The Great Amherst Mystery
A young woman became the focus of violent poltergeist activity including fires, flying objects, and messages on walls.
The Great Amherst Mystery
In 1878, Esther Cox of Amherst, Nova Scotia, became the center of one of North America’s most violent and well-documented poltergeist cases.
The Trigger
The disturbances began shortly after Esther was sexually assaulted. Within weeks, strange things began in the crowded house where she lived with her family.
The Phenomena
Esther experienced seizures. Her body swelled dramatically. Loud bangs came from nowhere. Writing appeared on the wall: “Esther Cox, you are mine to kill.” Objects flew through the air. Pins materialized and stabbed into Esther’s face. Small fires started spontaneously.
Walter Hubbell documented the case and published “The Great Amherst Mystery” in 1888. Numerous visitors witnessed phenomena, including doctors, clergy, and police.
Resolution
The activity gradually diminished after approximately a year. Esther married and lived normally afterward. The case remains one of North America’s most significant poltergeist incidents.