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The Spiritworld
Famous Poltergeists

Poltergeists are one of the most incredible and terrifying manifestations of paranormal activity because they often leave physical evidence of their actions.

The Phantom Drummer of Tedworth was a famous poltergeist that haunted an English family in the 1600s. The poltergeist would make drumming sounds, beating night after night. It would also violently hit furniture and smashed a bedstead to pieces. Only when a clergyman came to visit did it stop.

In the early 1800s, the Creeping Coffins of Barbados caught the attention of the press. The activity took place in the Chase family tomb for a period of eight years. Coffins would be rearranged and even flung against the walls.

The Enfield Poltergeist is the most spectacular case of its kind. Lasting over a year in the 1970s, two researchers documented over 1500 incidents. They ranged from materialisation of objects, fire starting and even possession, the majority of which was centred on Janet, a twelve-year old girl.

Photos: Fortean Pictures