Paranormal probes at the Columns

Ghost hunters love the place MILFORD — The 1904 neo-classical manse in Milford, known as The Columns Museum has more to offer than the usual historical artifacts and ephemeral, the site has been the target of several paranormal investigations over the last two years. With the popularity of television shows that delve into the study of ghostly activity, it would seem the old 1904 home has a few secret tales to tell. Most recently, Banshee Investigators spent several hours monitoring the Columns’ interior with their audio and visual equipment. In a July 2010 meeting these findings were disclosed to the Museum’s Director, Lori Strelecki. “There were some unusual sound bites recorded in the second floor bedroom” said Strelecki. “A voice seemed to be saying ‘this is mine’.” Banshee staff requested a return visit to follow up on their findings, and will stake out the second floor on Aug. 20. Also in the near future, another paranormal investigating team will grace the Columns. Dark Illusions Paranormal Research Team plans on scanning the museum for any ghostly apparitions on the infamously dark date in August, Friday the 13 . “The date is just a coincidence” said the Museum’s Director, “it was the only date we all could agree upon without conflict.” What these teams may discover is of interest to a rapidly growing fan base of paranormal studies. “Both investigation teams are highly professional and take what they are doing very seriously” said Strelecki. She added: “I myself do not believe in ghosts, but I do not make light of those who do.” Author and ghost investigator Linda Zimermann included the Columns in one of her latest issues. She spent several hours in the Columns a few months ago and credits the experience as being one of the eeriest she has ever encountered. A recent visitor had several “visions” while at the Columns. In her “flashes of memory,” as she described them, she saw a woman fall down the attic stairs while a man stood at the top in disbelief and concern. She also envisioned several dancers on the main floor, and a “small woman” who enjoys hanging out in the basement rooms. The most common ghostly sighting at the Columns has been of Madame Juliette Peirce, deceased wife of Philosopher Charles Saunders Peirce. The last items remaining from their estate are housed at the Columns, including clothing that belonged to Madame. Steve Barry of Dark Illusions paranormal Research Team” explained that the Columns is a worthy candidate for an investigation because of the varied artifacts that are held within its walls. Though the house only dates back to 1904, the artifacts date back to the Lenape Indian occupation of the area. For more information please contact the PCHS at 570-296-8126, email pikemuse@ptd.net or visit them online at www.pikecountyhistoricalsociety.org .