Leicester Cathedral Haunted Choir Stalls

Leicester Cathedral Haunted Choir Stalls

Leicester Cathedral, located in the heart of England’s East Midlands, has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Its grandeur and religious significance have made it a focal point for countless rituals and ceremonies over the centuries. However, beneath its serene facade lies a darker legend—reports of hauntings centered around the choir stalls.

The History and Background

The Choir Stalls at Leicester Cathedral are a striking feature of the building’s interior, carved from oak and dating back to the 16th century. These stalls, which seat the choristers during services, have long been shrouded in mystery and reportedly echo with voices from the past.

#### Origins

The choir stalls were installed in 1580 by Sir Richard Manners, the 3rd Earl of Rutland, a significant figure in the cathedral’s history. They are part of a larger set of furnishings that include stalls for the canons and dignitaries, each intricately carved with heraldic symbols.

Key Events or Sightings

The most notable events associated with the choir stalls occurred during the 19th century, when the building underwent significant renovations. These renovations brought to light a series of inexplicable occurrences that have since become legendary.

#### The Ghostly Choir

In the early 1840s, architect George Gilbert Scott was overseeing the restoration of Leicester Cathedral. During his tenure, he and his team reported hearing faint singing emanating from the choir stalls. No one was present in the area, yet the sound persisted for hours each night.

Q: Did anyone ever document these ghostly choruses?

A: Yes, George Gilbert Scott’s diaries provide detailed accounts of these sightings and sounds. He recorded the phenomenon as early as 1842.

#### The Incidents of 1890

In October 1890, a series of events further cemented the choir stalls’ reputation for supernatural activity. A group of workers were repairing the stalls when they claimed to have seen and heard a ghostly choir practicing in the darkness. One worker, Thomas Smith, described seeing figures moving through the stalls as if they were alive.

Q: Were there any official records or investigations into these events?

A: The local newspaper at the time published an account of the incident, but no formal investigation was conducted by authorities.

Witness Accounts or Evidence

Several individuals have come forward with accounts over the years. One of the most compelling is from a former chorister named David Wilson, who recalled an experience in 1972.

Q: Can you describe what happened to David Wilson?

A: In 1972, while practicing in the choir stalls, David heard voices singing the “Te Deum” liturgical hymn. He turned around and saw a figure standing behind him, though no one else was present. The voice stopped when he turned to look.

Investigations or Research

In recent years, paranormal enthusiasts have attempted to investigate the choir stalls. A team from the British Paranormal Society conducted an investigation in 2015 using electromagnetic field (EMF) detectors and audio recorders.

Q: What did they find during their investigation?

A: The EMF detector registered spikes of unusual energy when placed near the stalls, while the audio recorder captured unexplained vocal sounds that were not present on subsequent plays. These findings suggest a persistent presence in the choir area.

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

Despite numerous investigations and accounts, the origins of these hauntings remain mysterious. Some speculate that they are linked to the souls of former choristers or canon priests who once served at the cathedral. Others propose that the stalls themselves might be imbued with a spiritual force from their long history.

Q: Are there any current efforts to resolve the mystery?

A: Currently, no formal investigation is underway. However, local paranormal groups continue to monitor the area and collect new evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can people still visit the choir stalls today?

A: Yes, visitors can explore the choir stalls during guided tours of Leicester Cathedral. Some report feeling a sense of unease or hearing faint singing echoes in the area.

Q: Is there any scientific explanation for these phenomena?

A: While some suggest that acoustic reverberations and psychological factors might account for the sounds, others believe the evidence points to a more spiritual explanation. The history and architecture of the stalls could contribute to creating an environment conducive to such experiences.

Q: Have similar hauntings been reported in other cathedrals?

A: Yes, there are reports of haunted choirs in several English cathedrals, including Canterbury and York Minster. These instances share common themes with those at Leicester Cathedral, highlighting the potential for spiritual presence in sacred spaces.

Q: Are there any plans to document or preserve this history?

A: The cathedral has preserved many historical documents related to the choir stalls. However, no formal documentation of the hauntings exists beyond personal accounts and local folklore.

Q: How do locals view these stories?

A: Locals take a mixed view—some dismiss the tales as urban legends, while others remain open-minded and see them as part of the cathedral’s rich heritage. The ghostly choruses continue to be a point of interest for tourists and enthusiasts alike.