The Mackie Poltergeist

In 1695, the farmstead of Andrew Mackie at Ringcroft of Stocking in Scotland became the site of one of the earliest well-documented poltergeist cases in British history.

The Events

The disturbances began with stones being thrown at the farmhouse. Over subsequent weeks, the phenomena escalated. Fires started spontaneously. Farm equipment was destroyed. Stones flew through the air, striking family members.

The activity was particularly violent. Family members were dragged from their beds. A child was thrown across a room. Animals were attacked and killed.

Investigation

Local clergy investigated and documented the events. Multiple witnesses provided testimony. Attempts at exorcism proved unsuccessful.

The documentation provides a detailed primary source for 17th-century poltergeist activity, including witness statements and descriptions of specific incidents.

Resolution

The activity eventually ceased without clear explanation. The case was documented in a contemporary pamphlet and has been cited by researchers ever since.

Assessment

The Mackie poltergeist provides valuable historical evidence for how poltergeist cases were perceived and documented in early modern Scotland. The detailed records make it an important case in paranormal research history.