The Seaford Poltergeist

In February and March 1958, the Herrmann family of Seaford, Long Island, experienced poltergeist phenomena that attracted the attention of police, the media, and parapsychologist J. Gaither Pratt. Bottles popped open and objects moved on their own.

The Beginning

The phenomena began on February 3, 1958. Bottles of holy water, starch, and other liquids had their caps pop off and contents spill. The family initially suspected a practical joke but could find no explanation.

The Escalation

The activity intensified. Objects flew across rooms. Bottles continued to open by themselves. A sugar bowl lifted and crashed. A bronze horse figurine moved repeatedly. Police were called and witnessed events themselves.

The Investigation

Detective Joseph Tozzi investigated thoroughly, ruling out vibration, electrical issues, and pranks. Parapsychologist J. Gaither Pratt from Duke University studied the case. Both concluded something unexplainable was occurring.

The Focus

Twelve-year-old Jimmy Herrmann appeared to be the focus. The phenomena occurred most often when he was present. As with other poltergeist cases, a pubescent child seemed to be the center of the activity.

The End

The phenomena ceased as suddenly as they began. The Herrmann family returned to normal life. No explanation was ever found for what had happened in their home.

Assessment

The Seaford case is one of the best-documented American poltergeist cases. The involvement of police and academic investigators, the number of witnesses, and the failure to find fraud make it a cornerstone of poltergeist research.