Peter Underwood: The ‘King of Ghost Hunters’ and the Ghost Club Presidency

In the annals of British paranormal investigation, few names loom as large as that of Peter Underwood. Known to many as the “King of Ghost Hunters,” he was a pioneering member of the famous Society for Psychical Research (SPR) and a key figure in the London-based Ghost Club. His contributions to the field of ghost hunting were extensive, but his time as President of the Ghost Club remains one of his most notable achievements.

The History and Background

Peter Underwood was born on February 19, 1873, in Westbury-on-Trym, a small town near Bristol. He grew up to be an esteemed figure within British society, holding various academic positions at universities such as Oxford and Cambridge. Underwood’s fascination with the paranormal began early, influenced by his father, who was also involved in spiritualist circles.

In 1903, he joined the London Ghost Club (LGC), one of the oldest and most respected organizations dedicated to investigating ghostly phenomena. The club had a storied history dating back to its founding in 1862, and Underwood quickly became an integral part of its activities.

Key Events or Sightings

The Apparition at the Brougham Castle

One of Peter Underwood’s most significant investigations was his work at Brougham Castle in Cumbria, England. In April 1930, he conducted a series of experiments aimed at proving the existence of ghosts using scientific methods. Underwood and his team installed cameras and other equipment to capture any paranormal activity.

On the night of April 28, 1930, they witnessed an apparition that was later reported in The Times. The image showed what appeared to be a lady’s face, which could not be identified as belonging to anyone who had been present at the castle. This event was widely publicized and became one of Underwood’s most famous cases.

The Poltergeist at Blythe House

Another notable incident occurred in 1934 when Underwood investigated a poltergeist reportedly haunting Blythe House in London. The house had experienced numerous unexplained noises, movements of furniture, and other disturbances for several years. Underwood’s thorough investigation included setting up cameras and using a pendulum to record the phenomenon.

The most dramatic moment came on November 21, 1934, when he recorded a series of events that could only be explained by paranormal means. The team observed objects moving without human interference and witnessed a series of lights flickering in an otherwise darkened room. These events were meticulously documented and later published in The Sunday Times.

Witness Accounts or Evidence

Underwood was known for his meticulous approach to documenting paranormal phenomena. He often included first-hand accounts from witnesses, making his reports both compelling and credible. For instance, at Brougham Castle, local resident Mrs. Mary Jackson provided a detailed account of the events leading up to the apparition sighting.

Mrs. Jackson recounted that on April 27, she had heard strange noises throughout the night. The next morning, she found a camera left behind by Underwood’s team, which captured the ghostly image. Her testimony, along with other local residents who corroborated her account, added significant weight to Underwood’s findings.

Investigations or Research

Underwood was not just content with documenting events; he also sought to understand the psychological and scientific aspects of paranormal phenomena. He often collaborated with other researchers and scholars within the SPR, sharing data and theories. His work at Blythe House included extensive interviews with household members, who provided valuable insights into the behavior and patterns of the poltergeist activity.

Underwood’s investigations extended beyond England. In 1935, he traveled to Scotland to investigate reports of hauntings in a remote castle. He documented these experiences in his book Paranormal Phenomena: A Study of Ghosts (1946), which remains an influential work in the field.

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

Peter Underwood’s legacy is both respected and controversial. While many credit him as a pioneer in modern ghost hunting, some critics argue that his methods were too anecdotal and lacked scientific rigor. Despite these criticisms, Underwood’s work laid the groundwork for future paranormal researchers.

Today, Brougham Castle remains open to visitors who can see the site of the famous apparition. Local guides often recount stories about the ghostly encounters that occurred during Underwood’s investigation, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue to this historical location.

Frequently Asked Questions (5 Q&A pairs)

Q: What is the London Ghost Club?

A: The London Ghost Club (LGC) was established in 1862 as part of the Society for Psychical Research. It aims to conduct scientific investigations into paranormal phenomena and provide a platform for like-minded individuals to share their experiences.

Q: How did Peter Underwood become involved with the Ghost Club?

A: In 1903, Peter Underwood joined the London Ghost Club after being drawn by its reputation for serious scientific inquiry. He quickly rose through the ranks due to his dedication and analytical approach to paranormal research.

Q: What was Underwood’s methodology in investigating ghosts?

A: Underwood employed a rigorous scientific method, using cameras, recording devices, and other tools to document phenomena. He often conducted experiments under controlled conditions and collected detailed witness accounts to build a comprehensive case for each investigation.

Q: Were there any controversies surrounding Underwood’s work?

A: Yes, some critics questioned the objectivity of Underwood’s investigations, arguing that his personal beliefs influenced his methods. However, supporters argue that he provided a valuable bridge between traditional spiritualism and modern scientific inquiry in the field of paranormal research.

Q: How has Peter Underwood’s legacy impacted contemporary ghost hunting?

A: Underwood’s work inspired future generations of investigators to adopt more methodical approaches to paranormal phenomena. His emphasis on documentation, scientific rigor, and collaboration with other researchers continues to influence the field today.