Ghost Nuts

"This week Cristina brings up the shenanigans of the Bell Witch Ghost! Well see who has the last laugh in this tale. Also check out our friends podcast "The Poison Room Podcast" for some great info on vaccine research."

Presented by: Cristina
Category: Ghost

One of the most famous hauntings in American history, the haunting of the Bell family began when sightings of strange animals began on the property. Shortly thereafter, the Bell home was invaded, with the ghost scratching at the beds. When they were finally able to communicate with the spirit, it identified itself as Kate's Witch.

Giving varying accounts of her origin, the Witch was not fond of most of Bell family but particularly hated John Bell, the father and repeatedly stated her intent to kill him. She was also harsh to one of the daughters, beating her especially when she became engaged to an adult when she was only 12 and only stopping when the engagement was called off. She also hated Andrew Jackson, who supposedly came to visit and was scared off by the Witch after one night.

When the Witch finally succeed in poisoning John Bell in 1821, she promised to return in 50 years. So far as we know, she failed to do so.

While there are contemporary accounts, most of the story comes from a book by Martin Van Buren Ingram, who wrote a book on the subject long after the events supposedly took place. He claimed that he had based the book on a diary that he'd been given and had kept secret until the Bell family had passed away to spare their feelings.

Takeaway: Write down things as they happen.

Trivia

 * Patreon skit: Great British Bakeoff.