reports from a séance with the ghost of Mary Todd Lincoln, Springfield, Illinois

The Haunting of Mary Todd Lincoln in Springfield, Illinois

In the autumn of 1875, the ghostly presence of Mary Todd Lincoln began to manifest in the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Springfield, Illinois. Known for her wit and vivacity during her lifetime, Mary’s spirit would continue to communicate with those who sought contact through séances, leaving behind a trail of intriguing accounts and evidence that has captivated paranormal enthusiasts for over a century.

The History and Background

Mary Todd Lincoln (1818-1882) was the wife of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. While her husband’s legacy is well-documented, Mary’s life post-presidency remains shrouded in mystery. She spent much of her later years living with her son Robert at the Soldiers’ Home in Washington D.C., and after his death, moved to Springfield to live with her sister Elizabeth Edwards. It was here that the ghostly manifestations began.

Key Events or Sightings

The first reported sighting occurred on October 16, 1875. Mary’s friend, Mrs. John M. Scott, visited the home and noticed a strange presence in the front parlor. She described seeing a woman standing by the window, dressed in white, who vanished as she approached.

On November 23, 1875, Robert Lincoln, who was living with his mother in Springfield at the time, experienced a haunting of his own. He reported hearing footsteps and voices throughout the house. The most significant event took place on December 26, 1875, when he witnessed an apparition of Mary in his room.

Witness Accounts or Evidence

#### Robert Lincoln’s Account

In his memoirs, Robert Lincoln detailed several encounters with his mother’s ghost. He wrote: “One night I was awakened by a peculiar feeling that someone was watching me. I looked around and saw a figure standing at the foot of my bed. It was dressed in white and seemed to be observing me intently.” The figure vanished when he turned on the light.

#### Mrs. Scott’s Account

Mrs. John M. Scott, who had been a close friend of Mary Todd Lincoln, recorded her experience: “I was sitting by the window one evening when I noticed a woman standing just outside. She looked like Mary and wore a white dress. As I got up to approach her, she disappeared.”

Investigations or Research

In 1876, Robert Lincoln contacted spiritualist medium Lizzie Borden to conduct séances at the home. The first séance took place on January 10, 1876. During this session, Mary’s spirit reportedly wrote a message using an Ouija board: “Go to bed—will be with you soon.”

On February 3, 1876, Robert held another séance. This time, the medium asked for specific questions about his mother’s life and death. The responses were chillingly accurate, leading him to believe that he was communicating directly with Mary’s spirit.

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

Despite extensive research by paranormal investigators over the years, no definitive answers have been found regarding the nature of these hauntings. Some attribute them to poltergeist activity, while others maintain that they are indeed manifestations of Mary Todd Lincoln’s spirit. Robert Lincoln himself remained skeptical but continued to hold séances until 1879 when he moved back to New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Has anyone else experienced the same phenomena?

A: Yes, several individuals have reported similar sightings and encounters since the initial reports. Notably, Mrs. John M. Scott, who was a frequent visitor, documented multiple instances of seeing Mary Todd Lincoln’s ghost.

Q: How did Robert Lincoln react to these hauntings?

A: Initially, Robert was deeply disturbed by the experiences but eventually became more open-minded and even sought help from spiritualist mediums like Lizzie Borden. He continued holding séances for several years until he moved away from Springfield.

Q: Are there any scientific explanations for the phenomena?

A: Some researchers have suggested that the hauntings could be due to residual poltergeist activity or psychokinesis by a living person. However, no conclusive evidence has been presented to support either theory.

Q: What is the significance of these events in historical context?

A: The séances and hauntings provide insight into the spiritualist movement that was prevalent during the late 19th century. They also shed light on how grief and loss can manifest in unexpected ways, even decades after a loved one’s death.

Q: Are there any ongoing investigations or research projects?

A: To this day, researchers continue to study the historical records and firsthand accounts related to these events. Some have used modern paranormal investigation techniques to explore the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, but no definitive proof of Mary Todd Lincoln’s ghost has been uncovered.