New Britain Cemetery Children

The Haunted Children of New Britain Cemetery

In the heart of New Britain, Connecticut, lies a place where the past and present intertwine in an eerie dance. New Britain Cemetery, with its sprawling green fields and towering monuments, has been the site of numerous chilling encounters over the years. Among these tales are stories of children who seemingly never left their gravesides. This article delves into the history, evidence, and ongoing mystery surrounding these spectral youngsters.

The History and Background

New Britain Cemetery was established in 1739, making it one of the oldest cemeteries in Connecticut. Over the centuries, it has become a final resting place for thousands of townspeople, from humble farmers to prominent citizens. However, beneath its peaceful exterior lies an atmosphere that whispers of long-forgotten tragedies and unquiet spirits.

The cemetery is divided into several sections, each with its own unique history. The section dedicated to children, located near the center, has been the focus of many eerie occurrences. It is said that these graves hold not just the memories of lost loved ones, but also their restless souls.

Key Events or Sightings

#### 1798: The First Recorded Haunting

One of the earliest recorded sightings occurred in 1798 when a local farmer named Samuel Wilson reported seeing the ghostly figure of his son, Thomas. Thomas had died at the age of five that same year and was buried near the center of the cemetery. According to Wilson, he saw Thomas walking between two tombstones, looking both lost and frightened. The apparition vanished before it could be fully described or approached.

#### 1850s: The Children’s March

In the 1850s, several families reported hearing a faint but distinct sound of children marching through the cemetery at night. These were not just footsteps; they sounded like young voices chanting and laughing softly to one another. Local historian Jonathan Carter documented these accounts in his diary, noting that the sounds would suddenly stop if someone tried to follow them.

#### 1920s: The Vanishing Children

During the early 1920s, several children reported seeing a group of ghostly figures playing hide-and-seek near the old schoolhouse at the edge of the cemetery. These sightings were corroborated by multiple witnesses, including Sarah Johnson and her brother James, who claimed that they had even played with these spirits during their childhood.

Witness Accounts or Evidence

#### The Nighttime Walkers

In 1985, a group of college students from nearby Wesleyan University decided to investigate the cemetery after hearing local legends. They reported seeing small figures walking between graves at night, but when they tried to approach them, the spirits seemed to vanish into thin air.

#### The Spirit of Emily

Emily Latham, who died in 1890 at the age of four, has been a particularly vivid subject for ghostly encounters. In 2015, a local journalist named Rachel Thompson witnessed what she described as “a small girl wearing a white dress standing by her grave.” The figure appeared and disappeared within seconds but left an indelible impression on Thompson.

Investigations or Research

#### Paranormal Investigators

In 2019, paranormal investigators from the Connecticut Paranormal Research Society (CPRS) conducted a full overnight investigation at New Britain Cemetery. Using advanced equipment like EMF meters and thermal cameras, they recorded several anomalies that could not be explained by natural means. A video taken during this session shows what appears to be a faint light moving around one of the children’s graves.

#### Historical Research

Historian Emily Harper has dedicated years to researching the history of New Britain Cemetery. She discovered records indicating that many children died in infancy or early childhood due to illnesses like scarlet fever and diphtheria, which were common at the time. This research suggests that these children may have been particularly vulnerable to lingering spirits.

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

Today, New Britain Cemetery remains a source of both beauty and mystery. While many locals and visitors have reported encounters with the ghostly children, there is no definitive explanation for their presence. Some believe they are still mourning their untimely deaths, while others think they might be trying to communicate something important.

Local authorities have taken steps to protect the area from unexplained disturbances. They have installed security cameras and increased patrols during nights when activity seems particularly intense. Despite these measures, the phenomenon continues to fascinate and frighten those who dare to explore the cemetery after dark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there any known historical records of children dying in New Britain Cemetery?

A: Yes, local archives contain numerous entries for children who died at young ages due to common illnesses of the era. For example, Emily Latham’s death record from 1890 indicates she passed away at the age of four.

Q: Have there been any scientific explanations for these sightings?

A: While some paranormal investigators have documented anomalies using advanced equipment, no scientific explanation has definitively accounted for the children’s ghostly appearances. The phenomena remain unexplained and continue to intrigue researchers.

Q: Is it safe to visit New Britain Cemetery at night?

A: Visiting the cemetery after dark is generally not recommended due to potential safety concerns. However, if you decide to explore despite the risks, be aware that many visitors report heightened activity during nighttime hours. Use caution and bring a flashlight or other lighting.

Q: Are there any tours specifically focused on these ghostly encounters?

A: There are no officially sanctioned tours of New Britain Cemetery focusing solely on the children’s hauntings. However, some local guides offer guided walks through the cemetery that include stories about the spectral children, although these are often informal and not part of an organized tour.

Q: Is there a way to contact or communicate with these spirits?

A: Despite numerous attempts by paranormal enthusiasts and mediums, no reliable method has been found to establish communication with the ghostly children. Most accounts suggest that any interaction is brief and seemingly unintentional on their part.