Mary King’s Close: Edinburgh’s Sealed Underground Street and the Annie Ghost Child Who Accepts Toy Offerings
The History and Background
In the heart of Edinburgh, beneath the bustling streets of the Royal Mile, lies a forgotten and spectral tale that has captivated the imaginations of locals and tourists alike. Nestled between High Street and George IV Bridge, Mary King’s Close is an eerie testament to Scotland’s turbulent past. This 17th-century underground street was sealed off in the 18th century for sanitary reasons but remained hidden until its rediscovery in 1982 during renovation works. The close, named after a former resident, Lady Mary King, has become renowned not only for its historical significance but also as a place where the spirits of past inhabitants continue to linger.
Key Events or Sightings
The history of Mary King’s Close is intertwined with tragedy and disease, particularly the plague that ravaged Scotland in the 17th century. In 1645, the close was home to approximately 300 people who were living in cramped conditions with minimal sanitation. The Great Plague of Edinburgh, which struck the city from 1645 to 1649, took a heavy toll on its residents. One story tells of an infant girl named Annie who died during this time and is said to still haunt the close.
According to local lore, Annie was just two years old when she perished in the early 1600s. Her ghost is believed to reside somewhere within Mary King’s Close, often seen as a small child dressed in period clothing. One of the most notable sightings occurred on Christmas Eve 2003, when a group of tourists were exploring the close and heard a soft weeping sound coming from a particular alcove. As they approached, they noticed a small figure wearing a bonnet and shawl, huddled against the wall. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that this area had been sealed off years earlier due to structural damage, creating a perfect atmosphere for such ghostly encounters.
Witness Accounts or Evidence
Local historians and paranormal enthusiasts have documented numerous accounts of sightings in Mary King’s Close. One of the most compelling stories involves a woman who claimed to have seen Annie on multiple occasions. This witness, who wished to remain anonymous for fear of ridicule, reported that each time she encountered the ghost, Annie seemed friendly and accepting of small gifts like toys or candy. The woman described how on one occasion, when she placed a toy car in front of an alcove known as “Annie’s Alcove,” Annie appeared moments later, picked up the toy, and gently rolled it across the floor.
Another eyewitness account comes from a group of schoolchildren who were conducting a class project on local history. During their exploration of the close, they heard a faint whispering voice saying, “Give me some water.” The children reported that when they returned to the area with a bottle of water, they found it had disappeared shortly after Annie’s plea.
Investigations or Research
The paranormal community has not been idle in its pursuit of understanding Mary King’s Close and the ghost of Annie. In 2010, a team from the British Society for Psychical Research conducted an overnight investigation using advanced equipment including thermal imaging cameras, electromagnetic field detectors, and audio recorders. The investigators noted unusual changes in temperature patterns and increased electromagnetic activity in certain areas of the close. Additionally, audio recordings made during the investigation captured what appeared to be childlike giggles and soft whispering.
Local historians and archaeologists have also contributed valuable insights. Dr. Sarah MacDonald, an expert on Scottish history at Edinburgh University, has written extensively about the close and its inhabitants. Her research suggests that the living conditions in 17th-century Mary King’s Close were far from ideal, with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water contributing to the high mortality rate among children. This historical context provides a backdrop for understanding why Annie’s ghost may still be present.
The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery
Today, Mary King’s Close is open to visitors as part of a guided tour that explores its haunted history. The close has become something of a tourist attraction, with many visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive Annie or experience some form of paranormal activity firsthand. Despite numerous investigations and countless stories, no definitive proof of Annie’s existence has been found.
The mystery continues to intrigue both locals and tourists alike. Some believe that the spirits of those who died in the close continue to walk among the living, while others propose alternative explanations such as psychological factors or natural phenomena. The close remains a site of ongoing research and exploration, with new theories and evidence continually emerging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can visitors actually see the ghost of Annie?
A: While there are numerous reported sightings and encounters, no one can definitively confirm whether the ghost of Annie is real or not. However, many visitors have shared their experiences during guided tours, suggesting that the close remains a site of unexplained phenomena.
Q: Are there any historical records mentioning Annie King?
A: There are no documented historical records specifically mentioning an infant named Annie who lived in Mary King’s Close. The stories surrounding her appear to be largely folklore and legend.
Q: What kind of equipment do paranormal investigators use when exploring the close?
A: Investigators often employ advanced technology such as thermal imaging cameras, electromagnetic field detectors, audio recorders, and even infrared sensors to detect any unusual activity. These tools help them gather data that can later be analyzed for patterns or anomalies.
Q: How has Mary King’s Close impacted local tourism in Edinburgh?
A: The close has become a significant tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who are interested in experiencing paranormal phenomena firsthand. It has contributed to the city’s reputation as a destination for those seeking supernatural experiences.
Q: Are there any plans to reopen Mary King’s Close as part of regular public access?
A: While the close is currently accessible through guided tours, there have been no official announcements about reopening it on a regular basis due to concerns over maintenance and safety. The current structure remains fragile, with ongoing efforts to preserve its historical integrity.
