I met up with Kevin and indicated that I had saw a chair move and before I could finish my sentence he said he had also.

We continued to investigate the second floor and in each room we found a little something left over from the past. I felt that in room 238 a suicide had occurred. Hopefully, through further research we can determine if my feelings were accurate.

As we approached the second wing I kept getting the name “Richard.” As I entered what I believed to be the nurses station, I also got the name “Bluckey” but as I entered room 247 I indicated to Kevin I am getting the name “Richard Blucke” or “Buckle” and I wrote these notes down. Kevin indicated he knew the last name and wanted to tell me how it is referenced but I indicated I did not want to know at that time.

As we continued through the building other rooms presented me with death, fear, anguish, evil, and a host of uncomfortable feelings. The second floor processed a lot of negative, strong feelings. It was very, very uncomfortable in some of the rooms.

I made an indication to one of the isolation rooms not for Kevin to enter it and I just past it right by. There was an extreme physical force and emotional block there and it was potentially harmful.

Later, with courage and the biggest guy I could find (Creepy Bastard from our message boards), we entered the room and closed the door. I tried to communicate with the spirit but all I could get was “F#$% you! F$%$ You!” and then, “Are you a doc?” and I answered, “No.” and then I got: “The Dr. isn’t coming!” I felt this room could have been a lock-down chamber and the unfortunate home of a resident ghost who isn’t exactly friendly to say the least.

The Basement

Even though the basement was very old, creepy and had a good atmosphere for ghostly endeavors, I didn’t find it active at all. It was odd, however, that each room in the basement, including the tunnels to other buildings had a single chair residing in them.

The First Floor

I felt rushed on the first floor but continued to investigate as much as I could nonetheless. I didn’t feel that there was a strong energy here, but there was definitely something. Perhaps the people on the first floor weren’t as violent or mentally ill as those above. There were rooms again where death and fear was present. I even locked myself in one isolation room where the only light coming through was through a 4-inch glass window. I had a hard time with the feelings in the room and somehow used my fingers to pull the heavy door open using the window ledge (There was no inside door handle of course).

The first floor also gave me the feelings of children, but this feeling was a bit different. I don’t know if they were children here or just visiting. Later, Tom and I found evidence that a “Day Care” was open in Century Manor at some time. How insane is that?

It is interesting, also to note, I did not pick up on any female energies and our research indicated later that Century Manor was indeed used for males only. I had the impression before our investigation it was most likely used for both.

When we proceeded out of the building it was like a vale was lifted and the feeling of freedom was overpowering. It felt good to leave.

That Night

I returned home to find my wife already tucked into bed. As I snuck in and covered up I was thinking of what tomorrow would bring. I felt a little uneasy and suddenly the sheet lifted and a cold breeze touched our feet. My wife commented that I had uncovered her, however, I did not move. The room was warm but the area where the sheet had lifted was cold. I used the excuse that I was going to get a drink and as I walked around I could see shadows darting about my house. I definitely believe I had brought something back with me.

I began a native cleansing ritual and cleared my home. That night, my youngest son was troubled and kept needing to be put back to bed and assured everything was all right. Both my wife and I had a very hard time sleeping that night. In the morning I awoke with a very stiff neck, physical bruises on my legs, an ear infection and swollen throat. I began the native cleansing ritual one more time. This time, it worked and whatever decided to attach itself to me, went away.

From now on I am suggesting our team cleanse itself after each investigation for protection. This isn’t a game nor a joke.

BTW- The name I picked up on the second floor – Richard Buckle – is in fact the first Dr. Superintendent of Century Manor! Dr. R.M.Bucke very close.

Notes from Kevin:

When we first pulled up to Century manor, I was in awe of its size and incredible architecture.It was unbelievable to think that Century Manor was just one building of what used to stand on the grounds.

We arrived early, I took the opportunity to walk the parameter of the manor and snap some pics while we still had some daylight.

Steve the security guard arrived and gave us some quick ground rules and opened up the front door.

At this point we split into 2 teams. I decided to join John, David and Thomas to the 3rd floor.

I would first like to point out that I am skeptical to the point that if I can prove something scientifically I will, but what I personally experienced, I could not explain.

As I followed John up the stairs to the 3rd floor I felt the air get heavy, at first I dismissed this feeling as humidity. John and I walked into room 305; it was small and dark due to their being no windows. The air was even heavier in here, John agreed when I explained the feeling, I got the feeling of some sort of Punishment, and John made a similar comment. We all entered the room, leaving it dark. John asked if there was something present to make it known, we all heard an odd bang on the ceiling of the room, when asked again if something was there, the noise was made again. This could have been said to be coincidence, yet with the noise happening again upon being prompted, it seemed to be legit.

We moved our way into room 304, David mentioned that he felt somewhat uncomfortable in this room, and very cold, John made the point that if anything, room 304 should have been warmer than the others, since the sun was coming in the windows. Personally I didn't get anything from room 304, infact I didn't feel the heavy, humid feeling I had received on the stairs in room 305. Which proved to me it wasn't just the later; it seemed to only be in certain areas.

We made our way down to the second floor, I split up from the group and was drawn towards the reception desk, I still can't explain why, but I did feel colder in that area. I went to inform John of my findings, and as I passed the alcove I was also drawn to a lone chair sitting in the middle of the area. I snapped some pics, not really having a reason to do so, as I started to walk away; out of the corner of my eye I am sure I saw that chair move. I dismissed this thinking my mind was playing tricks on me, and hurried to John to inform him of my drawn feeling at the reception desk. It was at this point that John had mentioned the chair moving and I explained that I had thought I had seen this happen as well.

John and I went to the reception desk, and this is where he picked up the name Richard Buckle, as soon as I saw him write this name down, I knew he has something, and wanted to tell him, since I had done my research on the Manor in advance I knew the name of the first Superintendent of the hospital was Dr. Richard M. Bucke. I waited until our after discussion to inform John of this.

I personally didn't get much more, I admit I am amateur, and I am learning to open myself up a lot more thanks to John and nAz. I was actually pleased and excited with myself about the feelings I got from Century Manor and how close I was to what others of more experience felt.

Notes from nAz:

N.A.G.S. members present: Kevin, makeajazznoise, GhostBoy, nAz.

Other Investigators: NovRaine, Ladyce, CreepyBastard, Tom, BinaryGuy.

Upon arrival at Century Manor, we all split up to check out the grounds and take a look at the building. Many of us all took pictures of the exterior of the building & tried to get a feel for the place.

As our guide arrived to let us into the building we all split up into two teams.

Team 1 – Kevin, GhostBoy, makeajazznoise & Tom.

Team 2 – NovRaine, Ladyce, nAz, CreepyBastard, BinaryGuy.

Team 1 went directly to the 3^rd floor to kick off the investigation, & Team 2 started on the ground floor.

Century Manor – Ground floor.

First impressions: I was amazed at the size of the place, the large open hallways, the tiny “cells where patients were locked up.

Hallway – Ground Floor.

Patient “Cell”.

The patient rooms locked from the outside via deadbolt. Lights for the room were by switch on the outside as well. Many of the doors looked like thay had been replaced as a couple of the doors looked older than the rest & had little windows for staff to look in on. Ineach “wing” there appeared to be several offices and common areas for the patients. One common area still had a television stand on the wall.

I personally did not pick up on anything paranormal on the ground floor. One impression I did have was the other side (right) wing seemed to have a orderly nature about it. Nothing indicated this as right and left sides of the building were identical. Possibly, those housed in the right wing were more “lucid” than the rest.

After getting our bearings & becoming accustomed to the atmosphere of the Manor, Team 2 moved into the basement to continue the investigation.

The basement was really damp & musty. I expected it to be “creepy” because of the nature of the building, but it was not. The basement contained several tunnels that lead to other buildings on property. Also, it contained the boiler room and what appeared to be coal storage rooms. What was interesting was the fact that in each of the rooms, there was a single chair. All of the chairs were very dirty & looked to have years of dust on them. Nothing paranormal was picked up on in the basement by myself.

The next stop for Team 2 was the 3^rd floor. As we were walking up the stairs, we encountered Team 1 headed down to the 2^nd floor.

Once we got to the 2^nd floor I started to get a panicky feeling. I stopped to figure out this feeling. What could possibly be bothering me about the 3^rd floor? I continued up. As I rounded the steps up to 3, I was feeling downright terrified! I stopped again. I was getting an impression. People were literally dragged up to this floor kicking and screaming! I snapped a picture. Only later did this picture confirm this thought.

If you notice, to the right of the picture, there is a safety grate over the stairs heading down… this prevents the patients from jumping or falling.

As I was almost up the stairs NovRaine was coming back down, saying it was bad, bad up there. She didn’t come back up.

The 3^rd floor’s air was heavy and thick. It was almost hard to breathe. I really didn’t want to be up there. Maybe it was a good thing, but I did not enter most of the rooms on 3. I did visit what appeared to be a “gym” without the equipment. There were different hooks on the walls and a slogan “Fit Five Levels Achieved”.

The Gym.

The wall slogan.

Before I left the 3^rd floor, I spotted the ladder for BinaryGuy to take a picture of the attic. I was happy to leave the 3^rd floor. It had a certain aura of hopelessness about it. There were a couple of rooms that I did not go in, if we go back – I will, but at the time I didn’t want to.

2^nd Floor.

This floor of the entire building is the most active. Walking onto this floor, I could feel it right away.

The 2^nd floor of the building house a Nurse’s Station, what appeared to be an Administration office and another administration office on the other side. It also contained what appeared to be a kitchen or Dining area & dish room.

The Left wing appeared to have the most damage by water and vandals. Lights & ceiling tile framing had been pulled down and there was broken glass in the hallway. The floor had identical patient rooms as the first floor.

One room in the Right wing stand out to me the most. When I entered the room, it seemed that I passed through a spirit. Every nerve ending in my body came alive. When I started talking to the energy, something unexpected happened. I suddenly had severe pain in my right and left temples & directly above the temples on either side of my forehead. The pain was incredible. It was so bad that I had a headache immediately. It continued during the rest of the investigation, on the way home & when I woke up in the morning. What could possibly cause that type of pain?

The common room in the right wing was carpeted. Here NovRaine had a weird experience with losing her balance. She didn’t fall, just was “wobbly”. CreepyBastard had also witnessed this as he had entered the room as well. This room also contained some spiritual energy. All I picked up was a feeling of waiting, sadness & impatience. I felt like pacing the floor.

The entire teams eventually met up on this floor & called it a night. Our escort locked the building & we were done.

I have never been happy to leave a place like I was there. What a relief. I must say this, even though I had two encounters with spirits directly, the entire building had an “ether” about it. It was one of sadness, negativity, hopelessness, wandering. It was everywhere you went. The atmosphere was very oppressive. Leaving was like a weight off your shoulders.

I’m sure I have forgotten something as so much happened that night.

Notes from David:

While I by no means have any background nor do I claim to have any "Psychic" or "medium" qualities... the experiences I have had with this group have taught me to open myself and have a sense for the areas we investigate. This location had some very negative energy. While I was thrilled with the experience and hope to go back soon... it was a good feeling walking out of century manor. Not wanting to steal words, all credit to nAz for saying this, “nailed it" when he said the "atmosphere was oppressive". Good words nAz!

I'd like to express my thanks to "Creepy Bastard" for getting us in for this adventure, and again I offer any assistance I can to his upcoming project on this locale. Thanks as well to his crew BinaryGuy and Thomas aka "AceFrehley” and to NovRaine & Ladyce for joining us on this experience.

Our group started on the 3rd floor. I found on the way up it was difficult to climb the stairs. By the time I got to the top it felt like I had ran up 10 flights of stairs rather than walked up 3 (please... no old man jokes here guys!). The air was thick and almost hard to breath on this floor. I (for lack of a better word) "felt" presence(s) in 4 of the 6 rooms I entered on this floor.... particularly in room 304. I felt cold, and "tingly". I was in the room alone and when the others entered the room the feeling changed. This wasn’t the first time on this night that happened (more later). John told me I looked spooked, and I agreed. It’s hard to describe what happened there, I think something was trying to communicate, but I wasn’t receptive enough to understand. When I went into room 308 for some reason I immediately said (I had a tape recorder rolling) "someone was abused in here". Again, I can’t explain how or why theses things were coming to me... but they did a lot on this night.

At least 8 to 10 rooms in that building gave me feelings of a presence.

Another notable event for me was when I entered room 241. Walking into the room the air was very heavy, I found the room to be ice cold, and a smell. I felt that someone died in that room. It smelled "spicy"... reminiscent of, not quite like pumpkin pie (not that nice but)... but kind of like nutmeg or cloves. I was in the room freezing, and then Tom came in... And the cold dissipated and I could no longer smell the spicy smell. I asked Tom if he smelt anything out of the ordinary. I think he thought I was making a "pull my finger" type joke ;-) and left the room. I never even got a chance to go into the (facing building) left wing of the 2nd floor as I went back up to 3rd floor awhile, and revisited room 241 in hopes of another encounter... but it didn’t happen.

We visited the basement, while interesting, and I think would be a great place to shoot a music video, I got no sensations out of the ordinary. I did however have my flashlight (with new batteries) die while in one of the cold storage chambers. There had been an old rusty chair in (guarding?) the doorway... as well as the standard one chair in the middle of the room. I found that odd... there was one lone chair in the middle of every room throughout the basement.

I toured the first floor last, amongst the entire group at this point. We were rushed at this point, as we were in the basement as well... as the security guard was getting impatient. I found room 124 gave me the impression of a presence and very cold. Others in the group thought this of adjoining rooms (John) 125 and (Creepy Bastard) 126, so we concurred that maybe something happened in that particular corner of the building.

In all... this was an incredible experience. We sure wish that Dr.Gord was there. (Added since Gord just asked me if he was in the novel I was writing). I am really looking forward to going back

*Also of note* I did not realize until seeing our front page that it was Hamilton Psychiatric Hospital that we were visiting.... and that it closed in 1995. All of the lead up and preparation for the visit it was referred to as Century Manor... and I never made the connection until now. In the early 90’s (until '94) I worked with the association for community living... and worked with a lot of seniors that were placed into the community after leaving H.P.H. I remember that all of those people I worked with were all terrified of being sent back to HPH.

EVPs Recorded:

1. Female voice "Screams", and then says "Help" another possibility is "Get them out!" you be the judge DOWNLOAD

2. A whisper is heard near the end of this recording, it is unclear what it is saying. DOWNLOAD

3. Appears to be the sound of running water, when there was no source of water anywhere in the manor. DOWNLOAD

4. Sound of a loud moan, it was first thought to be a door, but later determined that it was not. DOWNLOAD

5. Female voice whispering "Hey Yeah" listen carefully. DOWNLOAD

6. After the security guard is done speaking you hear a male voice say "What Is That". DOWNLOAD

7. 2nd floor hallway male voice saying "Grab him" DOWNLOAD

8. Room 238 male voice stating "Get up" or possible "Get out" DOWNLOAD

9. Room 304 possible females voice after GhostBoy takes some notes stating "Come again" DOWNLOAD

10. Room 304 same voice as above after GhostBoy takes notes stating "Come and get me" DOWNLOAD

11. Room 308 Fitness room, female screaming "Help me!" DOWNLOAD

12. 2nd Floor large room, male sounding grunt. DOWNLOAD

13. 2nd Floor unidentified room strange noise. DOWNLOAD

14. 2nd Floor hallway, odd noise cuts into the recording. DOWNLOAD

15. Century Manor odd noise mized in with sound of footsteps. DOWNLOAD

16. Field outside of Century Manor male voice says "Run!". DOWNLOAD