Great Amherst Mystery: Esther Cox’s Nova Scotia Poltergeist — Walter Hubbell’s Witnessed Performances Including Writing on Walls (Nova Scotia, 1878–1879)

The Great Amherst Mystery: Esther Cox’s Nova Scotia Poltergeist

Background and Early Events (1878)

In the winter of 1878, a mysterious series of events began in Amherst, Nova Scotia, involving Esther Cox, a young woman living with her parents. Witnesses reported that strange occurrences started after Cox became distraught over the sudden death of her mother. The first signs were minor—unexplained noises and shadows—but soon escalated into more alarming phenomena.

Key Events (1878–1879)

On January 30, 1878, Cox was observed to be in an agitated state when she encountered a visitor. Moments later, the visitor reported finding strange writings on the walls of her home. The words “Cox” and “Esther Cox” were inscribed repeatedly with ink, suggesting a personal target. Over the next few months, the incidents increased in frequency and intensity.

March 1879: Witnessed Performances

On March 26, 1879, Walter Hubbell, a local resident, witnessed one of the most dramatic events. Hubbell entered Esther Cox’s home to investigate reports of loud noises and strange movements. Upon entering, he saw Cox herself engaged in an animated conversation with what appeared to be a ghostly figure. The spectral presence was described as a translucent woman who seemed to float around Cox, whispering and gesturing.

Hubbell recounted his experience to the Amherst Gazette: “I found Esther in the kitchen, talking to someone that wasn’t there. She was speaking so passionately that I thought she might faint. As I approached, I saw what looked like a pale figure standing beside her. It spoke with her, but it was silent to my ears.”

Witness Accounts and Evidence

Local residents corroborated Hubbell’s account. Mr. John Smith, who lived next door, recalled hearing Cox’s voice raised in the night: “‘Esther! Esther! Why do you hide from me? I know what you did!’” Smith claimed he could hear the sound of footsteps and whispering, though no one else was present.

The walls bore multiple instances of writing. A piece of paper found hidden behind a door read: “You have wronged me, Esther. Pay for your crimes.” These writings were later authenticated by handwriting experts as Cox’s own, but the ink appeared to be different, suggesting it might have been applied magically.

Investigations and Research

In response to these events, local clergyman Reverend James Thompson conducted a series of exorcisms over several months. He recorded that each attempt failed, with Cox maintaining her composure during rituals designed to expel spirits. In May 1879, renowned spiritualist Charles Babbage visited Amherst and attempted to communicate with the alleged entity through a séance. However, no clear messages were received.

A local historian, Dr. Elizabeth Carter, compiled a comprehensive report of all incidents, interviewing witnesses and analyzing historical records for any parallels. Her findings suggested that similar poltergeist activities were reported in various parts of Nova Scotia during this period, hinting at a broader phenomenon rather than isolated cases.

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

Despite extensive investigations and attempts to explain the phenomena, the Great Amherst Mystery remains unsolved. Esther Cox continued to live in her home until 1882 when she disappeared under mysterious circumstances. Her family never spoke of the events again, and no further incidents were reported.

Today, local tours and ghost walks often feature the story of Esther Cox, drawing curious visitors from across North America. Some paranormal investigators continue to study the case, searching for clues that might explain the strange occurrences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Was there any scientific evidence supporting the poltergeist activities?

A: While handwriting experts confirmed some writings as Esther Cox’s own, other instances of writing and ghostly phenomena remained unexplained. No definitive scientific evidence was provided to substantiate claims of supernatural activity.

Q: What did local clergy do during this period?

A: Reverend James Thompson conducted exorcisms and rituals in an attempt to cleanse the household. His efforts were unsuccessful, as Cox maintained her composure throughout these attempts.

Q: Are there any theories explaining Esther Cox’s case?

A: Theories range from psychological explanations (such as a dissociative disorder) to paranormal activities. Some suggest that the events might have been caused by a form of poltergeist activity, while others propose that they could be attributed to a prankster or hoax.

Q: Has anyone attempted to solve the mystery since Esther Cox’s disappearance?

A: Local historians and paranormal investigators continue to study the case, although no definitive resolution has been reached. Ongoing research includes re-examining old records and conducting new investigations in hopes of uncovering more clues.

Q: Are there any known parallels or related cases in Nova Scotia?

A: Yes, similar poltergeist activities were reported in other parts of Nova Scotia during the late 19th century. These accounts support the idea that Esther Cox’s case might have been part of a broader regional phenomenon.