The Thornton Heath Poltergeist

In 1938, a family in Thornton Heath, South London, experienced a poltergeist outbreak that brought legendary ghost hunter Harry Price to investigate. The case produced compelling evidence and violent phenomena that continue to intrigue researchers.

The Beginning

The disturbances began in February 1938 in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Forbes. Saucers flew off shelves. Glasses exploded. Heavy furniture moved across rooms. The family’s maid was struck repeatedly by flying objects.

The Investigation

Harry Price, the era’s most famous paranormal researcher, was called to investigate. Price set up scientific equipment and documented numerous incidents. During one session, a glass exploded near an investigator. Eggs flew from their box. A tea chest moved on its own while being observed.

The Physical Attacks

The entity seemed particularly focused on physical attacks. Mrs. Forbes was scratched and slapped. The maid was hit with such force by flying china that she required medical attention. Even skeptical observers were pelted with objects.

The Resolution

After several months, the activity gradually diminished. Price theorized the phenomena centered on the teenage maid, whose emotional turmoil may have provided the energy for the manifestations. When she left the household, the activity ceased.

Assessment

Harry Price documented the Thornton Heath case with the scientific rigor that characterized his work. While he suspected a psychological component connected to the young maid, he never dismissed the reality of the phenomena he witnessed.