The Rerrick Parish Poltergeist

In 1695, the Mackie family of Ringcroft in Rerrick Parish, Scotland, experienced a dramatic poltergeist outbreak. The events were documented by local minister Alexander Telfair, providing one of the most complete early accounts of poltergeist phenomena.

The Setting

Andrew Mackie was a prosperous farmer living at Ringcroft with his family. In February 1695, the household began experiencing disturbances that would continue for months.

The Phenomena

The poltergeist threw stones with tremendous force but never seriously injured anyone. It set fires that extinguished themselves. It dragged family members from their beds. It tied knots in clothes and blankets. Objects moved constantly throughout the house.

The Voice

Unlike many poltergeists, the Rerrick entity spoke. It called out in a “hoarse, husky Voice” and engaged in theological debate with the minister. It claimed to be a devil sent to torment the family for unspecified sins.

The Investigation

Reverend Alexander Telfair investigated thoroughly. He witnessed phenomena personally and documented everything in detail. Other ministers visited and confirmed the activity. The case was considered genuine by religious authorities.

The Resolution

After months of torment, the activity suddenly ceased. The entity claimed to be departing but would return. It was never seen again. The Mackie family continued to live in the house without further disturbance.

Assessment

The Rerrick poltergeist is valuable for its detailed contemporary documentation. Telfair’s account, published shortly after, provides a firsthand record of phenomena, witness reactions, and the interpretation of such events in late seventeenth-century Scotland.