Poltergeist in Amherst

Poltergeist in Amherst

The Poltergeist in Amherst was a popular name for a documented case of a poltergeist. In 1878, nineteen year old Esther Cox of Amherst, Nova Scotia, became a victim of a poltergeist haunting.

The poltergeist, which gave itself the name "Bob Nickel", was most likely attracted to Esther by her severe emotional distress -- brought about by a recent sexual assault. The haunting began with physical ailments afflicting Esther alone -- inciting seizures and causing her body to swell to almost twice its normal size. Soon, objects began to fly about the house and threats -- such as the words "Esther Cox, you are mine to kill" began to appear. Spontaneous fires combusted in the house. The attacks increased in intensity, and while doctors and clergymen were powerless and clueless, some claimed the more spirits were joining in the attacks upon Esther. The events ultimately drew the attention of the actor and hunter William Hubble, who encouraged Esther to depart on a speaking tour -- mostly to get her away from the area that was flourishing with spirit activity.

After abandoning the tour, Esther took a job working in a barn. The spirit set fire to the barn, and Esther was arrested for arson. Following this, the poltergeist activity ceased. Despite the lack of activity, John Winchester traveled to Amherst at the end of the 20th century to investigate any supernatural presence in the town. After several days without finding anything, he left Amherst.