The Borley Stone-Throwing

Borley Rectory in Essex was dubbed “the most haunted house in England” by researcher Harry Price. Among its many phenomena, the poltergeist activity manifested primarily as objects being thrown by unseen forces, stones materializing in midair, and messages written on walls.

The Rectory

Borley Rectory was built in 1863 on the site of an ancient monastery. From its first occupants, the Bull family, strange phenomena were reported. The haunting became famous when Harry Price investigated beginning in 1929.

The Stone-Throwing

Objects flew through the rectory without visible cause. Stones materialized in midair and fell to the floor. Bottles were hurled. Keys flew from locks. The phenomena occurred regardless of who was present.

The Wall Writing

Messages appeared written on walls asking for help and prayers. The most famous asked for a “light mass” to be said. The handwriting did not match any known occupant. New messages appeared during investigation.

The Investigation

Harry Price conducted extensive investigation, including a year-long study using volunteer observers. He documented phenomena but was later accused of exaggerating and possibly fabricating evidence. The controversy continues.

The Fire

In 1939, the rectory burned under mysterious circumstances. During demolition, a female skeleton was found in the cellar, apparently validating the ghost’s claims. The identity was never confirmed.

Assessment

Borley Rectory remains controversial. Harry Price’s methods have been criticized, but other investigators documented phenomena independently. Whether the most haunted house in England was genuine or the creation of an ambitious researcher may never be known.