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Fox Sisters
Three sisters claimed to communicate with spirits through mysterious rappings. They sparked the Spiritualist movement that swept the world. Decades later, one confessed it was fraud—cracking toe joints. But she later recanted.
1848 - 1888
Hydesville, New York
10000+ witnesses
The Fox Sisters started modern Spiritualism—and may have faked it all.
The Legend
According to documented accounts:
In 1848:
- Margaretta, Catherine, and Leah Fox
- Claimed to hear spirit raps
- In their Hydesville home
- Could communicate through knocks
- Sparked a worldwide movement
The Phenomena
The sisters claimed:
- A murdered peddler haunted their home
- Spirits answered yes/no questions
- Through knocking sounds
- Later, alphabet communication
- Sophisticated messages
The Movement
Spiritualism exploded:
- Millions of followers worldwide
- Séances became popular
- Other mediums emerged
- Believers included scientists
- Abraham Lincoln attended séances
The Confession
In 1888:
- Margaretta confessed publicly
- The raps were toe-cracking
- She demonstrated on stage
- Received payment for admission
- Denounced spiritualism
The Recanting
Later:
- Margaretta recanted her confession
- Said she was pressured
- Still claimed spirits were real
- Died in poverty
- The truth remains uncertain
Legacy
Regardless of truth:
- Founded modern spiritualism
- Influenced millions
- Changed religious landscape
- Inspired ongoing paranormal interest
- Their home is historic site