I think my new house might be haunted. I’ve not experienced anything particularly unnerving there, to be clear. No apparitions.
No voices. No sudden chills or shut doors. (There was a night light in the bathroom that violently strobed every time I walked by, but I’m pretty sure that was just a faulty sensor.
Pretty sure.) My suspicions have to do with the age of the place — it’s almost as old as the Civil War — and its location: It directly abuts a former lumber mill that a neighbor, while struggling against the pull of his formidable corgi, told me was likely the scene of grisly accidents long ago. So what do you do if you suspect your place might be possessed and you want to learn more? I asked Lou Bernard, a Clinton County-based paranormal investigator, author, and historian.
We covered DIY research tips, the ethics of ghost hunting, and why some people feel comforted when they finally meet their phantom. The conversation has been edited for clarity and length. PA Local: Lou, I think my house might have some history.
I’ve asked you to share some paranormal research tips, but first, can you tell me about the work you do for others? Bernard: Yes. I’m part of a ghost hunting team, the Lock Haven Paranormal Seekers, and that's part of our service. I actually will do a title search on the house, and, you know, find out who is most likely to be haunting the place for you.
Once we've done all that, that's the point where the occupant decides whether or not they'd li.