The Bell Witch Haunting

The Bell Witch is America’s most famous poltergeist case. For four years, the Bell family of Robertson County, Tennessee, was tormented by an entity that spoke, predicted events, and allegedly murdered John Bell. Andrew Jackson himself reportedly visited.

The Beginning

In 1817, John Bell saw a strange animal in his fields that vanished when shot at. Soon after, knocking and scratching sounds began in the house. The activity escalated rapidly.

The Entity

Unlike most poltergeists, the Bell Witch developed a voice. It called itself various names before settling on Kate. It could hold conversations, quote scripture, and sing hymns. It knew intimate details about neighbors and predicted future events.

The Targets

The entity particularly tormented John Bell and his daughter Betsy. John suffered physical attacks that left him ill. Betsy was slapped, pinched, and had her hair pulled. The entity vocally declared its intention to kill John Bell.

Andrew Jackson

According to legend, General Andrew Jackson visited to investigate and witnessed the phenomena. His wagon wheels allegedly locked, and the entity threatened his men. Jackson reportedly declared he would rather fight the British than the Bell Witch.

John Bell’s Death

On December 20, 1820, John Bell was found unconscious. A vial of dark liquid was nearby. Kate claimed to have administered poison. John died the next day. The vial’s contents killed a cat when tested.

Assessment

The Bell Witch case combines poltergeist activity with an intelligent, speaking entity and an apparent murder. Whether demonic force, ghost, or elaborate hoax, it has shaped American supernatural folklore ever since.