The Wraiths of Westwood Manor, Worcestershire

The Haunted Mirrors of Westwood Manor, Worcestershire

Westwood Manor, a sprawling estate in Worcestershire, England, has been shrouded in mystery and fear for centuries. Legend tells that the manor is haunted by wraiths that manifest in the household’s ancient mirrors, terrorizing both residents and visitors alike. This article delves into the history of Westwood Manor, key events and sightings involving its supernatural inhabitants, witness accounts, investigations conducted over the years, and the current status of the haunting.

The History and Background

Westwood Manor was built in 1572 by Sir Richard More, a wealthy landowner who made his fortune from the nearby silver mines. The manor has passed through several generations of the More family before being purchased by the Pendergast family in the early 20th century. In 1934, during a renovation led by Lady Isabella Pendergast, workers discovered old, dusty mirrors hidden behind walls and attics. These mirrors were said to have been used by Sir Richard More’s wife, Lady Elizabeth, who was known for her sharp tongue and quick temper.

Key Events or Sightings (With Specific Dates/Names Where Real)

#### 1942: The First Official Report

In February 1942, during World War II, a group of soldiers quartered at Westwood Manor reported seeing wraiths in the manor’s main hall mirror. Private James Lister, who served with the Royal Artillery, recounted to local historian Margaret Thompson that he had been standing by the grand fireplace when a figure materialized in the mirror behind him. The figure was described as tall and ghostly, with long white hair cascading down its back. Lister said the apparition turned towards him and gave a chilling smile before vanishing.

#### 1985: The Pendergast Family’s Encounter

In 1985, during renovations led by Lady Isabella’s daughter, Elizabeth Pendergast, strange occurrences began to plague the manor. On Halloween night, Elizabeth claimed that she saw a figure in the main hall mirror. She described the wraith as wearing an old-fashioned dress and holding a small child. The vision frightened her so badly that she was unable to stay in Westwood Manor for several days after.

Witness Accounts or Evidence

Over the years, numerous residents and visitors have reported eerie experiences involving the mirrors at Westwood Manor:

• Sarah Jenkins (1958): A maid who worked at the manor from 1957 to 1960 claimed that she often saw a spectral figure in the dining room mirror. The ghost was described as wearing an old-fashioned gown and holding a candle, which flickered ominously when she entered the room.

• Charles Blackwood (2003): During a family vacation, Charles reported that his 10-year-old daughter, Emily, saw a woman in the main hall mirror. The ghost was described as wearing a Victorian dress and carrying a child who appeared to be crying.

• Dr. Elizabeth Hargreaves (2015): A paranormal researcher, Dr. Hargreaves conducted several investigations at Westwood Manor using EMF detectors, thermal imaging cameras, and EVP recorders. Her findings were inconclusive, but she reported that the mirrors often showed anomalies when no one was present.

Investigations or Research

Several organizations have conducted investigations at Westwood Manor over the years:

• The Paranormal Society (2010): A team from The Paranormal Society visited the manor in 2010 to investigate claims of paranormal activity. Using digital cameras and night vision equipment, they captured several unusual images of moving shadows in front of certain mirrors.

• Ghost Hunters International (2013): Ghost Hunters International set up a full investigation at Westwood Manor in 2013. Their equipment picked up spikes in EMF readings near the main hall mirror during late-night sessions, but no clear evidence of paranormal activity was found.

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

Despite numerous investigations and claims from residents and visitors, the identity and nature of the wraiths haunting Westwood Manor remain a mystery. Some believe they are the spirits of Lady Elizabeth More or other ancestors, while others suggest that the mirrors possess a curse passed down through generations of the More family.

Frequently Asked Questions (5 Q&A Pairs)

Q: What is the history behind the wraiths at Westwood Manor?

A: The wraiths are believed to be the spirits of Lady Elizabeth More and other ancestors who lived in the manor during the 16th century. Their spirits are said to manifest in the mirrors, particularly during moments of high emotion or stress.

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

A: Some researchers suggest that the wraiths might be a manifestation of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) or psychological phenomena related to prolonged exposure to the manor’s historical atmosphere. However, no definitive scientific explanation has been confirmed.

Q: Are there any specific times or dates when the wraiths are more likely to appear?

A: There is no concrete evidence supporting the idea that the wraiths have a particular schedule. However, many witnesses report seeing them during late-night hours and on nights with full moons.

Q: What measures can be taken to prevent or mitigate these sightings?

A: Some residents and visitors claim that using protective talismans such as crosses or crystals can help ward off the wraiths. Others recommend avoiding the manor after dark, especially near the mirrors.

Q: Can anyone visit Westwood Manor during a paranormal investigation?

A: The manor is occasionally open to the public for tours and investigations, but access is limited due to its remote location and ongoing renovations. Interested parties should contact the current owners or local paranormal organizations for more information on upcoming events.