The Watseka Wonder

In 1877, thirteen-year-old Lurancy Vennum of Watseka, Illinois, became possessed by the spirit of Mary Roff, a girl who had died twelve years earlier. For several months, Lurancy lived as Mary, recognizing Mary’s family and recalling Mary’s life in detail.

Lurancy’s Affliction

Beginning in July 1877, Lurancy experienced trances during which she spoke with spirits. Her family sought medical help, but doctors proposed asylum commitment. A neighbor suggested a different explanation.

The Roffs

Asa Roff had lost his daughter Mary in 1865 to a mysterious illness accompanied by seizures and trances. When he heard of Lurancy’s condition, he wondered if there was a connection.

The Possession

During a trance, Lurancy announced she was Mary Roff. She did not recognize her own family but knew the Roffs immediately. She recalled details of Mary’s life that Lurancy could not have known. She asked to go “home” to the Roff house.

The Residence

With both families’ consent, Lurancy went to live with the Roffs. For several months, she was Mary in every way. She recognized Mary’s possessions, remembered Mary’s experiences, and behaved exactly as Mary had.

The Return

In May 1878, Mary announced she must leave and Lurancy would return. After the transition, Lurancy remembered nothing of the preceding months. She returned to her family and lived normally thereafter.

Assessment

The Watseka Wonder is one of history’s most detailed possession or spirit takeover cases. The quantity of verified information Lurancy possessed about Mary’s life remains unexplained by conventional means.