The Keg Mansion, formerly the Massey residence (Fred Lum/The Globe and Mail/Fred Lum/The Globe and Mail)
———————————————-
Jason Kucherawy, co-founder of TourGuys.ca, is putting a skeptical twist on the city’s spookiest haunts this year. Those who go on the company’s Toronto Ghost Tour will get their share of scary details, but they’ll also be getting some science to go along with it. “At each location we talk about the history, then we talk about the ghost stories, the hauntings, the reports that have come out of that location. Then we talk about some of the possible explanations for people experiencing the paranormal,” he says. That’s not to say he’s out to rob people of a ghoulish good time. “I’m very skeptical, but I’ve been in places where I’ve felt creeped out,” he says. With Halloween just around the corner, Mr. Kucherawy gave The Globe the graveyard dirt on some of Toronto scariest sites.
1. The Keg Mansion, 515 Jarvis St.
Haunted history: Legend has it that back when it was the Massey mansion, one of the family’s servants hanged herself in the front foyer after Lillian, the Masseys’ only daughter, died, Mr. Kucherawy says. “The underlying legend is that she hanged herself not just out of grief, but because Lillian Massey was actually protecting her from a dark secret [getting out]” he adds. There are also reports that the second floor women’s washroom is haunted.
Fright factor: Throw “dark secrets” into the mix and the hairs on your neck will surely be up. The only thing to calm those nerves is a stiff drink and a T-bone. Thankfully, you’re in the right place.
2. Ryerson University Theatre School, 43 Gerrard St. E.
Haunted history: Originally opened as the Ontario School of Pharmacy, legend has it that students used to work on cadavers on the building’s third floor. “People have said if you’re alone there at night you’ll hear your name being called,” Mr. Kucherawy says. There have also been reports of people hearing the piano playing, going to look, and finding no one in the room.
Fright factor: Cadavers? Pfffft.Your name being called by ghosts? Ho hum.Theatre students!?! Run! Run as fast as you can!
3. Mackenzie House, 82 Bond St.
Haunted history: Formerly the home of William Lyon Mackenzie, the first mayor of Toronto, this is arguably the most haunted house in Toronto, Mr. Kucherawy says. “People have seen strange lights up on the third floor. They’ve seen the ghost of Mackenzie at a writing desk … the printing press in the museum at the back of the house has been known to start up and stop by itself,” he says. The ghost of an older woman with white hair has also been seen in the house.
Fright factor: Oooooh! An old-timey printing press is running! Even Scooby-Doo wouldn’t be scared of that. That white-haired ghost, on the other hand, would scare Shaggy senseless.
4. St. Michael’s Hospital, 30 Bond St.
Haunted history: Sister Vincenza, an elderly nun who passed away in the 1950s, is said to haunt the hospital, which was once run by the Sisters of St. Joseph. “Patients have described being visited by a nun in full habit, but her face is always in shadow. Vinnie [as she’s known]seems to come in and turn the lights on or off for people. There was one patient who said a nun came in to her room and put a blanket on her,” Mr. Kucherway says.
Fright factor: The best ghosts are the ones who bring you cozy stuff and then hit the lights when it’s bedtime. Terrifying.
5. Elgin And Winter Garden Theatre, 189 Yonge St.
Haunted history: The elevators, which normally require an operator, have been known to run on their own, perhaps summoned by the ghost of a woman who was stabbed to death in the early days of the theatre. “She crawled, bleeding, to the elevator, figuring that the elevator operator could help her. The elevator wasn’t there and she died,” Mr. Kucherawy says.
Fright factor: Perhaps the scariest part of this story is that the elevators still require an operator. What century is this?
6. Old City Hall, 60 Queen St. W.
Haunted history: “In Courtroom 33, judges have said they’ve felt people tugging on their robes. There’s a stairwell near that room where judges have felt hands on their back as though someone’s trying to push them down the stairs,” Mr. Kucherawy says. Some believe the room and stairwell are haunted by the ghosts of Ronald Turpin and Arthur Lucas, the last two men to hang in Canada.
Fright factor: Scarier than Mary Walsh and a This Hour Has 22 Minutes crew storming you in your driveway.
7. Hockey Hall Of Fame, 30 Yonge St.
Haunted history: Before it became a shrine to the best game you can name, it was a Bank of Montreal built in 1885. It’s haunted by a ghost named Dorothy, Mr. Kucherawy says. “She was a teller spurned by the bank manager. One night she took her own life in the bank with the manager’s pistol,” he says. “People have said they’ve heard the sound of a woman crying and they’ve gone looking for the source but couldn’t find it.”
Fright factor: That sound of crying in the Hockey Hall of Fame? It’s probably coming from a Leafs fan.
http://m.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/haunted-toronto-a-paranormal-primer/article559802/?service=mobile
I Googled “Toronto Paranormal” news and came across an interesting article that is searching for people that have a ghost or ghosts. I really hope they get some calls, especially from the GTA, because I am always up for ghost stories. The actual article is just below:
__________________________________________________________________________
A Toronto production company wants to know if you have a ghost, seriously! Big Coat Productions is producing an original series that they believe will leave audiences wondering who or what they share their homes with. One local family in Webbwood will be featured on the series, and while the crew is here, they want to know if anyone has an interesting story to share with the television public.
Read the rest of this entry
__________________________________________________________________________
A Toronto production company wants to know if you have a ghost, seriously! Big Coat Productions is producing an original series that they believe will leave audiences wondering who or what they share their homes with. One local family in Webbwood will be featured on the series, and while the crew is here, they want to know if anyone has an interesting story to share with the television public.
Read the rest of this entry
I’m going to start planning fun things to do for Halloween this year. I have Googled some Toronto Guides and I found 3 great sites that have a number of fun things to do this Halloween.
Toronto.com Halloween Guide
This site has a lot of great events for Torontonians this year 
ClubZone.com is a great site for adults who are looking for spooky club scenes!
About.com also has a number of events, as well. I listed some below too.
Saturday October 23rd & Saturday October 30th 2010
family events during the day Black Creek turns up the creep factor with ghost walks, illusions & mind reading, a haunted maze and more. Fuel up with a zombie burger and some pumpkin beer from the Black Creek Historic Brewery.
• 7pm-10:30pm, $20 in advance or $25 at the door ($5 less for members), $6 parking
Harlettes Monster Mash VII
Sunday October 31st, 2010
The Harlettes Burlesque and Vaudeville Troupe perform along with Mysterion the Mind Reader and others at Bread & Circus in Kensington Market. Prizes for best costume.
• $10 in advance, $15 at the door.
Jubilee Queen Cruises Halloween Cruise
Friday October 29 & Saturday October 30th 2010
Costumes are optional are on this cruise, but there will be a prize for best costume of the night. Enjoy a DJ, drinks and finger food while you cruise the Toronto harbour.
• Boarding 7:00pm, departs 8:00pm, docks at midnight
• $50 on Friday, $37.95 plus tax & gratuities on Saturday
Note: The organizers of the Grand Halloween event which took place at Liberty Grand, Exhibition Place in 2008 and 2009 will not be hosting that location’s event in 2010. Watch the website for 2011 details.
Halloween Events for Kids
If you have hear
d of famous Amityville Horror, then you have probably heard of Lorraine Warren and her late husband, Ed. She and her husband have investigated many other haunting and demonic cases.
d of famous Amityville Horror, then you have probably heard of Lorraine Warren and her late husband, Ed. She and her husband have investigated many other haunting and demonic cases.
I have seen them featured on A Haunting and just Lorraine on Paranormal State numerous times. I always enjoy when they are involved because I have always felt that they brought more than their expertise.
The Warrens believed in both scientific and spiritual aspects of the paranormal, as do I. They not only investigated, but they wanted to help. Their work for The New England Society for Psychic, that was founded in 1952, proved that. There are books and movies documenting those accounts, all on Wiki, as well.
There is a Face book page dedicated to this event with all the exact information and details. I am a big fan of hers so I might even be there too 
My sister-in-law just emailed my the following article, because she knew I would be interested and most likely post it on here. I think the main lesson is to always be very careful when going on paranormal investigations, whether they be for fun, or not. You never know what forces are at play when you open doors! Also, it’s not wise to mix alcohol and dark places so keep a clear head if you do wish to take a chance and explore the unknown. Ghost Hunting and investigating haunted places is no joke. I wish more people would take it more seriously. I know that accidents happen too, but I believe that we can prevent a majority of them.
————————————————————————————-
Police were treating the incident as an alcohol-fueled death by misadventure, and not as a ghost-hunting expedition gone wrong as it had been reported earlier
by: Timothy Appleby
TORONTO — The Canadian Press Last updated on Thursday, Sep. 10, 2009 04:20PM EDT
In a mishap that ignited a frenzy of speculation about ghost-hunting and the paranormal because it occurred at a 19th-century downtown university building rumored to be haunted, a 29-year-old Toronto woman plunged four storeys to her death in a small courtyard early Thursday when a chicken-wire screen she was crawling across gave way.
The unidentified woman and a 34-year-old male companion appeared drunk and said they had gained entry to 1 Spadina Cres. through a downstairs bathroom window, according to a witness who briefly spoke to the intruders and called campus police after a scream was heard.Pitched at a 45-degree angle, the chicken-wire screen connects the third and fourth floors of the building, constructed in 1875 as an annex to the Knox College Presbyterian divinity school.
The man apparently made his way across the divide successfully but the woman fell through, said the witness, who was on a late-night visit to the office of a student newspaper when he encountered the pair.
The woman was carrying some small tea candles and a pink parasol, he recounted, requesting anonymity.
“She had an assemblage of stuff, I thought she was an arty type.”
But there was nothing unusual about the couple’s appearance, he said, and nothing to indicate they were on a “ghost-hunting” mission, as has been widely suggested.
Shortly before, he had spied the pair scaling a wrought-iron fence surrounding part of the building – a pointless exercise, he said, because they could have walked around it.
“From what they told me, it was just urban exploration,” he said. “What they indicated to me, drunkenly, was that they had just happened upon the building.”
Neither of the two are believed to be university students.
Police were treating the incident as an alcohol-fueled death by misadventure.
The intricately structured Gothic-style building has a rich history. At one point it served as a medical research lab, and eight years ago a university professor was murdered there.
But police rebutted a tide of suggestions that the couple were “ghost-hunting” when the accident took place.
“I don’t know where the expression ghost-hunting came from,” said Staff Sergeant Dave Vickers, fielding a mid-morning blizzard of media inquiries.
“I think the reason [the couple] went up there was because they were trying to access a building that was rumoured to be haunted. But ghost-hunting? Somebody’s taken that to a whole new level.”
Well we were the first ones in line at the movie at the Beaches last night… we showed up more than 1/2 hr early to ensure that we would not only get in, but get good seats, as well. First off, the movie did follow the typical Hollywood bastardization of true haunting stories, in order to follow the standard for classic haunted house films; however, they did update it for today’s audience with zombie-like entities trapped in the former funeral home. The film does provide you with a scare factor, even though it’s only rated 14A. I liked the characters and how the story flowed. I do much prefer the television version of A Haunting, because the re-enactments, along with the narration of facts, in the series, certainly do amplify the scare effect, instead of quick jolts, here and there, with a lot of drama filler, like in the movie. If you enjoy B Horror films then I would definitely go see the film. If you are true to Discovery A Haunting, then you probably find it awkward, at the start. I am both, so I was able to get into the movie… even the cheesy parts too lol The movie was approx 2 hours long and not one person walked out, so it was not a bad movie. I would rate this film 3.5 out of 5 stars. I am going to pick up the book to get the full story, because I’m sure both the show and movie could not have provided all the facts and how much of it was fudged, right? As a true horror buff, I know that you will probably never see horror film actors receive an oscar for these types of films, because they will always be typical B films, yet, I did jump off my seat several times, though. I am going to buy the BluRay DVD when it comes out because the story was so very fascinating.
5 Most Haunted Buildings In Toronto, Brian McKechnie of Citynews.ca
Friday, November 7th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
Top 5 Haunted Buildings in Toronto
Friday October 31, 2008
It’s Halloween! What better way to celebrate than with some ghost stories? Here are CityNews.ca’s Top 5 Haunted Buildings in Toronto.
5. Old City HallJudges’ robes mysteriously being pulled, footsteps heard walking down deserted hallways, moans from empty holding cells in the basement – these are among the many unexplained occurrences that have been reported from Old City Hall. So what (or who) is disturbing the building? One theory is that it’s the ghosts of Robert Turpin and Arthur Lucas, the last two men sentenced to hang in Canada. Although tried for separate crimes their lawyer, Ross MacKay, believed both men to be innocent. Whether it’s the spirit of disgruntled criminals or just an old creepy building is up to you to decide.4. The Royal York Hotel
The Royal York Hotel has been a fixture on Toronto’s cityscape since 1929. When it opened it was thetallest building in the British Commonwealth. It has welcomed more than 40 million visitors over the years and is still one of the nicest buildings (inside and out) standing in this city. Could it be haunted? According to John Robert Colombo’s book Mysteries of Ontario, the eighth floor has the spirit of an older man with grey hair walking the halls at night. And a report on The Toronto Ghosts and Hauntings Research Society website mentions the ghost of a former employee who hanged himself in the staircase leading up to the roof.
3. Keg Mansion
Go for the steak, hang with the ghost. Literally. The best-known haunting at the Keg Mansion (located on Jarvis St. just North of Wellesley St.) is that of a maid who hanged herself when the Massey Family owned the house. Supposedly you can still see her hanging from a rope in the front entrance some nights. Other reports include the sound of children running and playing in the kitchen and upper floors and some creepy sightings in the women’s washroom. As long as they don’t affect the food I think the ghosts add a nice ambiance to the restaurant. Bon Appétit!
2. The Guild Inn
A recent article on blogTO reminded me how much history the Guild Inn has and just how terrifying it can be. Located on top of the Scarborough Bluffs it was originally built to be the summer home of Colonel Harold Bickford. Over the years it has been a missionary college, museum, military hospital, a hotel and now an abandoned building. With such a sordid past it’s no wonder there are reports of paranormal activity. Loud noises at night, random temperature drops, door handles rattling and visions of a young soldier with one blue eye and one brown. Spooky.
1. The Old Don Jail
The Old Don Jail housed a lot of evil in its time. Many hangings took place at the indoor gallows (including the last two men to hang: Arthur Lucas and Robert Turpin) and inmates were not always treated well. Last year human remains were found in an unmarked burial site on the grounds. All this leads to a lot of stories – ghost stories. The one I’ve heard over and over is that of an angry female inmate. Supposedly she hanged herself in her cell one night and has haunted the jail ever since (and she’s angry). Other stories I’ve heard have mentioned cold spots or spots where people feel anxious for no reason. All I know is that the building gives me the chills whenever I’m around it and that’s why it’s number one on my list.
Have stories of your own on these or any other buildings in Toronto? Send them tobrian.mckechnie@citynews.ca and I’ll post them in the story. Happy Halloween!
Photo Credits: Old City Hall photo by Brian McKechnie, Keg Mansion photo courtesy Wikipedia, Don Jail Photo courtesy Wikipedia
Filed under: Daily • Haunted • ParaBooks • ParaTO
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Five Fun Things to Do in Toronto for Halloween 2008
Thursday, October 9th, 2008 at 3:11 pm
Five Fun Things to Do in Toronto for Halloween
By Jane McLean, About.com
1. Go On a Toronto Ghost WalkMuddy York Walking Tours offers various walking tours that explore Toronto’s past in fun and often spooky and surprising ways.
Tel: 416.487.9017
Email: richard@muddyyorktours.com
2. Carve Pumpkins at Riverdale Farm
Especially suitable for kids under 10, the Riverdale Farm is 7.5 acres of greenland set in the heart of Toronto and features a variety of animals that can be visited at close range. In the spirit of Halloween, Boo Barn will delight children rather than give them a real scare.
This replica of early 20th century Ontario farm life lets kids step inside a world where cell phones, fast food and TV do not exist.
Riverdale Farm is in Old Cabbagetown, a beautifully gentrified and historic part of town, well worth visiting after carving your pumpkin.
3. Scare Yourself Silly at Screemers Better Dead Centre, Exhibition Place
Since 1992, Screemers indoor scream park has been scaring the bejeezus out of visitors. Six walkthrough haunted features, a theatre presentation and unlimited carnival rides on the Midway of Madness are included in the admission price to this fright fest.
Tel: 416-979-FEAR
4. Go to Boo at the Zoo
Free with Toronto Zoo admission, this annual event features storytelling, a creepy walk, magic and more.
Tel: 416-392-5929
5. Take a Halloween Cruise
Don your best costume and hop aboard a Jubilee Queen Halloween Cruise. One of the best ways to see Toronto by night.More Canada Travel Quick Tips
Filed under: CanPara • Daily • Halloween • ParaTO
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GTA’s Magic Hill Haunted Farm
Tuesday, October 7th, 2008 at 9:40 pm
North of Toronto is where you will find Magic Hill farm that will offer you haunted adventures. There are several attractions from the 150 year old Haunted Barn to the Black Cavern which is known to be the scariest of them all!It was originally a dairy farm owned & operated by The Howards and only became a place of fear after the terror that was discovered. As the story goes, Mrs. Howard gave birth to monster years ago and they say he leapt out of her at the turn of the road where the hayride goes by. The Howards built a cage for this monster, known as Cavendish, in the barn. No one knew about this and somehow he would get out and whomever would visit the farm often didn’t leave. As years went by and the bodies and their ghosts piled up the suspicious towns people of Stouffvile grew weary and eventually people heard about the Cavendish monster all over southern Ontario. Today you can go on a Hay Ride, Terror Trail Trek or another attraction and you might get the bonus glimpse of a little something spooky too! Click if you dare!!
Filed under: Daily • Halloween • Haunted • ParaTO
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CTV Toronto Toronto Events For This Weekend – Some Paranormal!
Toronto’s Nuit Blanche set to light up the night
toronto.ctv.ca
Downtown Toronto will pull an all-nighter this weekend when artists take over the streets for the second annual Scotiabank Nuit Blanche.
The event, which runs from 7 p.m. on Saturday to 7 a.m. on Sunday, will feature 195 different art projects in three different zones.
About 425,000 people attended the innovative event last year.
If you want to go, but don’t have all night to take in the exhibits, here’s a list of some that look exceptionally intriguing.
Zone A
The Ghost Station
Lower Bay Station, Toronto’s ghost subway station, will set the stage for a show featuring noises deep below the rumbling of the city. These sounds have also been associated with paranormal activity and ghost sightings.
A-9 — Lower Bay TTC Station, Installation entrance at Cumberland St. and Bellair St.
Read the rest of this entry
Toronto’s Nuit Blanche set to light up the night
toronto.ctv.ca
Downtown Toronto will pull an all-nighter this weekend when artists take over the streets for the second annual Scotiabank Nuit Blanche.
The event, which runs from 7 p.m. on Saturday to 7 a.m. on Sunday, will feature 195 different art projects in three different zones.
About 425,000 people attended the innovative event last year.
If you want to go, but don’t have all night to take in the exhibits, here’s a list of some that look exceptionally intriguing.
Zone A
The Ghost Station
Lower Bay Station, Toronto’s ghost subway station, will set the stage for a show featuring noises deep below the rumbling of the city. These sounds have also been associated with paranormal activity and ghost sightings.
A-9 — Lower Bay TTC Station, Installation entrance at Cumberland St. and Bellair St.
Read the rest of this entry
Toronto’s Top 10 Places (Some Said To Be Haunted!)
Top tourist attractions a matter of some debate
While there is not an official list of Toronto’s Top 10 Tourist Attractions, given the difficulties measuring attendance at some venues compared to others, many lists and online surveys feature the same “must sees” for both visitors and residents. Here is Toronto Community News’ list of attractions, compiled from information from Tourism Toronto and a number of other tourism websites, and presented in no particular order.The attractions we list are located within the geographic boundaries of the City of Toronto:
• The CN Tower: Once the world’s tallest free-standing structure (that honour has recently been taken by a building in Dubai), the CN Tower dominates Toronto’s skyline and is an obvious magnet for visitors. Standing more than 500 metres tall, the tower receives approximately two million visitors annually. Address: 01 Front St. W.; visit www.cntower.ca.
• Toronto islands: Made up of Wards, Hanlan’s Point and Centre islands, the Toronto islands have been a playground for generations of residents and visitors. The islands can be accessed by ferry boat rides from the terminal at the lake just west of Yonge Street and feature numerous activities for visitors including an amusement park on Centre Island. Visit www.centreisland.ca.
• Ontario Place: Opened in 1971, the 96-acre facility south of Lake Shore Boulevard and west of Bathurst Street features water parks, a concert theatre, activities for children and the iconic golf-ball shaped Cinesphere theatre. Address: 955 Lake Shore Boulevard W.; visit www.ontarioplace.com.
• Toronto Zoo: Located on Meadowvale Road, north of Hwy. 401, the zoo opened in 1974 and is home to some 5,000 animals. The 710-acre facility receives about 1.2 million visitors annually. Address: 361A Old Finch Ave.; visit www.torontozoo.com.
• Black Creek Pioneer Village: This recreation of a Canadian pioneer settlement from the 1790s to 1860s is located in the Keele Street and Steeles Avenue area adjacent to the York University campus. Address: 1000 Murray Ross Pkwy.; visit www.blackcreek.ca.
• Casa Loma: Built by Sir Henry Pellat starting in 1911, Casa Loma took three years and more than $3 million to build. Today it stands as an imposing castle the city. Address: 1 Austin Terrace; visitwww.casaloma.org.
• Ontario Science Centre: Opened in 1969, The Ontario Science Centre provides a wide variety of experiences for visitors young and old. Along with exhibits, there is also a domed IMAX theatre. 770 Don Mills Rd.; visit www.ontariosciencecentre.ca.
• Royal Ontario Museum: Now featuring the new Michael Lee Chin Crystal as part of its dramatic new facade, the ROM has been Toronto’s museum since 1914. The ROM features numerous displays and exhibits. Address: 100 Queen’s Park; visit www.rom.on.ca.
• Hockey Hall of Fame: A mecca for fans of the game from around the world, the facility covers all aspects of hockey’s history, including the honoured members of the Hall of Fame, and features numerous interactive exhibits. The Hockey Hall of Fame is also the permanent home of the Stanley Cup. Address: 30 Yonge St.; visit www.hhof.com.
• Rogers Centre: When it first opened as the SkyDome, the stadium drew crowds just to experience its retractable roof opening and closing. The stadium is home to the Toronto Blue Jays of Major League Baseball and the Canadian Football League’s Toronto Argonauts. The facility also features restaurants and a hotel looking onto the field of play. Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, visit www.rogerscentre.com.
Top tourist attractions a matter of some debate
While there is not an official list of Toronto’s Top 10 Tourist Attractions, given the difficulties measuring attendance at some venues compared to others, many lists and online surveys feature the same “must sees” for both visitors and residents. Here is Toronto Community News’ list of attractions, compiled from information from Tourism Toronto and a number of other tourism websites, and presented in no particular order.The attractions we list are located within the geographic boundaries of the City of Toronto:
• The CN Tower: Once the world’s tallest free-standing structure (that honour has recently been taken by a building in Dubai), the CN Tower dominates Toronto’s skyline and is an obvious magnet for visitors. Standing more than 500 metres tall, the tower receives approximately two million visitors annually. Address: 01 Front St. W.; visit www.cntower.ca.
• Toronto islands: Made up of Wards, Hanlan’s Point and Centre islands, the Toronto islands have been a playground for generations of residents and visitors. The islands can be accessed by ferry boat rides from the terminal at the lake just west of Yonge Street and feature numerous activities for visitors including an amusement park on Centre Island. Visit www.centreisland.ca.
• Ontario Place: Opened in 1971, the 96-acre facility south of Lake Shore Boulevard and west of Bathurst Street features water parks, a concert theatre, activities for children and the iconic golf-ball shaped Cinesphere theatre. Address: 955 Lake Shore Boulevard W.; visit www.ontarioplace.com.
• Toronto Zoo: Located on Meadowvale Road, north of Hwy. 401, the zoo opened in 1974 and is home to some 5,000 animals. The 710-acre facility receives about 1.2 million visitors annually. Address: 361A Old Finch Ave.; visit www.torontozoo.com.
• Black Creek Pioneer Village: This recreation of a Canadian pioneer settlement from the 1790s to 1860s is located in the Keele Street and Steeles Avenue area adjacent to the York University campus. Address: 1000 Murray Ross Pkwy.; visit www.blackcreek.ca.
• Casa Loma: Built by Sir Henry Pellat starting in 1911, Casa Loma took three years and more than $3 million to build. Today it stands as an imposing castle the city. Address: 1 Austin Terrace; visitwww.casaloma.org.
• Ontario Science Centre: Opened in 1969, The Ontario Science Centre provides a wide variety of experiences for visitors young and old. Along with exhibits, there is also a domed IMAX theatre. 770 Don Mills Rd.; visit www.ontariosciencecentre.ca.
• Royal Ontario Museum: Now featuring the new Michael Lee Chin Crystal as part of its dramatic new facade, the ROM has been Toronto’s museum since 1914. The ROM features numerous displays and exhibits. Address: 100 Queen’s Park; visit www.rom.on.ca.
• Hockey Hall of Fame: A mecca for fans of the game from around the world, the facility covers all aspects of hockey’s history, including the honoured members of the Hall of Fame, and features numerous interactive exhibits. The Hockey Hall of Fame is also the permanent home of the Stanley Cup. Address: 30 Yonge St.; visit www.hhof.com.
• Rogers Centre: When it first opened as the SkyDome, the stadium drew crowds just to experience its retractable roof opening and closing. The stadium is home to the Toronto Blue Jays of Major League Baseball and the Canadian Football League’s Toronto Argonauts. The facility also features restaurants and a hotel looking onto the field of play. Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, visit www.rogerscentre.com.
While there is not an official list of Toronto’s Top 10 Tourist Attractions, given the difficulties measuring attendance at some venues compared to others, many lists and online surveys feature the same “must sees” for both visitors and residents. Here is Toronto Community News’ list of attractions, compiled from information from Tourism Toronto and a number of other tourism websites, and presented in no particular order.The attractions we list are located within the geographic boundaries of the City of Toronto:
• The CN Tower: Once the world’s tallest free-standing structure (that honour has recently been taken by a building in Dubai), the CN Tower dominates Toronto’s skyline and is an obvious magnet for visitors. Standing more than 500 metres tall, the tower receives approximately two million visitors annually. Address: 01 Front St. W.; visit www.cntower.ca.
• Toronto islands: Made up of Wards, Hanlan’s Point and Centre islands, the Toronto islands have been a playground for generations of residents and visitors. The islands can be accessed by ferry boat rides from the terminal at the lake just west of Yonge Street and feature numerous activities for visitors including an amusement park on Centre Island. Visit www.centreisland.ca.
• Ontario Place: Opened in 1971, the 96-acre facility south of Lake Shore Boulevard and west of Bathurst Street features water parks, a concert theatre, activities for children and the iconic golf-ball shaped Cinesphere theatre. Address: 955 Lake Shore Boulevard W.; visit www.ontarioplace.com.
• Toronto Zoo: Located on Meadowvale Road, north of Hwy. 401, the zoo opened in 1974 and is home to some 5,000 animals. The 710-acre facility receives about 1.2 million visitors annually. Address: 361A Old Finch Ave.; visit www.torontozoo.com.
• Black Creek Pioneer Village: This recreation of a Canadian pioneer settlement from the 1790s to 1860s is located in the Keele Street and Steeles Avenue area adjacent to the York University campus. Address: 1000 Murray Ross Pkwy.; visit www.blackcreek.ca.
• Casa Loma: Built by Sir Henry Pellat starting in 1911, Casa Loma took three years and more than $3 million to build. Today it stands as an imposing castle the city. Address: 1 Austin Terrace; visitwww.casaloma.org.
• Ontario Science Centre: Opened in 1969, The Ontario Science Centre provides a wide variety of experiences for visitors young and old. Along with exhibits, there is also a domed IMAX theatre. 770 Don Mills Rd.; visit www.ontariosciencecentre.ca.
• Royal Ontario Museum: Now featuring the new Michael Lee Chin Crystal as part of its dramatic new facade, the ROM has been Toronto’s museum since 1914. The ROM features numerous displays and exhibits. Address: 100 Queen’s Park; visit www.rom.on.ca.
• Hockey Hall of Fame: A mecca for fans of the game from around the world, the facility covers all aspects of hockey’s history, including the honoured members of the Hall of Fame, and features numerous interactive exhibits. The Hockey Hall of Fame is also the permanent home of the Stanley Cup. Address: 30 Yonge St.; visit www.hhof.com.
• Rogers Centre: When it first opened as the SkyDome, the stadium drew crowds just to experience its retractable roof opening and closing. The stadium is home to the Toronto Blue Jays of Major League Baseball and the Canadian Football League’s Toronto Argonauts. The facility also features restaurants and a hotel looking onto the field of play. Address: 1 Blue Jays Way, visit www.rogerscentre.com.
Dinner & Drinks At The Haunted Keg Mansion On Jarvis ~ Paranormal Activity
Last night hubby and I were running a bit late and didn’t end up going out for dinner until past 9:30pm! We headed downtown looking for a place that served Steak & Seafood. I suggested the Keg Mansion because the food is good, there is a lot of history, the ambiance is wonderful and it’s said to be haunted! My husband loved the idea too so we drove right over. Parking for customers is free so that was great and we were seated right away, but not before I got some information from the hostess. I asked her where the most activity was. She answered casually stating that we would find some if we went up the staircase to the second floor by the bar. I was like, “no”, “I meant paranormal activity”. She responded, “so did I”! She went on to tell us that we could eat on the main floor and then go upstairs to see. She went on to tell us that the 2nd floor lady’s bathroom is another spot and that sometimes woman have been locked in the stalls because “that is where Mrs. Massey died”. She said to go up to the 3rd floor and take a peek too, even though it is locked. I was so excited, I couldn’t even wait for dinner to be over! The meal was very good and the room we were in was so amazing, with the detailed wood work, stain glass windows, fireplace encased with glazed colorful tiles. Every inch of that room had such fine hand craftsmanship, so much so, that I could not stop looking around. The feeling I was getting was very strong energy and I felt very alive! I wasn’t afraid at all and I kind of felt that the spirits there liked all the attention or energy the Keg patrons were giving them. After our meal we were left to venture about the mansion! It was so wild and such a trip. I went to the ladies room and instructed my husband to save me if I wasn’t back in 5 minutes lol Nothing happened, I didn’t see any ghosts at all, so I met him outside. I was very drawn to this oval like vestibule that overlooked the main entrance. I referenced Haunted Toronto by John Robert Columbo and found out that’s where one of Mrs. Massey’s maids had hung herself after finding Mrs. Massey dead. Then after our look around the 2nd floor we headed up to the 3rd. A couple of fellows were right behind us and talking about how the Keg Mansion is haunted. I was right up front in center peeking in the locked glass door, it was dimly lit and I could make out a large painting and a couple other rooms. My husband was right behind me shining his cell phone over my head to help me see better. The two gentlemen asked if we saw anything… I responded, “nope”. Even still, just being in such a grand and charming home, like the Keg Mansion, was enough for me. Next time maybe I’ll bring my Ouija and go up to the middle of the 2nd floor, by the window, and have a seat at the built in cushioned bench. lol Honestly I am too chicken to mess with Ouija! I heard demons actually communicate and not spirits so I think it is best to leave it alone. Anyways, I rate the Keg Mansion 4.5 stars out of 5! I will be back and if you see someone with a Ouija there, or Tarot cards, then you’ll know who it is
Haunted Keg Mansion In Downtown Toronto
For more information on the Keg Mansion please pick up a copy of Haunted Toronto
or visit the links belowhttp://en.kegsteakhouse.com/locations/Ontario/Toronto/Mansion_Keghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keg_Mansion
Last night hubby and I were running a bit late and didn’t end up going out for dinner until past 9:30pm! We headed downtown looking for a place that served Steak & Seafood. I suggested the Keg Mansion because the food is good, there is a lot of history, the ambiance is wonderful and it’s said to be haunted! My husband loved the idea too so we drove right over. Parking for customers is free so that was great and we were seated right away, but not before I got some information from the hostess. I asked her where the most activity was. She answered casually stating that we would find some if we went up the staircase to the second floor by the bar. I was like, “no”, “I meant paranormal activity”. She responded, “so did I”! She went on to tell us that we could eat on the main floor and then go upstairs to see. She went on to tell us that the 2nd floor lady’s bathroom is another spot and that sometimes woman have been locked in the stalls because “that is where Mrs. Massey died”. She said to go up to the 3rd floor and take a peek too, even though it is locked. I was so excited, I couldn’t even wait for dinner to be over! The meal was very good and the room we were in was so amazing, with the detailed wood work, stain glass windows, fireplace encased with glazed colorful tiles. Every inch of that room had such fine hand craftsmanship, so much so, that I could not stop looking around. The feeling I was getting was very strong energy and I felt very alive! I wasn’t afraid at all and I kind of felt that the spirits there liked all the attention or energy the Keg patrons were giving them. After our meal we were left to venture about the mansion! It was so wild and such a trip. I went to the ladies room and instructed my husband to save me if I wasn’t back in 5 minutes lol Nothing happened, I didn’t see any ghosts at all, so I met him outside. I was very drawn to this oval like vestibule that overlooked the main entrance. I referenced Haunted Toronto by John Robert Columbo and found out that’s where one of Mrs. Massey’s maids had hung herself after finding Mrs. Massey dead. Then after our look around the 2nd floor we headed up to the 3rd. A couple of fellows were right behind us and talking about how the Keg Mansion is haunted. I was right up front in center peeking in the locked glass door, it was dimly lit and I could make out a large painting and a couple other rooms. My husband was right behind me shining his cell phone over my head to help me see better. The two gentlemen asked if we saw anything… I responded, “nope”. Even still, just being in such a grand and charming home, like the Keg Mansion, was enough for me. Next time maybe I’ll bring my Ouija and go up to the middle of the 2nd floor, by the window, and have a seat at the built in cushioned bench. lol Honestly I am too chicken to mess with Ouija! I heard demons actually communicate and not spirits so I think it is best to leave it alone. Anyways, I rate the Keg Mansion 4.5 stars out of 5! I will be back and if you see someone with a Ouija there, or Tarot cards, then you’ll know who it is
For more information on the Keg Mansion please pick up a copy of Haunted Toronto
or visit the links belowhttp://en.kegsteakhouse.com/locations/Ontario/Toronto/Mansion_Keghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keg_Mansion
Haunted Keg Mansion In Downtown Toronto
or visit the links belowhttp://en.kegsteakhouse.com/locations/Ontario/Toronto/Mansion_Keghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keg_Mansion
200 years of lighting the lakes T.O. Island lighthouse full of history
By KEN BROWN, SUN MEDIA
For California resident Ted English, yesterday’s 200th anniversary of Toronto’s oldest building meant even more for him because it involved the celebration of family.
The western end of Toronto Island is home to the 200-year-old Gibralter Point lighthouse, and English is a member of the Durnan family, which has a long history with the island and its lighthouse.
“It means an awful lot,” said English, 79, who organized a reunion of more than 50 of his Durnan relatives, some of whom he had never met, to coincide with the event.
Completed in 1808, it’s the oldest working lighthouse on the Great Lakes and the second oldest in Canada. (The Sambro lighthouse in Nova Scotia began operating in 1759.)
The third keeper of the Gibralter Point lighthouse was English’s great-great-grandfather James Durnan.
“It’s much more than a lighthouse,” said English, a former Toronto Island resident himself. “It’s a keystone of the whole family”
There is more than 170 years of Durnan history on the island, English said, and for some of his ancestors the lighthouse acts as a headstone.
“You walked over Durnans there,” he pointed out.
Yesterday’s celebration was co-hosted by Heritage Toronto and Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation.
Ceremonies began with a theatrical account of the lighthouse’s history by Shadowland Theatre. The crowd of a few hundred were then marched over to the landmark by fife and drum.
Behind limestone walls 2 metres thick rises an 80-step spiral staircase, and visitors were invited to climb to the top after the ceremonies.
Ray Skema, 53, was in the first group to make the ascent, and he said as a Torontonian it felt great to be up there.
“This is like the best time ever just to be in this historic building,” Skema said. “It was cool to be here for the anniversary and be part of the first 10 people to tour it.”
The building is said to be haunted by the ghost of John Paul Rademuller, the lighthouse’s first keeper.
City Councillor Pam McConnell said the Rademuller haunting is a great story for kids, but the building means a great deal to the city.
“It isn’t just a children’s story,” she said, adding it’s great to bring Toronto’s stories to people in a simple way. “It really is about the beginnings of our city of Toronto.”
Heritage Toronto unveiled two commemorative plaques at the base of the lighthouse.
*************************************************************************************
For the actual article and video clip, please see the link below:
http://www.torontosun.com/News/TorontoAndGTA/2008/07/06/6078306-sun.html
*************************************************************************************
By KEN BROWN, SUN MEDIA
For California resident Ted English, yesterday’s 200th anniversary of Toronto’s oldest building meant even more for him because it involved the celebration of family.The western end of Toronto Island is home to the 200-year-old Gibralter Point lighthouse, and English is a member of the Durnan family, which has a long history with the island and its lighthouse.
“It means an awful lot,” said English, 79, who organized a reunion of more than 50 of his Durnan relatives, some of whom he had never met, to coincide with the event.
Completed in 1808, it’s the oldest working lighthouse on the Great Lakes and the second oldest in Canada. (The Sambro lighthouse in Nova Scotia began operating in 1759.)
The third keeper of the Gibralter Point lighthouse was English’s great-great-grandfather James Durnan.
“It’s much more than a lighthouse,” said English, a former Toronto Island resident himself. “It’s a keystone of the whole family”
There is more than 170 years of Durnan history on the island, English said, and for some of his ancestors the lighthouse acts as a headstone.
“You walked over Durnans there,” he pointed out.
Yesterday’s celebration was co-hosted by Heritage Toronto and Toronto Parks, Forestry and Recreation.
Ceremonies began with a theatrical account of the lighthouse’s history by Shadowland Theatre. The crowd of a few hundred were then marched over to the landmark by fife and drum.
Behind limestone walls 2 metres thick rises an 80-step spiral staircase, and visitors were invited to climb to the top after the ceremonies.
Ray Skema, 53, was in the first group to make the ascent, and he said as a Torontonian it felt great to be up there.
“This is like the best time ever just to be in this historic building,” Skema said. “It was cool to be here for the anniversary and be part of the first 10 people to tour it.”
The building is said to be haunted by the ghost of John Paul Rademuller, the lighthouse’s first keeper.
City Councillor Pam McConnell said the Rademuller haunting is a great story for kids, but the building means a great deal to the city.
“It isn’t just a children’s story,” she said, adding it’s great to bring Toronto’s stories to people in a simple way. “It really is about the beginnings of our city of Toronto.”
Heritage Toronto unveiled two commemorative plaques at the base of the lighthouse.
*************************************************************************************
For the actual article and video clip, please see the link below:
http://www.torontosun.com/News/TorontoAndGTA/2008/07/06/6078306-sun.html
*************************************************************************************
Mystery of the shoe in the wall
Jun 22, 2008 04:30 AM
The child’s canvas shoe, entombed for decades, has the grey, dead look of a flattened mouse. Holes in the toe and the heel are roughly stitched with red thread, and a scrap of dark cotton has been poorly sewn to the rubber sole.
I’m loath to touch this object, which my husband found within the plaster walls of the small house in Etobicoke we’re rebuilding, and long to throw it away. Yet there is mystery to it. Who did it belong to? Why was it hidden? Was it lost or put there purposely? If the latter, for what reason?
We’d found other discards in the course of construction. Whisky bottles from Gooderham & Worts fell out of the eaves. Vanilla extract bottles, mustard tins and an OXO mug were retrieved from beneath the floorboards.
Most often we found what we took to be remnants of workers’ lunches – milk bottles, the remains of a pork chop, magazines (we presume they were used to wrap food) including Canadian Motorist, Live Stories (sentimental tales for women readers) and a cowboy adventure periodical called Ace-High Magazine. They are all from June 1925 – we can imagine a family 83 years ago doing what we are doing this summer, building a house.
But there was something poignant and haunting about this shabby running shoe – its poverty, of course, but also the fact that a child, perhaps a 6-year-old, had worn the life out of it.
A visiting friend with some knowledge of folklore believed the shoe had a function. She was familiar with the centuries-old English superstition of secreting shoes during house construction for good luck. They have a name: “concealed” or “concealment shoes.”
A call to Elizabeth Semmelhack, curator of Toronto’s Bata Shoe Museum, provides details. She gets inquiries from homeowners who have found shoes while renovating 19th- and early-20th-century houses. (In Britain, the practice is so common there’s a registry of concealed shoes.) The Bata, the world’s largest shoe museum, has one concealed shoe – a desiccated man’s work shoe – in its collection of 13,000.
Strangely, when she talks about the most common concealed shoe, it seems she’s describing the very one we found. “Typically, it’s a child shoe and it’s well-worn, extremely well-worn,” she says. “Who had the money to put a brand new pair of shoes in a wall? Often, it’s a single shoe, put in to keep away bad luck, though it’s morphed into a symbol of good luck.”
The metal aglets – sleeves on the tips of the laces – are a clue that our shoe dates from the Twenties or Thirties. Eventually, looking at a photo of it, Semmelhack can’t say definitively that the shoe is of that vintage or is indeed a concealed shoe, but it seems likely.
The shabby patch job is another hint. “It looks like the repair had nothing to do with making the shoe more wearable,” she says. “That makes it more likely it was repaired to function in an apotropaic role in the wall rather for the child to wear it again.” “Apotropaic,” she explains, is the term for an object used as a talisman to ward off evil, like a charm bracelet. By stitching the shoe, it became more of a vessel to contain bad spirits.
When she renovated her Danforth-area house, Semmelhack concealed a pair of her husband’s shoes with a note explaining why his Kenneth Coles were in the walls.
Most often concealed shoes are placed in chimneys or over doors and windows – “areas of the house considered susceptible, or weak, where something could come into the property,” says Josephine Hickin, shoe heritage development officer at the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery in England.
She adds that shoes are one of the few personal items that retain the shape and, according to some beliefs, carry the spirit of the owner. The concealed shoe is connected with the animist notion that the shoe is “protected by the spirit of the owner. And children are believed to have a stronger spirits than adults.”
Traditionally, shoes have been symbols of authority also linked to fertility – remember the old tradition of tying old shoes to the car bumper of newlyweds – and good luck.
The study of concealed shoes began in 1957 when June Swann, keeper of the boot and shoe collection at the Northampton Museum, and a fellow curator each received a half-dozen shoes for identification. Most had been hidden near chimneys. Swann could find no literature on shoes concealed in houses. She wrote in a 1996 article in Costume Society Journal about how her curiosity was piqued especially by the discovery of a pair of child’s boots in the thatched roof of a cottage in Northamptonshire. “I had this vision of a tiny child on the thatched roof,” Swann, now 79 and retired, told the Star, “and I wondered, `What kind of family does this?’ … Not being superstitious, it took me a long while to convince myself that all my finds were (put there deliberately).”
Since then, the Northampton Museum has become a repository of concealed shoes. It has a collection of 246 of them and a database recording some 1,700 hidden shoes found around the world. Some are from Ontario – including a pair of brown boots, from 1830 to 1845, discovered in a house in Palgrave, and six ankle boots, dating from 1870, from a house in Kincardine.
Most of the shoes in the index are from Britain, but concealed shoes have been reported in Germany, France, Australia and the eastern U.S., especially the New England states. While a few date from the 15th century, the practice appears to have grown more common after that, peaking in the 19th century and then falling away after the 1930s.
Almost all are thoroughly worn, most beyond repair, and suggest working-class owners; nearly half are children’s shoes. Some have been found with knives or other sharp objects, chicken bones or cat bones and may be linked to some kind of ritual sacrifice. (We also found a pair of skate blades in our walls.)
Swann notes in another article that the study of concealed shoes is incomplete, in part because of the “reticence of the finders of footwear, which is usually in a disgusting condition,” and because tradesmen working on old houses will discard shoes, not knowing their significance.
We know, from searching property records, a farmer named William Golding owned our Etobicoke house in the early 1920s. But by 1925 it belonged to Thomas Bruce, whose name appears on the magazine labels. and who was a stock keeper and salesman for Hyslop Brothers, a bicycle manufacturer at Victoria and Shuter Sts. Golding may have left the house unfinished – some dwellings in the area were built as cottages – and Bruce may have put in the plaster walls.
Following the Northampton Museum’s recommendation, we will likely return the shoe to the walls, not out of superstition, but in the spirit of continuity. And we will adopt a new perspective on the shoe as suggested by Elizabeth Semmelhack, who says, “Think of it as a symbol of a new beginning for those people. They have a child and want to keep bad luck at bay.
“The shoe is devoted to hope in the future.”
Jun 22, 2008 04:30 AM
The child’s canvas shoe, entombed for decades, has the grey, dead look of a flattened mouse. Holes in the toe and the heel are roughly stitched with red thread, and a scrap of dark cotton has been poorly sewn to the rubber sole.
I’m loath to touch this object, which my husband found within the plaster walls of the small house in Etobicoke we’re rebuilding, and long to throw it away. Yet there is mystery to it. Who did it belong to? Why was it hidden? Was it lost or put there purposely? If the latter, for what reason?
We’d found other discards in the course of construction. Whisky bottles from Gooderham & Worts fell out of the eaves. Vanilla extract bottles, mustard tins and an OXO mug were retrieved from beneath the floorboards.
Most often we found what we took to be remnants of workers’ lunches – milk bottles, the remains of a pork chop, magazines (we presume they were used to wrap food) including Canadian Motorist, Live Stories (sentimental tales for women readers) and a cowboy adventure periodical called Ace-High Magazine. They are all from June 1925 – we can imagine a family 83 years ago doing what we are doing this summer, building a house.
But there was something poignant and haunting about this shabby running shoe – its poverty, of course, but also the fact that a child, perhaps a 6-year-old, had worn the life out of it.
A visiting friend with some knowledge of folklore believed the shoe had a function. She was familiar with the centuries-old English superstition of secreting shoes during house construction for good luck. They have a name: “concealed” or “concealment shoes.”
A call to Elizabeth Semmelhack, curator of Toronto’s Bata Shoe Museum, provides details. She gets inquiries from homeowners who have found shoes while renovating 19th- and early-20th-century houses. (In Britain, the practice is so common there’s a registry of concealed shoes.) The Bata, the world’s largest shoe museum, has one concealed shoe – a desiccated man’s work shoe – in its collection of 13,000.
Strangely, when she talks about the most common concealed shoe, it seems she’s describing the very one we found. “Typically, it’s a child shoe and it’s well-worn, extremely well-worn,” she says. “Who had the money to put a brand new pair of shoes in a wall? Often, it’s a single shoe, put in to keep away bad luck, though it’s morphed into a symbol of good luck.”
The metal aglets – sleeves on the tips of the laces – are a clue that our shoe dates from the Twenties or Thirties. Eventually, looking at a photo of it, Semmelhack can’t say definitively that the shoe is of that vintage or is indeed a concealed shoe, but it seems likely.
The shabby patch job is another hint. “It looks like the repair had nothing to do with making the shoe more wearable,” she says. “That makes it more likely it was repaired to function in an apotropaic role in the wall rather for the child to wear it again.” “Apotropaic,” she explains, is the term for an object used as a talisman to ward off evil, like a charm bracelet. By stitching the shoe, it became more of a vessel to contain bad spirits.
When she renovated her Danforth-area house, Semmelhack concealed a pair of her husband’s shoes with a note explaining why his Kenneth Coles were in the walls.
Most often concealed shoes are placed in chimneys or over doors and windows – “areas of the house considered susceptible, or weak, where something could come into the property,” says Josephine Hickin, shoe heritage development officer at the Northampton Museum and Art Gallery in England.
She adds that shoes are one of the few personal items that retain the shape and, according to some beliefs, carry the spirit of the owner. The concealed shoe is connected with the animist notion that the shoe is “protected by the spirit of the owner. And children are believed to have a stronger spirits than adults.”
Traditionally, shoes have been symbols of authority also linked to fertility – remember the old tradition of tying old shoes to the car bumper of newlyweds – and good luck.
The study of concealed shoes began in 1957 when June Swann, keeper of the boot and shoe collection at the Northampton Museum, and a fellow curator each received a half-dozen shoes for identification. Most had been hidden near chimneys. Swann could find no literature on shoes concealed in houses. She wrote in a 1996 article in Costume Society Journal about how her curiosity was piqued especially by the discovery of a pair of child’s boots in the thatched roof of a cottage in Northamptonshire. “I had this vision of a tiny child on the thatched roof,” Swann, now 79 and retired, told the Star, “and I wondered, `What kind of family does this?’ … Not being superstitious, it took me a long while to convince myself that all my finds were (put there deliberately).”
Since then, the Northampton Museum has become a repository of concealed shoes. It has a collection of 246 of them and a database recording some 1,700 hidden shoes found around the world. Some are from Ontario – including a pair of brown boots, from 1830 to 1845, discovered in a house in Palgrave, and six ankle boots, dating from 1870, from a house in Kincardine.
Most of the shoes in the index are from Britain, but concealed shoes have been reported in Germany, France, Australia and the eastern U.S., especially the New England states. While a few date from the 15th century, the practice appears to have grown more common after that, peaking in the 19th century and then falling away after the 1930s.
Almost all are thoroughly worn, most beyond repair, and suggest working-class owners; nearly half are children’s shoes. Some have been found with knives or other sharp objects, chicken bones or cat bones and may be linked to some kind of ritual sacrifice. (We also found a pair of skate blades in our walls.)
Swann notes in another article that the study of concealed shoes is incomplete, in part because of the “reticence of the finders of footwear, which is usually in a disgusting condition,” and because tradesmen working on old houses will discard shoes, not knowing their significance.
We know, from searching property records, a farmer named William Golding owned our Etobicoke house in the early 1920s. But by 1925 it belonged to Thomas Bruce, whose name appears on the magazine labels. and who was a stock keeper and salesman for Hyslop Brothers, a bicycle manufacturer at Victoria and Shuter Sts. Golding may have left the house unfinished – some dwellings in the area were built as cottages – and Bruce may have put in the plaster walls.
Following the Northampton Museum’s recommendation, we will likely return the shoe to the walls, not out of superstition, but in the spirit of continuity. And we will adopt a new perspective on the shoe as suggested by Elizabeth Semmelhack, who says, “Think of it as a symbol of a new beginning for those people. They have a child and want to keep bad luck at bay.
“The shoe is devoted to hope in the future.”
Friday The 13th, My Survival Story!
This past Friday I experienced quite the series of unusual events. I am not a very superstitious person and I personally look forward to those special Fridays. I always enjoy a good scary movies or to delve further into the paranormal… I really appreciate the supernatural on those days. Well, I usually do all of those things anyways, but even more so on the 13th. On this particular Friday the 13th my husband and I were driving west on the 401 when it really started to rain, monsoon like, and my husband mentioned what day it was. As soon as he did an 18 wheeler nearly side swiped us. If he didn’t slam on the breaks we would have been toast. I do admit I screamed like a little girl! My heart nearly jumped out of my throat. First the crazy rainstorm and then the near death experience. OMG what was going to happen next!!!??? Well then we had to stop for gas so when hubby was pumping the octain our car started to roll. I was a bit shaky from the prior incident that I was a bit delayed in popping the emergency break on. My husband said I wanted to watch a horror movie, however, I did not want it in 4D lol! I wonder if people who believe that Friday the 13th is negative actually amplify it’s detrimental effects. It’s as though my husband was tuning in the bad vibes to actually cause almost harmful things to occur. Thank the Lord I was there to cancel the negative energy! We were very lucky to walk away without a scratch.
This past Friday I experienced quite the series of unusual events. I am not a very superstitious person and I personally look forward to those special Fridays. I always enjoy a good scary movies or to delve further into the paranormal… I really appreciate the supernatural on those days. Well, I usually do all of those things anyways, but even more so on the 13th. On this particular Friday the 13th my husband and I were driving west on the 401 when it really started to rain, monsoon like, and my husband mentioned what day it was. As soon as he did an 18 wheeler nearly side swiped us. If he didn’t slam on the breaks we would have been toast. I do admit I screamed like a little girl! My heart nearly jumped out of my throat. First the crazy rainstorm and then the near death experience. OMG what was going to happen next!!!??? Well then we had to stop for gas so when hubby was pumping the octain our car started to roll. I was a bit shaky from the prior incident that I was a bit delayed in popping the emergency break on. My husband said I wanted to watch a horror movie, however, I did not want it in 4D lol! I wonder if people who believe that Friday the 13th is negative actually amplify it’s detrimental effects. It’s as though my husband was tuning in the bad vibes to actually cause almost harmful things to occur. Thank the Lord I was there to cancel the negative energy! We were very lucky to walk away without a scratch.
Canada Malting Co. Penetrated On June 8th 2008
Canada Malting Silos located in the Toronto Harbourfront on the foot of Bathurst Street. Only one of two silos remain today. The silos were built in 1928 to store malt hops for the Canada Malting Company. Deemed an important work of industrial architecture, the concrete malting towers were a new innovation, they would prevent fire because grain elevators had been previously built out of wood. In 1944 a round office was added to original construction. Abandoned in the 1980s and set for demolition, the Canada Malting Silos were deemed a heritage site by the City of Toronto. They were to be converted into a music museum or theme park. Instead it just sits there inviting the curious into it’s very dangerous midst. Speaking of which… last night at approximately 1:00 a.m., we were enjoying the view of the city, and noticed a shining flashlight piercing the ebony sky from the highest point of the eerie malting plant. We scrambled to find a flashlight and when we did start shining it towards them they responded with more light, along with a beam of red… I assumed it was from a video camera I wonder what they found? Flashes also lit up spots of the plant from many different cameras on various floors. I wonder if the culprits are going to post it all online? I have only walked around it’s outskirts and never ventured to enter because I have read up on it and have come to find that it’s dangerous so I keep away. I also feel a substantial amount of negative energy and you know me and negative energy… I just can’t stand it.
Canada Malting Silos located in the Toronto Harbourfront on the foot of Bathurst Street. Only one of two silos remain today. The silos were built in 1928 to store malt hops for the Canada Malting Company. Deemed an important work of industrial architecture, the concrete malting towers were a new innovation, they would prevent fire because grain elevators had been previously built out of wood. In 1944 a round office was added to original construction. Abandoned in the 1980s and set for demolition, the Canada Malting Silos were deemed a heritage site by the City of Toronto. They were to be converted into a music museum or theme park. Instead it just sits there inviting the curious into it’s very dangerous midst. Speaking of which… last night at approximately 1:00 a.m., we were enjoying the view of the city, and noticed a shining flashlight piercing the ebony sky from the highest point of the eerie malting plant. We scrambled to find a flashlight and when we did start shining it towards them they responded with more light, along with a beam of red… I assumed it was from a video camera I wonder what they found? Flashes also lit up spots of the plant from many different cameras on various floors. I wonder if the culprits are going to post it all online? I have only walked around it’s outskirts and never ventured to enter because I have read up on it and have come to find that it’s dangerous so I keep away. I also feel a substantial amount of negative energy and you know me and negative energy… I just can’t stand it.
The Toronto Sun For Sale… Ghosts & All!
It’s for sale: Haunted, boxy, loads of gaudy murals (and morals) steps from the TTC, and full of spirits. Both kinds
By MIKE STROBELÂ
The Toronto Sun Website
(Newsflash: The Sun building will be listed for sale, publisher Kin-Man Lee tells staff. It’s too big and he doesn’t want to be a landlord. So … )
Hurry!!! Primo!!!! Won’t last!!!!
KING STREET CUTIE!!!!!
Sidesplit, 300,000 square-foot red-brick jewel in the heart of red-hot Olde York.
Historic, original 1970s Box of Brick style, with STUNNING addition and makeover in Late 20th-Century Revival.
Steps to TTC. In fact, be careful or be schmucked by a streetcar. Perfect location for flipping bird at drivers during sudden transit strikes.
Parking for 190, plus 351/2 baths, including toilets for 94, urinals for 21, and showers for 15 very, very close friends.
Let’s party!!! Spacious living-dining. Finished basement. Three full kitchens. Water coolers, which have heard some amazing tales.
No bedrooms as such, but comfy couches galore and countless stairwells to curl up in.
Comfort Room, to entertain a special someone or unwind after cleaning 351/2 washrooms.
Let the sun shine in!! Or gawk at the stars, and I don’t just mean Liz Braun. Skylights soar above Gone With The Wind central staircase.
SWEEPING VIEWS
Stock up on Windex. 232 windows in assorted shapes and sizes, and you keep the vertical blinds.
Light fixtures stay, including some wires we’re not sure what the hell they are.
Picturesque 3.92 acres, with sweeping views of the lake, CN Tower, financial district, Betty’s bar, Zoulpy’s deli and Fire Station 333.
Newer roof.
Security PLUS! Sixteen cameras. WHAT!!!?? (Not in the comfort room, Mikey.) Steely men in uniforms also available.
Zoned commercial, but we can fix that. Mayor Miller luvs us.
PLUS!!! a ton of other bonuses!!!!
Wall-to-wall carpet, potted plants, pot-lights, any pot left in the entertainment department, and 50 tons of Goss presses, for that busy modern family with heavy printing needs.
One of a kind haunted room!!!!
Everyone who has ever occupied a certain second-floor office has been fired. Rare opportunity for business owner with problem employee. Or family with problem child.
Other spirits abound, with names like Rimmer, Big Red, Shaky, Mac, Moneypenny, the Moaner, the Baron.
Did we mention the murals?!!
Kick back with a brew and feast your eyes on the history of Toronto parading across your very own Front St. wall.
Or the Donato masterpiece in the breakfast nook, lampooning many celebs.
Andy says it’s worth $4.5 million in today’s market.
But, for you, FREE!!!! If you buy this property before Canada Day.
Shows like a model!!!! Fully equipped photo studio. SUNshine Girls not included.
DEDICATED HORDE
A dedicated horde of parking officers on King St. You can bloody well have ’em for all we care.
Also: An oasis in the city!!! A jungle of ferns and small trees, some real, some suspiciously shiny.
Umpteen framed photos of Joe Carter celebrating his 1993 World Series-winning homer.
Stacks of old newspapers and any journos found slumbering therein.
Several dust-coated but collectible IBM typewriters. Museum quality.
I think I recognize John Downing’s pawprint on one of them.
Income potential!!!! You could house Kitchener in the basement.
Sorry, not included: Incidental bald columnists.
Or the Headless Argo photo. Already gave that away to a friend of the Headless Argo.
Or the fish tank in Paul Godfrey’s old office. It’s gone. Sprang a leak, a day before the kitchen served Seafood Chowder Surprise.
Or the best damn newspaper staff in the country.
This whole deal will take months, maybe years. Terms negotiable. We’ll rent back, or we’ll move out.
I wonder if the Eclipse Building is available.
Rare find!!!!
Stop looking!!! You’re home!!!! Move in!!!
It’s for sale: Haunted, boxy, loads of gaudy murals (and morals) steps from the TTC, and full of spirits. Both kinds
By MIKE STROBELÂ
The Toronto Sun Website
(Newsflash: The Sun building will be listed for sale, publisher Kin-Man Lee tells staff. It’s too big and he doesn’t want to be a landlord. So … )
Hurry!!! Primo!!!! Won’t last!!!!
KING STREET CUTIE!!!!!
Sidesplit, 300,000 square-foot red-brick jewel in the heart of red-hot Olde York.
Historic, original 1970s Box of Brick style, with STUNNING addition and makeover in Late 20th-Century Revival.
Steps to TTC. In fact, be careful or be schmucked by a streetcar. Perfect location for flipping bird at drivers during sudden transit strikes.
Parking for 190, plus 351/2 baths, including toilets for 94, urinals for 21, and showers for 15 very, very close friends.
Let’s party!!! Spacious living-dining. Finished basement. Three full kitchens. Water coolers, which have heard some amazing tales.
No bedrooms as such, but comfy couches galore and countless stairwells to curl up in.
Comfort Room, to entertain a special someone or unwind after cleaning 351/2 washrooms.
Let the sun shine in!! Or gawk at the stars, and I don’t just mean Liz Braun. Skylights soar above Gone With The Wind central staircase.
SWEEPING VIEWS
Stock up on Windex. 232 windows in assorted shapes and sizes, and you keep the vertical blinds.
Light fixtures stay, including some wires we’re not sure what the hell they are.
Picturesque 3.92 acres, with sweeping views of the lake, CN Tower, financial district, Betty’s bar, Zoulpy’s deli and Fire Station 333.
Newer roof.
Security PLUS! Sixteen cameras. WHAT!!!?? (Not in the comfort room, Mikey.) Steely men in uniforms also available.
Zoned commercial, but we can fix that. Mayor Miller luvs us.
PLUS!!! a ton of other bonuses!!!!
Wall-to-wall carpet, potted plants, pot-lights, any pot left in the entertainment department, and 50 tons of Goss presses, for that busy modern family with heavy printing needs.
One of a kind haunted room!!!!
Everyone who has ever occupied a certain second-floor office has been fired. Rare opportunity for business owner with problem employee. Or family with problem child.
Other spirits abound, with names like Rimmer, Big Red, Shaky, Mac, Moneypenny, the Moaner, the Baron.
Did we mention the murals?!!
Kick back with a brew and feast your eyes on the history of Toronto parading across your very own Front St. wall.
Or the Donato masterpiece in the breakfast nook, lampooning many celebs.
Andy says it’s worth $4.5 million in today’s market.
But, for you, FREE!!!! If you buy this property before Canada Day.
Shows like a model!!!! Fully equipped photo studio. SUNshine Girls not included.
DEDICATED HORDE
A dedicated horde of parking officers on King St. You can bloody well have ’em for all we care.
Also: An oasis in the city!!! A jungle of ferns and small trees, some real, some suspiciously shiny.
Umpteen framed photos of Joe Carter celebrating his 1993 World Series-winning homer.
Stacks of old newspapers and any journos found slumbering therein.
Several dust-coated but collectible IBM typewriters. Museum quality.
I think I recognize John Downing’s pawprint on one of them.
Income potential!!!! You could house Kitchener in the basement.
Sorry, not included: Incidental bald columnists.
Or the Headless Argo photo. Already gave that away to a friend of the Headless Argo.
Or the fish tank in Paul Godfrey’s old office. It’s gone. Sprang a leak, a day before the kitchen served Seafood Chowder Surprise.
Or the best damn newspaper staff in the country.
This whole deal will take months, maybe years. Terms negotiable. We’ll rent back, or we’ll move out.
I wonder if the Eclipse Building is available.
Rare find!!!!
Stop looking!!! You’re home!!!! Move in!!!
By MIKE STROBELÂ
The Toronto Sun Website
(Newsflash: The Sun building will be listed for sale, publisher Kin-Man Lee tells staff. It’s too big and he doesn’t want to be a landlord. So … )
Hurry!!! Primo!!!! Won’t last!!!!
KING STREET CUTIE!!!!!
Sidesplit, 300,000 square-foot red-brick jewel in the heart of red-hot Olde York.
Historic, original 1970s Box of Brick style, with STUNNING addition and makeover in Late 20th-Century Revival.
Steps to TTC. In fact, be careful or be schmucked by a streetcar. Perfect location for flipping bird at drivers during sudden transit strikes.
Parking for 190, plus 351/2 baths, including toilets for 94, urinals for 21, and showers for 15 very, very close friends.
Let’s party!!! Spacious living-dining. Finished basement. Three full kitchens. Water coolers, which have heard some amazing tales.
No bedrooms as such, but comfy couches galore and countless stairwells to curl up in.
Comfort Room, to entertain a special someone or unwind after cleaning 351/2 washrooms.
Let the sun shine in!! Or gawk at the stars, and I don’t just mean Liz Braun. Skylights soar above Gone With The Wind central staircase.
SWEEPING VIEWS
Stock up on Windex. 232 windows in assorted shapes and sizes, and you keep the vertical blinds.
Light fixtures stay, including some wires we’re not sure what the hell they are.
Picturesque 3.92 acres, with sweeping views of the lake, CN Tower, financial district, Betty’s bar, Zoulpy’s deli and Fire Station 333.
Newer roof.
Security PLUS! Sixteen cameras. WHAT!!!?? (Not in the comfort room, Mikey.) Steely men in uniforms also available.
Zoned commercial, but we can fix that. Mayor Miller luvs us.
PLUS!!! a ton of other bonuses!!!!
Wall-to-wall carpet, potted plants, pot-lights, any pot left in the entertainment department, and 50 tons of Goss presses, for that busy modern family with heavy printing needs.
One of a kind haunted room!!!!
Everyone who has ever occupied a certain second-floor office has been fired. Rare opportunity for business owner with problem employee. Or family with problem child.
Other spirits abound, with names like Rimmer, Big Red, Shaky, Mac, Moneypenny, the Moaner, the Baron.
Did we mention the murals?!!
Kick back with a brew and feast your eyes on the history of Toronto parading across your very own Front St. wall.
Or the Donato masterpiece in the breakfast nook, lampooning many celebs.
Andy says it’s worth $4.5 million in today’s market.
But, for you, FREE!!!! If you buy this property before Canada Day.
Shows like a model!!!! Fully equipped photo studio. SUNshine Girls not included.
DEDICATED HORDE
A dedicated horde of parking officers on King St. You can bloody well have ’em for all we care.
Also: An oasis in the city!!! A jungle of ferns and small trees, some real, some suspiciously shiny.
Umpteen framed photos of Joe Carter celebrating his 1993 World Series-winning homer.
Stacks of old newspapers and any journos found slumbering therein.
Several dust-coated but collectible IBM typewriters. Museum quality.
I think I recognize John Downing’s pawprint on one of them.
Income potential!!!! You could house Kitchener in the basement.
Sorry, not included: Incidental bald columnists.
Or the Headless Argo photo. Already gave that away to a friend of the Headless Argo.
Or the fish tank in Paul Godfrey’s old office. It’s gone. Sprang a leak, a day before the kitchen served Seafood Chowder Surprise.
Or the best damn newspaper staff in the country.
This whole deal will take months, maybe years. Terms negotiable. We’ll rent back, or we’ll move out.
I wonder if the Eclipse Building is available.
Rare find!!!!
Stop looking!!! You’re home!!!! Move in!!!
Mysterion
Mysterion (
Expect the unexpected from this mad doctor—demonstrations of the paranormal, such as telepathy with spectators, ESP tests, mind reading, and telekinesis to nerve wracking feats of mind over matter. Even the most skeptical are drawn into participating in a mind-blowing psychic experience.Â
Harbourfront Centre 235 Queens Quay west
(Google map)
Â
Mysterion (
Expect the unexpected from this mad doctor—demonstrations of the paranormal, such as telepathy with spectators, ESP tests, mind reading, and telekinesis to nerve wracking feats of mind over matter. Even the most skeptical are drawn into participating in a mind-blowing psychic experience.Â
Harbourfront Centre 235 Queens Quay west
(Google map)
Â
Expect the unexpected from this mad doctor—demonstrations of the paranormal, such as telepathy with spectators, ESP tests, mind reading, and telekinesis to nerve wracking feats of mind over matter. Even the most skeptical are drawn into participating in a mind-blowing psychic experience.Â
Harbourfront Centre 235 Queens Quay west
(Google map)
Â
ESP Psychic Expo
TORONTO, March 7 /CNW/ – ESP PSYCHIC EXPO returns to the International
Centre in Mississauga, March 7-9. This ‘Exposition of the Paranormal’ features
demonstrations and lectures on psychic powers, ESP, clairvoyance, astrology,
palmistry, and auras. Live psychic readings and astrology charts are also
offered.   Mentalism Show – Saturday 7pm
   Complimentary sample psychic reading offered with admission   ESP PSYCHIC EXPO
   INTERNATIONAL CENTRE, 6900 AIRPORT RD. MISSISSAUGA
   March 7, 8, 9
   Friday 4pm-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-7pm
For further information: or interviews – (Media contact) Valentine
Safranko, (416) 425-4827
TORONTO, March 7 /CNW/ – ESP PSYCHIC EXPO returns to the International
Centre in Mississauga, March 7-9. This ‘Exposition of the Paranormal’ features
demonstrations and lectures on psychic powers, ESP, clairvoyance, astrology,
palmistry, and auras. Live psychic readings and astrology charts are also
offered.   Mentalism Show – Saturday 7pm
   Complimentary sample psychic reading offered with admission   ESP PSYCHIC EXPO
   INTERNATIONAL CENTRE, 6900 AIRPORT RD. MISSISSAUGA
   March 7, 8, 9
   Friday 4pm-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-7pm
For further information: or interviews – (Media contact) Valentine
Safranko, (416) 425-4827
Centre in Mississauga, March 7-9. This ‘Exposition of the Paranormal’ features
demonstrations and lectures on psychic powers, ESP, clairvoyance, astrology,
palmistry, and auras. Live psychic readings and astrology charts are also
offered.   Mentalism Show – Saturday 7pm
   Complimentary sample psychic reading offered with admission   ESP PSYCHIC EXPO
   INTERNATIONAL CENTRE, 6900 AIRPORT RD. MISSISSAUGA
   March 7, 8, 9
   Friday 4pm-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 11am-7pm
For further information: or interviews – (Media contact) Valentine
Safranko, (416) 425-4827
Ghost Of Dead-Toronto Photographer That Is Haunting a TO Flickr Group
I read an article that featured a dead, yes dead, Toronto photographer that is an active member of the Blog TO Flickr Pool. Photos are being uploaded to this day, even though he’s been dead since the 80s?! I for one believe that energy never dies, so did our ghostly friend find a wormhole that enabled him to travel and communicate, with the living, on the internet??? For further details please see the link below…
 http://blogto.com/arts/2008/02/ghost_of_dead_photographer_haunts_flickr/
I read an article that featured a dead, yes dead, Toronto photographer that is an active member of the Blog TO Flickr Pool. Photos are being uploaded to this day, even though he’s been dead since the 80s?! I for one believe that energy never dies, so did our ghostly friend find a wormhole that enabled him to travel and communicate, with the living, on the internet??? For further details please see the link below…
 http://blogto.com/arts/2008/02/ghost_of_dead_photographer_haunts_flickr/
 http://blogto.com/arts/2008/02/ghost_of_dead_photographer_haunts_flickr/
Parkdale, Toronto’s Oldest & Most Haunted Area! Video Enclosed.
I was doing one of my usual searches and happened upon some Halloween footage that featured Parkdale. A rather interesting fellow guided us on a tour of some of the haunted locations there. Please see it below…
I was doing one of my usual searches and happened upon some Halloween footage that featured Parkdale. A rather interesting fellow guided us on a tour of some of the haunted locations there. Please see it below…
Meetup.com For Local Paranormal Meets!
I have been speaking with some rather interesting people. One suggested that I join the Barrie group on meetup.com… apparently they hold investigations and meets. I do think it would be a great way to learn more about the metaphysical and about others with the same interests and/or experiences. Please see the links below for more information.
Barrie : http://ghosts.meetup.com/628/
Toronto P.I.S.T.: http://ghosts.meetup.com/547/
Others : http://www.meetup.com/search/?keywords=toronto+paranormal&jsCountry=us
I have been speaking with some rather interesting people. One suggested that I join the Barrie group on meetup.com… apparently they hold investigations and meets. I do think it would be a great way to learn more about the metaphysical and about others with the same interests and/or experiences. Please see the links below for more information.
Barrie : http://ghosts.meetup.com/628/
Toronto P.I.S.T.: http://ghosts.meetup.com/547/
Others : http://www.meetup.com/search/?keywords=toronto+paranormal&jsCountry=us
Barrie : http://ghosts.meetup.com/628/
Toronto P.I.S.T.: http://ghosts.meetup.com/547/
Others : http://www.meetup.com/search/?keywords=toronto+paranormal&jsCountry=us
Inquires Regarding Psychics & Investigations In Toronto
I have received some emails and messages on the T.O.P.S. facebook account concerning psychics and investigations in Toronto. Questions like… if I knew of any psychics that are good, if I knew of people that can sense ghosts, if I go on or hold investigations, etc. I really wish I did, but unfortunately I do not. Regarding the psychics, I am wanting to see one myself actually and would appreciate it if anyone could post information on one that has the true ability. I am not talking about people that are in it for entertainment purposes only… I consider them to be a waste of time! If you are a psychic and have good references, then please feel free to post. As for the investigations… I am a “Legend Tripper”, meaning, I go to haunted places unofficially and casually look around. I always go with at least one other person just in case and don’t recommend that anyone ever go alone! I am thinking about going to an actual investigation soon, but I am still a bit nervous because of what I might encounter and what I might bring home with me. I am very sensitive so things have made themselves known to me. I have even had a violent paranormal physical encounter, so you can see why I am very cautious. I guess I feel that knowledge is the key to assisting me on my path to the metaphysical. Only time will tell!
I have received some emails and messages on the T.O.P.S. facebook account concerning psychics and investigations in Toronto. Questions like… if I knew of any psychics that are good, if I knew of people that can sense ghosts, if I go on or hold investigations, etc. I really wish I did, but unfortunately I do not. Regarding the psychics, I am wanting to see one myself actually and would appreciate it if anyone could post information on one that has the true ability. I am not talking about people that are in it for entertainment purposes only… I consider them to be a waste of time! If you are a psychic and have good references, then please feel free to post. As for the investigations… I am a “Legend Tripper”, meaning, I go to haunted places unofficially and casually look around. I always go with at least one other person just in case and don’t recommend that anyone ever go alone! I am thinking about going to an actual investigation soon, but I am still a bit nervous because of what I might encounter and what I might bring home with me. I am very sensitive so things have made themselves known to me. I have even had a violent paranormal physical encounter, so you can see why I am very cautious. I guess I feel that knowledge is the key to assisting me on my path to the metaphysical. Only time will tell!
Haunted Toronto Book Available Online At Amazon.ca
I realized that I posted product widgets of the US version of Amazon. My bad, sorry! I am going to update them all shortly. I am going to start with the prize first. I believe that this book is a definite must for any Toronto paranormal fan. It looks to be priced the best too!
I realized that I posted product widgets of the US version of Amazon. My bad, sorry! I am going to update them all shortly. I am going to start with the prize first. I believe that this book is a definite must for any Toronto paranormal fan. It looks to be priced the best too!
Public Housing Entity Agrees To Pay For Psychic To Exorcise Ghost
Wednesday February 13, 2008
CityNews.ca Staff
There have been all kinds of complaints filed over the years with Metro Housing in Toronto, but even they never had to deal with anything like this. A British low rent housing entity was forced to lay out $117 in taxpayer funds to resolve an ongoing dispute with a tenant. Who got the money and why? It went to help pay a psychic who performed a ghost exorcism in one of the units. The occupants of the home reported hearing banging noises and seeing objects flying across the room by themselves, and told officials on Easington Council in Durham County England they believed their apartment was haunted. And they wanted to know what, if anything, officials planned to do to help them. Police were called and found nothing. But when the tenants insisted they would rather be homeless that stay there with what they believed was a poltergeist inside, the Council reluctantly agreed to pay for half the cost of bringing in a psychic to detect the unrestful spirit and get her to move out. Spiritualist Suzanne Hadwin contends a woman was murdered in the home several years ago and that her essence has never been able to leave. She charges $235 for her services and the government agreed to dole out half of it, with the frightened family picking up the rest. Why? They did the math and discovered it would be cheaper to pay the woman than put the reluctant tenants in emergency housing. “This is the first time we have had to take such a measure,” a council spokeswoman explains dryly. “However, the tenants were extremely distressed at the time and we therefore believed it was the most appropriate course of action.” The family now says they feel safe in their home and don’t want to leave. Would anyone else be able to get this service performed with public money? It might depend on the circumstances, but most believe there isn’t a ghost of a chance.
Wednesday February 13, 2008
CityNews.ca Staff
There have been all kinds of complaints filed over the years with Metro Housing in Toronto, but even they never had to deal with anything like this. A British low rent housing entity was forced to lay out $117 in taxpayer funds to resolve an ongoing dispute with a tenant. Who got the money and why? It went to help pay a psychic who performed a ghost exorcism in one of the units. The occupants of the home reported hearing banging noises and seeing objects flying across the room by themselves, and told officials on Easington Council in Durham County England they believed their apartment was haunted. And they wanted to know what, if anything, officials planned to do to help them. Police were called and found nothing. But when the tenants insisted they would rather be homeless that stay there with what they believed was a poltergeist inside, the Council reluctantly agreed to pay for half the cost of bringing in a psychic to detect the unrestful spirit and get her to move out. Spiritualist Suzanne Hadwin contends a woman was murdered in the home several years ago and that her essence has never been able to leave. She charges $235 for her services and the government agreed to dole out half of it, with the frightened family picking up the rest. Why? They did the math and discovered it would be cheaper to pay the woman than put the reluctant tenants in emergency housing. “This is the first time we have had to take such a measure,” a council spokeswoman explains dryly. “However, the tenants were extremely distressed at the time and we therefore believed it was the most appropriate course of action.” The family now says they feel safe in their home and don’t want to leave. Would anyone else be able to get this service performed with public money? It might depend on the circumstances, but most believe there isn’t a ghost of a chance.
CityNews.ca Staff
There have been all kinds of complaints filed over the years with Metro Housing in Toronto, but even they never had to deal with anything like this. A British low rent housing entity was forced to lay out $117 in taxpayer funds to resolve an ongoing dispute with a tenant. Who got the money and why? It went to help pay a psychic who performed a ghost exorcism in one of the units. The occupants of the home reported hearing banging noises and seeing objects flying across the room by themselves, and told officials on Easington Council in Durham County England they believed their apartment was haunted. And they wanted to know what, if anything, officials planned to do to help them. Police were called and found nothing. But when the tenants insisted they would rather be homeless that stay there with what they believed was a poltergeist inside, the Council reluctantly agreed to pay for half the cost of bringing in a psychic to detect the unrestful spirit and get her to move out. Spiritualist Suzanne Hadwin contends a woman was murdered in the home several years ago and that her essence has never been able to leave. She charges $235 for her services and the government agreed to dole out half of it, with the frightened family picking up the rest. Why? They did the math and discovered it would be cheaper to pay the woman than put the reluctant tenants in emergency housing. “This is the first time we have had to take such a measure,” a council spokeswoman explains dryly. “However, the tenants were extremely distressed at the time and we therefore believed it was the most appropriate course of action.” The family now says they feel safe in their home and don’t want to leave. Would anyone else be able to get this service performed with public money? It might depend on the circumstances, but most believe there isn’t a ghost of a chance.
Pyschic Brunch Where You Can Meet Torontos “Best” Psychics
Last week I was driving on the Danforth and I noticed a cool looking pub with a sign that stated they they hold a psychic fair every 2nd Sunday of the month.  I googled them and was happy to find out more details… it’s held twice a month at 2 Toronto Locations by some “best” (self proclaimed?) psychics. Their site states that they have a high accuracy rate and 97% of their clients were satisfied.  The first location is at The Old Nick at 123 Danforth Avenue, at Broadview, 2nd Sunday of each month, from 1pm to 5pm. The second location is at 554 Parliament Street at Wellesely, last Sunday of each month, from 11apm to 3pm. I think I’m going to check it out. I have had a strong feeling that it’s time I went to see a psychic. Maybe they can guide me to help me understand more about these unexplained experiences that I have had. For more information please see their site:http://www.psychicbrunch.ca/
Last week I was driving on the Danforth and I noticed a cool looking pub with a sign that stated they they hold a psychic fair every 2nd Sunday of the month.  I googled them and was happy to find out more details… it’s held twice a month at 2 Toronto Locations by some “best” (self proclaimed?) psychics. Their site states that they have a high accuracy rate and 97% of their clients were satisfied.  The first location is at The Old Nick at 123 Danforth Avenue, at Broadview, 2nd Sunday of each month, from 1pm to 5pm. The second location is at 554 Parliament Street at Wellesely, last Sunday of each month, from 11apm to 3pm. I think I’m going to check it out. I have had a strong feeling that it’s time I went to see a psychic. Maybe they can guide me to help me understand more about these unexplained experiences that I have had. For more information please see their site:http://www.psychicbrunch.ca/
Thundering Blue Cracking Clusters
This past Wednesday Toronto had a record snow fall, but some pretty unusual thunder and lightening occurred that night as well. It wasn’t your average storm either… the noise was so intense, it sounded like a truck fell off the Gardiner. Then there was such a fierce blue light the sky seemed to explode and spark up the night in what only seemed like a split second. I ran to my balcony to try to see what happened and I noticed that a lot of others were on their balconies trying to figure out what was going on too. We couldn’t see much and then I figured out that it must have been the elements. Then last night I experienced such a vivid dream that was related to that odd weather and the Cloverfield movie. I can’t help but feel that what transpired in Toronto on Wednesday evening was something extraterrestrial. In my dream a huge orange-yellow spear seemed to engulf the surrounding downtown Toronto core. Then the force of the blast pushed out so much debris, it drowned all that was in it’s midst. I ran inside a nearby PATH where these hovering aliens, wearing black trench coats, were inserting custom clusters to its designated human counterparts. The packets were the most vibrant fishes, like in Chinese paintings. These modifications were specially designed to enhance us, but I woke up before I could learn for what? My dream was so vivid, I could even see colors. I have been experiencing such an unsettling feeling lately and I have been rather fascinated with apocalyptic stories as well. Some say it’s going to happen and as soon as 2012. I don’t feel that it will, but I do have a feeling that 2013 may not be a good year. I hope I’m wrong.
This past Wednesday Toronto had a record snow fall, but some pretty unusual thunder and lightening occurred that night as well. It wasn’t your average storm either… the noise was so intense, it sounded like a truck fell off the Gardiner. Then there was such a fierce blue light the sky seemed to explode and spark up the night in what only seemed like a split second. I ran to my balcony to try to see what happened and I noticed that a lot of others were on their balconies trying to figure out what was going on too. We couldn’t see much and then I figured out that it must have been the elements. Then last night I experienced such a vivid dream that was related to that odd weather and the Cloverfield movie. I can’t help but feel that what transpired in Toronto on Wednesday evening was something extraterrestrial. In my dream a huge orange-yellow spear seemed to engulf the surrounding downtown Toronto core. Then the force of the blast pushed out so much debris, it drowned all that was in it’s midst. I ran inside a nearby PATH where these hovering aliens, wearing black trench coats, were inserting custom clusters to its designated human counterparts. The packets were the most vibrant fishes, like in Chinese paintings. These modifications were specially designed to enhance us, but I woke up before I could learn for what? My dream was so vivid, I could even see colors. I have been experiencing such an unsettling feeling lately and I have been rather fascinated with apocalyptic stories as well. Some say it’s going to happen and as soon as 2012. I don’t feel that it will, but I do have a feeling that 2013 may not be a good year. I hope I’m wrong.
Haunted House Shopping In Toronto
In the next few months I am hoping to acquire a house and I am also hoping that maybe, just maybe, it will have something extra, other than the usual amenities. Am I crazy for wanting to experience more supernatural energy? I’m so drawn to it.. I can’t even begin to explain. I imagine it’s like people who jump out of a plane. That high they must experience is too euphoric to resist. Speaking of buying a haunted house, I was searching the City TV archives and stumbled upon the following article. Hit the link below to access the video footage…
Would-Be Homeowners Balk At Buying A “Haunted House”
Thursday August 31, 2006
The housing market in the G.T.A. continues to churn out record numbers, with more and more homes and condos getting record prices. The Danforth has always been a coveted area, but there’s one home in the neighbourhood that may end up literally spooking away prospective buyers.
The Victorian mansion is rumoured to be haunted, and Christian Cedieux, a crime and trauma scene cleaner, has spent enough time inside to determine for himself whether a ghoulish presence exists. He’s been working at the house ever since the elderly owner was found dead inside.
She died of natural causes, but Cedieux now considers himself a believer in the supernatural.
“I refuse to allow any of my employees to work by themselves,” he admits with a straight face.
“Everyone had to work in teams of two. From equipment turning off and on, to gloves levitating. I had a grown man 35 years of age who ran out of one particular room screaming and crying. He couldn’t take it.”
“There are things that cannot be explained, and I’ve seen it; my staff has seen it; we’ve experienced it; we’ve felt it; we’ve smelt it.”
“One of my employees was pushed by an invisible assailant. He ran down screaming and crying and was really spooked out.”
Four workers left and never came back.
The house is now clean and ready for sale, although Christian admits he wouldn’t spend a night there for $1,000.
“There are things that cannot be explained, and I’m here to tell you that they’re very for real.”
In the next few months I am hoping to acquire a house and I am also hoping that maybe, just maybe, it will have something extra, other than the usual amenities. Am I crazy for wanting to experience more supernatural energy? I’m so drawn to it.. I can’t even begin to explain. I imagine it’s like people who jump out of a plane. That high they must experience is too euphoric to resist. Speaking of buying a haunted house, I was searching the City TV archives and stumbled upon the following article. Hit the link below to access the video footage…
Would-Be Homeowners Balk At Buying A “Haunted House”
She died of natural causes, but Cedieux now considers himself a believer in the supernatural.
“I refuse to allow any of my employees to work by themselves,” he admits with a straight face.
“Everyone had to work in teams of two. From equipment turning off and on, to gloves levitating. I had a grown man 35 years of age who ran out of one particular room screaming and crying. He couldn’t take it.”
“There are things that cannot be explained, and I’ve seen it; my staff has seen it; we’ve experienced it; we’ve felt it; we’ve smelt it.”
“One of my employees was pushed by an invisible assailant. He ran down screaming and crying and was really spooked out.”
Four workers left and never came back.
The house is now clean and ready for sale, although Christian admits he wouldn’t spend a night there for $1,000.
“There are things that cannot be explained, and I’m here to tell you that they’re very for real.”
Would-Be Homeowners Balk At Buying A “Haunted House”
Thursday August 31, 2006
The housing market in the G.T.A. continues to churn out record numbers, with more and more homes and condos getting record prices. The Danforth has always been a coveted area, but there’s one home in the neighbourhood that may end up literally spooking away prospective buyers.
The Victorian mansion is rumoured to be haunted, and Christian Cedieux, a crime and trauma scene cleaner, has spent enough time inside to determine for himself whether a ghoulish presence exists. He’s been working at the house ever since the elderly owner was found dead inside.She died of natural causes, but Cedieux now considers himself a believer in the supernatural.
“I refuse to allow any of my employees to work by themselves,” he admits with a straight face.
“Everyone had to work in teams of two. From equipment turning off and on, to gloves levitating. I had a grown man 35 years of age who ran out of one particular room screaming and crying. He couldn’t take it.”
“There are things that cannot be explained, and I’ve seen it; my staff has seen it; we’ve experienced it; we’ve felt it; we’ve smelt it.”
“One of my employees was pushed by an invisible assailant. He ran down screaming and crying and was really spooked out.”
Four workers left and never came back.
The house is now clean and ready for sale, although Christian admits he wouldn’t spend a night there for $1,000.
“There are things that cannot be explained, and I’m here to tell you that they’re very for real.”
Haunted Toronto Book Finally Appears On Ebay.ca
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New Sci-Fi Paranormal Show To Be Filmed In Toronto
Torv takes lead role in Abrams’ drama
Thursday, January 31 2008, 16:35 GMT (11:35 ET)
By Beth Hilton, Entertainment Reporter
Australian actress Anna Torv is to take the lead role in JJ Abrams’ new sci-fi drama Fringe.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Torv is the filmmaker’s latest female discovery, following in the footsteps of Keri Russell (Felicity), Jennifer Garner (Alias) and Evangeline Lilly (Lost).
The Fox show, written by Abrams, Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci, will also star Blair Brown and Jasika Nicole.
Torv will play Olivia Warren, a young FBI agent working with institutionalised scientist Dr. Walter Bishop (John Noble) to tackle paranormal phenomena.
Filming for the two-hour pilot will begin in Toronto next month. Fox has not yet announced when it will air.
Thursday, January 31 2008, 16:35 GMT (11:35 ET)
By Beth Hilton, Entertainment Reporter
Australian actress Anna Torv is to take the lead role in JJ Abrams’ new sci-fi drama Fringe.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Torv is the filmmaker’s latest female discovery, following in the footsteps of Keri Russell (Felicity), Jennifer Garner (Alias) and Evangeline Lilly (Lost).The Fox show, written by Abrams, Alex Kurtzman and Roberto Orci, will also star Blair Brown and Jasika Nicole.
Torv will play Olivia Warren, a young FBI agent working with institutionalised scientist Dr. Walter Bishop (John Noble) to tackle paranormal phenomena.
Filming for the two-hour pilot will begin in Toronto next month. Fox has not yet announced when it will air.
ParaWomenRadio On Blogtalkradio.com
True Toronto Ghost Stories Featured On About.com
I found a very interesting website that offers real life paranormal accounts. They can be found at About.com. I’m going to add it to the Link section on this site.
http://paranormal.about.com/
Some stories featured are from people and places that are right here in Toronto. I found a recent story and link that I posted below…
http://paranormal.about.com/library/blstory_january08_15.htm
Your True Tales January 2008
Little Ghost’s Footsteps
My experience took place at the end of October of 2007. I’ve always been a believer of ghosts and the paranormal, but had never experienced anything outright. But that changed one night this past October. I was house-sitting for my brother, his wife, and their two kids for one week in a suburb of Toronto. I believe it was the first, if not second night of my stay. It was around 1 a.m. and I was upstairs in bed reading when I suddenly heard someone walking around downstairs. I sat up in bed and listened, and it stopped. I brushed it off, thinking that the heat in the pipes was causing them to expand and contract, making weird noises. I went back to reading, and a few moments later I heard the footsteps again. At this point a few things went through my head: 1) My brother must have come home early (although they had just left for Europe a couple of days earlier); 2) It could be the neighbors next door (but soon realized that they live in a completely detached house, so they couldn’t have heard anyone through the walls); 3) How am I going to get out of here, since I’m on the second floor and there’s a burglar downstairs? I was totally and utterly convinced that there was someone walking around in their kitchen. It was kind of like a shuffling sound, as if the person was moving around the room — it wasn’t evenly paced like they were walking down a hallway. They also sounded quite heavy and sturdy, as if it were a male and not a female. I got out of bed and walked down the stairs to look over the banister into the kitchen, but it was pitch-black and I could see nothing. So I ran upstairs, put my head phones on, and went to sleep. I never heard the footsteps again. And truthfully I didn’t think much of it after that. Until my brother and his family came home…. On their way home from the airport, they stopped by my house where I live with my parents. I suddenly remembered what had happened and I said to my sister-in-law, “I thought I heard footsteps in your kitchen one night!” and laughed. She looked at me and said, “Oh, I see you’ve met our little ghost.” I couldn’t believe it. I asked her to explain. She said that about a year ago (soon after they moved in), she and my brother were sleeping in their room when suddenly my sister-in-law woke up when she heard someone walking in their room. She waited for what she thought was one of her children to jump into her bed. Nothing happened, so she asked my brother if one of the kids was in the room (she wears glasses and can’t see well without them, especially since it was dark). He said no, but that he too had heard someone come into the room. They both sat up in bed and listened, and sure enough they heard footsteps start on one side of the room, and walk all the way around the bed to the other side. She has told me also that her children (who share a room) have woken up a couple of times in the middle of the night to see two glowing red eyes in their room, but that since my brother has started renovating, the sightings have stopped. I’m never house-sitting for them again.
I found a very interesting website that offers real life paranormal accounts. They can be found at About.com. I’m going to add it to the Link section on this site.
http://paranormal.about.com/
Some stories featured are from people and places that are right here in Toronto. I found a recent story and link that I posted below…
http://paranormal.about.com/library/blstory_january08_15.htm
Your True Tales January 2008
Little Ghost’s Footsteps
My experience took place at the end of October of 2007. I’ve always been a believer of ghosts and the paranormal, but had never experienced anything outright. But that changed one night this past October. I was house-sitting for my brother, his wife, and their two kids for one week in a suburb of Toronto. I believe it was the first, if not second night of my stay. It was around 1 a.m. and I was upstairs in bed reading when I suddenly heard someone walking around downstairs. I sat up in bed and listened, and it stopped. I brushed it off, thinking that the heat in the pipes was causing them to expand and contract, making weird noises. I went back to reading, and a few moments later I heard the footsteps again. At this point a few things went through my head: 1) My brother must have come home early (although they had just left for Europe a couple of days earlier); 2) It could be the neighbors next door (but soon realized that they live in a completely detached house, so they couldn’t have heard anyone through the walls); 3) How am I going to get out of here, since I’m on the second floor and there’s a burglar downstairs? I was totally and utterly convinced that there was someone walking around in their kitchen. It was kind of like a shuffling sound, as if the person was moving around the room — it wasn’t evenly paced like they were walking down a hallway. They also sounded quite heavy and sturdy, as if it were a male and not a female. I got out of bed and walked down the stairs to look over the banister into the kitchen, but it was pitch-black and I could see nothing. So I ran upstairs, put my head phones on, and went to sleep. I never heard the footsteps again. And truthfully I didn’t think much of it after that. Until my brother and his family came home…. On their way home from the airport, they stopped by my house where I live with my parents. I suddenly remembered what had happened and I said to my sister-in-law, “I thought I heard footsteps in your kitchen one night!” and laughed. She looked at me and said, “Oh, I see you’ve met our little ghost.” I couldn’t believe it. I asked her to explain. She said that about a year ago (soon after they moved in), she and my brother were sleeping in their room when suddenly my sister-in-law woke up when she heard someone walking in their room. She waited for what she thought was one of her children to jump into her bed. Nothing happened, so she asked my brother if one of the kids was in the room (she wears glasses and can’t see well without them, especially since it was dark). He said no, but that he too had heard someone come into the room. They both sat up in bed and listened, and sure enough they heard footsteps start on one side of the room, and walk all the way around the bed to the other side. She has told me also that her children (who share a room) have woken up a couple of times in the middle of the night to see two glowing red eyes in their room, but that since my brother has started renovating, the sightings have stopped. I’m never house-sitting for them again.
http://paranormal.about.com/
Some stories featured are from people and places that are right here in Toronto. I found a recent story and link that I posted below…
http://paranormal.about.com/library/blstory_january08_15.htm
Your True Tales January 2008
Little Ghost’s Footsteps
My experience took place at the end of October of 2007. I’ve always been a believer of ghosts and the paranormal, but had never experienced anything outright. But that changed one night this past October. I was house-sitting for my brother, his wife, and their two kids for one week in a suburb of Toronto. I believe it was the first, if not second night of my stay. It was around 1 a.m. and I was upstairs in bed reading when I suddenly heard someone walking around downstairs. I sat up in bed and listened, and it stopped. I brushed it off, thinking that the heat in the pipes was causing them to expand and contract, making weird noises. I went back to reading, and a few moments later I heard the footsteps again. At this point a few things went through my head: 1) My brother must have come home early (although they had just left for Europe a couple of days earlier); 2) It could be the neighbors next door (but soon realized that they live in a completely detached house, so they couldn’t have heard anyone through the walls); 3) How am I going to get out of here, since I’m on the second floor and there’s a burglar downstairs? I was totally and utterly convinced that there was someone walking around in their kitchen. It was kind of like a shuffling sound, as if the person was moving around the room — it wasn’t evenly paced like they were walking down a hallway. They also sounded quite heavy and sturdy, as if it were a male and not a female. I got out of bed and walked down the stairs to look over the banister into the kitchen, but it was pitch-black and I could see nothing. So I ran upstairs, put my head phones on, and went to sleep. I never heard the footsteps again. And truthfully I didn’t think much of it after that. Until my brother and his family came home…. On their way home from the airport, they stopped by my house where I live with my parents. I suddenly remembered what had happened and I said to my sister-in-law, “I thought I heard footsteps in your kitchen one night!” and laughed. She looked at me and said, “Oh, I see you’ve met our little ghost.” I couldn’t believe it. I asked her to explain. She said that about a year ago (soon after they moved in), she and my brother were sleeping in their room when suddenly my sister-in-law woke up when she heard someone walking in their room. She waited for what she thought was one of her children to jump into her bed. Nothing happened, so she asked my brother if one of the kids was in the room (she wears glasses and can’t see well without them, especially since it was dark). He said no, but that he too had heard someone come into the room. They both sat up in bed and listened, and sure enough they heard footsteps start on one side of the room, and walk all the way around the bed to the other side. She has told me also that her children (who share a room) have woken up a couple of times in the middle of the night to see two glowing red eyes in their room, but that since my brother has started renovating, the sightings have stopped. I’m never house-sitting for them again.
Dim Sum & Then Some! Haunted Chinese Restaurant In Toronto – CLOSED???
** UPDATE – January 2012 Urbanspoon.com stated that the Bright Pearl was closed and my husband and I were downtown Chinatown and noticed that the side steps had cardboard covering them and the inside lights were off. The outside lights were still on though? Not sure if this is a permanent thing. I hope not. The ambiance was great but they could work on a few things like not take so long with the food next time. Plus I would like more dinner specials. Anyways, just thought I would let you all know.
——————————————————————————————————————————————————
December 2007
About two weeks ago I received a flier from the Bright Pearl Chinese restaurant, located on Spadina Avenue, in Chinatown. Big deal, right? Well instantly I recognized the picture of it from the book Haunted Toronto, by John Robert Columbo. I was so thrilled to find out that they were still in business. I thought that they were closed because the main entrance, right on Spadina, was sealed. Later I learned that the door was moved in an attempt to better a somewhat troubling spirit situation. My husband and I planned to go for dinner that coming Friday night. The minute we got there I felt unusually afraid and very cold. When I sat down it seemed the cold was swirling around me. My heart was racing and I felt so much energy I needed to take extra time ordering. Knowing what it may have been before was a little unsettling, but I felt that there was more than that. I was sensing so much activity there and I even went around after our meal looking for something. I guess after my own experiences I sometimes feel that I am seeking more paranormal puzzle pieces to help make a clearer picture for myself to see what else is out there. I never saw anything or heard anything out of the ordinary… just a lot more confusing vibes. The food was good, but the portions were a bit small. I felt that there could have been a lot more meat to be honest. The dim sum and drinks were reasonable at around $3.00 – $6.00 each, but I found the dinner combos a bit pricey. We ordered the dinner for two A ($36.95+tax), 2 drinks and 3 dim sum platters and it was over $70 dollars with tax & tip. They are a rather upscale restaurant and we frequent more economical establishments where dinner for two starts at $19.99 and with much larger portions too. I will most likely go there again, but most likely for a brunch or lunch and not dinner. I still think that it’s a must visit because the ambiance is rather something any true paranormal lover should experience. For further details please check out the following link of the restaurants website,
http://www.brightpearlseafood.com/
A bit of history about this location can be found at GHRS at the link below,
http://www.torontoghosts.org/hsing.htm
** UPDATE – January 2012 Urbanspoon.com stated that the Bright Pearl was closed and my husband and I were downtown Chinatown and noticed that the side steps had cardboard covering them and the inside lights were off. The outside lights were still on though? Not sure if this is a permanent thing. I hope not. The ambiance was great but they could work on a few things like not take so long with the food next time. Plus I would like more dinner specials. Anyways, just thought I would let you all know.
——————————————————————————————————————————————————
December 2007
About two weeks ago I received a flier from the Bright Pearl Chinese restaurant, located on Spadina Avenue, in Chinatown. Big deal, right? Well instantly I recognized the picture of it from the book Haunted Toronto, by John Robert Columbo. I was so thrilled to find out that they were still in business. I thought that they were closed because the main entrance, right on Spadina, was sealed. Later I learned that the door was moved in an attempt to better a somewhat troubling spirit situation. My husband and I planned to go for dinner that coming Friday night. The minute we got there I felt unusually afraid and very cold. When I sat down it seemed the cold was swirling around me. My heart was racing and I felt so much energy I needed to take extra time ordering. Knowing what it may have been before was a little unsettling, but I felt that there was more than that. I was sensing so much activity there and I even went around after our meal looking for something. I guess after my own experiences I sometimes feel that I am seeking more paranormal puzzle pieces to help make a clearer picture for myself to see what else is out there. I never saw anything or heard anything out of the ordinary… just a lot more confusing vibes. The food was good, but the portions were a bit small. I felt that there could have been a lot more meat to be honest. The dim sum and drinks were reasonable at around $3.00 – $6.00 each, but I found the dinner combos a bit pricey. We ordered the dinner for two A ($36.95+tax), 2 drinks and 3 dim sum platters and it was over $70 dollars with tax & tip. They are a rather upscale restaurant and we frequent more economical establishments where dinner for two starts at $19.99 and with much larger portions too. I will most likely go there again, but most likely for a brunch or lunch and not dinner. I still think that it’s a must visit because the ambiance is rather something any true paranormal lover should experience. For further details please check out the following link of the restaurants website,
http://www.brightpearlseafood.com/
A bit of history about this location can be found at GHRS at the link below,
http://www.torontoghosts.org/hsing.htm
——————————————————————————————————————————————————
December 2007
About two weeks ago I received a flier from the Bright Pearl Chinese restaurant, located on Spadina Avenue, in Chinatown. Big deal, right? Well instantly I recognized the picture of it from the book Haunted Toronto, by John Robert Columbo. I was so thrilled to find out that they were still in business. I thought that they were closed because the main entrance, right on Spadina, was sealed. Later I learned that the door was moved in an attempt to better a somewhat troubling spirit situation. My husband and I planned to go for dinner that coming Friday night. The minute we got there I felt unusually afraid and very cold. When I sat down it seemed the cold was swirling around me. My heart was racing and I felt so much energy I needed to take extra time ordering. Knowing what it may have been before was a little unsettling, but I felt that there was more than that. I was sensing so much activity there and I even went around after our meal looking for something. I guess after my own experiences I sometimes feel that I am seeking more paranormal puzzle pieces to help make a clearer picture for myself to see what else is out there. I never saw anything or heard anything out of the ordinary… just a lot more confusing vibes. The food was good, but the portions were a bit small. I felt that there could have been a lot more meat to be honest. The dim sum and drinks were reasonable at around $3.00 – $6.00 each, but I found the dinner combos a bit pricey. We ordered the dinner for two A ($36.95+tax), 2 drinks and 3 dim sum platters and it was over $70 dollars with tax & tip. They are a rather upscale restaurant and we frequent more economical establishments where dinner for two starts at $19.99 and with much larger portions too. I will most likely go there again, but most likely for a brunch or lunch and not dinner. I still think that it’s a must visit because the ambiance is rather something any true paranormal lover should experience. For further details please check out the following link of the restaurants website,
http://www.brightpearlseafood.com/
A bit of history about this location can be found at GHRS at the link below,
http://www.torontoghosts.org/hsing.htm
Toronto’s CFRB Strange Planet With Richard Syrettith
If you are interested in stories about a haunted telephone (found right here in Toronto!), local exorcisms and other strange but true events, then you should listen to Richard Syrettith’s Strange Planet.
Below is a link to some clips that I found on the net, they will give you a flavor of this rather odd savor. I’m really glad I found this show because I’m sure I will learn more about Toronto paranormal, as well as strange but true stories from all over the world!
http://www.cfrb.com/media/collection/596737
***********************************************
If you are interested in stories about a haunted telephone (found right here in Toronto!), local exorcisms and other strange but true events, then you should listen to Richard Syrettith’s Strange Planet.
Below is a link to some clips that I found on the net, they will give you a flavor of this rather odd savor. I’m really glad I found this show because I’m sure I will learn more about Toronto paranormal, as well as strange but true stories from all over the world!
http://www.cfrb.com/media/collection/596737
***********************************************
Below is a link to some clips that I found on the net, they will give you a flavor of this rather odd savor. I’m really glad I found this show because I’m sure I will learn more about Toronto paranormal, as well as strange but true stories from all over the world!
http://www.cfrb.com/media/collection/596737
***********************************************
Great Gift Ideas For A Paranormal Lover
I had to do a little Christmas Shopping last night and I went to the Worlds Biggest Bookstore, on Yonge & Dundas, http://toronto.ibegin.com/retail/worlds-biggest-bookstore, and I was happy to find that they have paranormal books for sale on the second floor. Also on the second floor, near the downward escalator, you will happen upon a ghostly display which includes at least 3 books from John Robert Columbo himself. True Canadian Haunting Stories, More True Canadian Ghost Stories and an alien book (that I should have picked up too) for $9.99 each (plus tax). They are also having a sale.. buy 3 books and get the 4th free so I received the cheapest book free for $9,99. I also picked up a Ghost Hunting Chronicles hard cover book for $14.99 (plus tax) that seems to be a great paranormal guild to ghost hunting. For my forth book I found The Midnight Hour by John Robert Columbo for 19.99 (plus tax). Chapters Indigo would be another great store to check for paranormal books. I unfortunately didn’t make it to the location in the Eaton’s Centre, but I checked their site online and they had a good selection. They are also having the 4 for 3 sale too! http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/ I buy myself the best Christmas presents! Both locations are having the sale until December 24, 2007. HMV, on Yonge Street, had tons of DVDs for really reasonable prices. I purchased 28 Days Later & Shawn of the Dead for $20 plus tax. I buy myself the best presents lol!
I had to do a little Christmas Shopping last night and I went to the Worlds Biggest Bookstore, on Yonge & Dundas, http://toronto.ibegin.com/retail/worlds-biggest-bookstore, and I was happy to find that they have paranormal books for sale on the second floor. Also on the second floor, near the downward escalator, you will happen upon a ghostly display which includes at least 3 books from John Robert Columbo himself. True Canadian Haunting Stories, More True Canadian Ghost Stories and an alien book (that I should have picked up too) for $9.99 each (plus tax). They are also having a sale.. buy 3 books and get the 4th free so I received the cheapest book free for $9,99. I also picked up a Ghost Hunting Chronicles hard cover book for $14.99 (plus tax) that seems to be a great paranormal guild to ghost hunting. For my forth book I found The Midnight Hour by John Robert Columbo for 19.99 (plus tax). Chapters Indigo would be another great store to check for paranormal books. I unfortunately didn’t make it to the location in the Eaton’s Centre, but I checked their site online and they had a good selection. They are also having the 4 for 3 sale too! http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/ I buy myself the best Christmas presents! Both locations are having the sale until December 24, 2007. HMV, on Yonge Street, had tons of DVDs for really reasonable prices. I purchased 28 Days Later & Shawn of the Dead for $20 plus tax. I buy myself the best presents lol!
A Possessed Apartment In Toronto
You Know When An Exorcism Has Gone Too Far When…
A Toronto Reverend crosses the paranormal line…
Toronto Reverend Charged With Assaults In Bizarre Alleged Exorcisms
Monday December 10, 2007
A Toronto holy man stands charged with behaviour hardly becoming of one.
The congregation at the Mount Zion Revival Church of the Apostles has long called Reverend Frank Lawrence their spiritual leader, which likely means many were stunned at the news he’ll stand trial for alleged sex assaults and threatening death reportedly in connection with what police allege were bizarre exorcisms.
Lawrence is charged with the sexual assaults of two women, including one of his former parishioners who claims she was promised a spiritual healing in a ritual of baths that involved alcohol, onions and oils. The woman ended up pregnant, and now has a little one-year-old girl.
A second woman alleges the reverend went through a special ritual with her that involved meeting over a fresh grave where he actually pushed her down and sex with her. She believes that’s when she also conceived a child.
Lawrence reportedly founded the church, which ran out of a strip plaza location at Oakwood Avenue and Rogers Road for 25 years. The bizarre trial also includes allegations Lawrence threatened to kill one of the victims as well as the church treasurer.
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17565.aspx
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A Toronto Reverend crosses the paranormal line…
Toronto Reverend Charged With Assaults In Bizarre Alleged Exorcisms
Lawrence is charged with the sexual assaults of two women, including one of his former parishioners who claims she was promised a spiritual healing in a ritual of baths that involved alcohol, onions and oils. The woman ended up pregnant, and now has a little one-year-old girl.
A second woman alleges the reverend went through a special ritual with her that involved meeting over a fresh grave where he actually pushed her down and sex with her. She believes that’s when she also conceived a child.
Lawrence reportedly founded the church, which ran out of a strip plaza location at Oakwood Avenue and Rogers Road for 25 years. The bizarre trial also includes allegations Lawrence threatened to kill one of the victims as well as the church treasurer.
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17565.aspx
*************************************
Toronto Reverend Charged With Assaults In Bizarre Alleged Exorcisms
Monday December 10, 2007
A Toronto holy man stands charged with behaviour hardly becoming of one.
The congregation at the Mount Zion Revival Church of the Apostles has long called Reverend Frank Lawrence their spiritual leader, which likely means many were stunned at the news he’ll stand trial for alleged sex assaults and threatening death reportedly in connection with what police allege were bizarre exorcisms.Lawrence is charged with the sexual assaults of two women, including one of his former parishioners who claims she was promised a spiritual healing in a ritual of baths that involved alcohol, onions and oils. The woman ended up pregnant, and now has a little one-year-old girl.
A second woman alleges the reverend went through a special ritual with her that involved meeting over a fresh grave where he actually pushed her down and sex with her. She believes that’s when she also conceived a child.
Lawrence reportedly founded the church, which ran out of a strip plaza location at Oakwood Avenue and Rogers Road for 25 years. The bizarre trial also includes allegations Lawrence threatened to kill one of the victims as well as the church treasurer.
http://www.citynews.ca/news/news_17565.aspx
*************************************
Ghosts & The Man Who Hunts Them – Thien Huynh — Sun Media
About a month ago I posted a link to the above mentioned article, but due to technical difficulties it was lost so I thought I would re-post it . Also, some accounts were lost too so please feel free to re-sign up. Sorry for any inconvenience.
Ghosts, and the man who hunts them
By THIEN HUYNH — Sun Media
24 Hours-Toronto
Have you ever felt a tingly chill suddenly brush your neck, as if someone whispered in your ear? How about that feeling that you’re being watched? You either have a peeping- tom problem or a haunting on your hands.
When there’s something strange in the neighourhood, who you going to call? Some people turn to John Mizzi, a Toronto-based investigator for Paranormal Studies and Investigations Canada. Just don’t call him a ghost buster.
“We don’t vanquish ghosts. We just investigate to see if they are there. First, I look for natural causes such as creaky stairs or cold spots that are just drafts,” says Mizzi, an electrical mechanic by day and ghost hunter by night.
Mizzi comes to each potential haunting armed with an array of special equipment. He’s fully-loaded with infrared lights, EMS meters that read magnetic fields, thermal meters, a shotgun microphone and most importantly, three tape recorders.
“I bring three tape recorders and place them near different people. Most of the electronic voice phenomena readings indicate that ghosts communicate directly near our head level, as if they are whispering to us. So when you’re alone sometimes and hear a faint voice, it could be more than your imagination,” says Mizzi.
You’d think a paranormal investigator would be fearless, but Mizzi admits to getting creeped out sometimes.
“I still get the willies late at night. My scariest encounter was when I was a kid. Our house in Etobicoke was haunted by a ghost that would run across my bedroom hallway at night. One time I woke up to find a large indent in my bed, as if someone was sleeping beside me,” says Mizzi.
As far fetched as ghost hunting might sound, the Toronto Ghosts and Hauntings Research Society reports that there were over 20 paranormal sightings in residential homes and lists over 70 hauntings in public buildings and businesses, ranging from the Keg Mansion to City Hall, where there are definitely evil spirits and scary new taxes lurking around that need to be vanquished.
— Thien runs Thursdays in 24 hours.
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/WeirdNews/2007/10/25/4604663-sun.html
About a month ago I posted a link to the above mentioned article, but due to technical difficulties it was lost so I thought I would re-post it . Also, some accounts were lost too so please feel free to re-sign up. Sorry for any inconvenience.
Ghosts, and the man who hunts them
Have you ever felt a tingly chill suddenly brush your neck, as if someone whispered in your ear? How about that feeling that you’re being watched? You either have a peeping- tom problem or a haunting on your hands.
When there’s something strange in the neighourhood, who you going to call? Some people turn to John Mizzi, a Toronto-based investigator for Paranormal Studies and Investigations Canada. Just don’t call him a ghost buster.
“We don’t vanquish ghosts. We just investigate to see if they are there. First, I look for natural causes such as creaky stairs or cold spots that are just drafts,” says Mizzi, an electrical mechanic by day and ghost hunter by night.
Mizzi comes to each potential haunting armed with an array of special equipment. He’s fully-loaded with infrared lights, EMS meters that read magnetic fields, thermal meters, a shotgun microphone and most importantly, three tape recorders.
“I bring three tape recorders and place them near different people. Most of the electronic voice phenomena readings indicate that ghosts communicate directly near our head level, as if they are whispering to us. So when you’re alone sometimes and hear a faint voice, it could be more than your imagination,” says Mizzi.
You’d think a paranormal investigator would be fearless, but Mizzi admits to getting creeped out sometimes.
“I still get the willies late at night. My scariest encounter was when I was a kid. Our house in Etobicoke was haunted by a ghost that would run across my bedroom hallway at night. One time I woke up to find a large indent in my bed, as if someone was sleeping beside me,” says Mizzi.
As far fetched as ghost hunting might sound, the Toronto Ghosts and Hauntings Research Society reports that there were over 20 paranormal sightings in residential homes and lists over 70 hauntings in public buildings and businesses, ranging from the Keg Mansion to City Hall, where there are definitely evil spirits and scary new taxes lurking around that need to be vanquished.
— Thien runs Thursdays in 24 hours.
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/WeirdNews/2007/10/25/4604663-sun.html
Ghosts, and the man who hunts them
By THIEN HUYNH — Sun Media
24 Hours-Toronto
When there’s something strange in the neighourhood, who you going to call? Some people turn to John Mizzi, a Toronto-based investigator for Paranormal Studies and Investigations Canada. Just don’t call him a ghost buster.
“We don’t vanquish ghosts. We just investigate to see if they are there. First, I look for natural causes such as creaky stairs or cold spots that are just drafts,” says Mizzi, an electrical mechanic by day and ghost hunter by night.
Mizzi comes to each potential haunting armed with an array of special equipment. He’s fully-loaded with infrared lights, EMS meters that read magnetic fields, thermal meters, a shotgun microphone and most importantly, three tape recorders.
“I bring three tape recorders and place them near different people. Most of the electronic voice phenomena readings indicate that ghosts communicate directly near our head level, as if they are whispering to us. So when you’re alone sometimes and hear a faint voice, it could be more than your imagination,” says Mizzi.
You’d think a paranormal investigator would be fearless, but Mizzi admits to getting creeped out sometimes.
“I still get the willies late at night. My scariest encounter was when I was a kid. Our house in Etobicoke was haunted by a ghost that would run across my bedroom hallway at night. One time I woke up to find a large indent in my bed, as if someone was sleeping beside me,” says Mizzi.
As far fetched as ghost hunting might sound, the Toronto Ghosts and Hauntings Research Society reports that there were over 20 paranormal sightings in residential homes and lists over 70 hauntings in public buildings and businesses, ranging from the Keg Mansion to City Hall, where there are definitely evil spirits and scary new taxes lurking around that need to be vanquished.
— Thien runs Thursdays in 24 hours.
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/WeirdNews/2007/10/25/4604663-sun.html
Haunted Toronto, In Demand!
Apparently the Haunted Toronto book, by John Robert Columbo, has become quite the smoking hot commodity. Amazon.ca was selling them used for around $342.00 US, but it’s down to $80 now! I was very lucky to score mine on Ebay for only $19.99 US last month! but I’m sure there are a lot of other places that one might look in order to obtain their own. If you would like your own copy just keep an eye out for one both on and off line. Thrift shops are a great place to look for vintage and used treasures. And don’t forget to check the online classifieds like Kijiji and Craigslist.Â
Apparently the Haunted Toronto book, by John Robert Columbo, has become quite the smoking hot commodity. Amazon.ca was selling them used for around $342.00 US, but it’s down to $80 now! I was very lucky to score mine on Ebay for only $19.99 US last month! but I’m sure there are a lot of other places that one might look in order to obtain their own. If you would like your own copy just keep an eye out for one both on and off line. Thrift shops are a great place to look for vintage and used treasures. And don’t forget to check the online classifieds like Kijiji and Craigslist.Â
Video Footage Of A Toronto Ghost?
I was bored and didn’t really feel like going to sleep yet, so I did a little search and found this video and thought I should post it. I’ve never seen an actual ghost before… other than the glowing spheres that have showed up in a few of my family photos. I’m not sure if this is legit or not, but I certainly hope it is.
http://tinyurl.com/28unmx
What do you think?
I was bored and didn’t really feel like going to sleep yet, so I did a little search and found this video and thought I should post it. I’ve never seen an actual ghost before… other than the glowing spheres that have showed up in a few of my family photos. I’m not sure if this is legit or not, but I certainly hope it is.
http://tinyurl.com/28unmx
What do you think?
http://tinyurl.com/28unmx
What do you think?
Gibraltar Point Lighthouse
While reading Haunted Toronto, written by John Robert Columbo, I came across a section featuring a haunted lighthouse that is located at the southwestern tip of the Toronto Islands. I was really chilled with the events that Mr. Columbo entailed.
I have been to the Islands dozens of times and always felt something eerie, heavy and dark there. It contradicted the beauty that surrounded me so I always shook it off, but when I learned of the lighthouse, all the pieces feel into place and made sense. The gruesome tale involved a caretaker and soldiers that were in search of lager, but the only thing was that the caretaker did not want to give it up. Well I’m sure you can probably guess what happened next, but for those who want every juicy detail then might I suggest that you read the book or search about the lighthouse on the net. I found a site that is dedicated to the lighthouse and it’s history…
http://www.rudyalicelighthouse.net/OntLts/Gibraltr/Gibraltr.htm
I attempted to go to the lighthouse this fall but the ferry was on a reduced schedule and only dropping off and picking up those from Ward Island. We tried to walk, but we didn’t even make it to Centre Island. I was very disappointed, but I guess I will re-visit in the spring.
While reading Haunted Toronto, written by John Robert Columbo, I came across a section featuring a haunted lighthouse that is located at the southwestern tip of the Toronto Islands. I was really chilled with the events that Mr. Columbo entailed.
I have been to the Islands dozens of times and always felt something eerie, heavy and dark there. It contradicted the beauty that surrounded me so I always shook it off, but when I learned of the lighthouse, all the pieces feel into place and made sense. The gruesome tale involved a caretaker and soldiers that were in search of lager, but the only thing was that the caretaker did not want to give it up. Well I’m sure you can probably guess what happened next, but for those who want every juicy detail then might I suggest that you read the book or search about the lighthouse on the net. I found a site that is dedicated to the lighthouse and it’s history…
http://www.rudyalicelighthouse.net/OntLts/Gibraltr/Gibraltr.htm
I attempted to go to the lighthouse this fall but the ferry was on a reduced schedule and only dropping off and picking up those from Ward Island. We tried to walk, but we didn’t even make it to Centre Island. I was very disappointed, but I guess I will re-visit in the spring.
I have been to the Islands dozens of times and always felt something eerie, heavy and dark there. It contradicted the beauty that surrounded me so I always shook it off, but when I learned of the lighthouse, all the pieces feel into place and made sense. The gruesome tale involved a caretaker and soldiers that were in search of lager, but the only thing was that the caretaker did not want to give it up. Well I’m sure you can probably guess what happened next, but for those who want every juicy detail then might I suggest that you read the book or search about the lighthouse on the net. I found a site that is dedicated to the lighthouse and it’s history…
http://www.rudyalicelighthouse.net/OntLts/Gibraltr/Gibraltr.htm
I attempted to go to the lighthouse this fall but the ferry was on a reduced schedule and only dropping off and picking up those from Ward Island. We tried to walk, but we didn’t even make it to Centre Island. I was very disappointed, but I guess I will re-visit in the spring.
Are We Scared Yet?
Insight
Insight
Are we scared yet?
Grab your Ouija boards and take a Halloween trip into the beyond through some of T.O.̢۪s spookiest and most majestic haunts
1.Toronto Don Jail
(Gerrard and Broadview) The most notorious prison in Canada was closed in 1993, leaving a slew of horror stories boarded up inside its barred confines, including the legend of a blond-haired ghost. True believers say the spirit of the woman, who hanged herself, still inhabits the jail’s rotunda.
2. Old City Hall
(Queen and Bay) Two Star reporters eager to test the theory that Old City Hall is haunted by the ghosts of the last men condemned to hang in Canada reported “cool fogs” and “weird sounds” during a sleepover. A strange presence has also been reported by visitors in the northwest attic.
3. Church of St. Mary Magdalene
(Manning and Ulster) The Grey Lady of St. Mary Magdalene has appeared to several of the church’s choirmasters over the years. Her arrival is usually announced, they say, by a whiff of cheap perfume.
4. Hillside Church
(Old Finch and Reesor) Reports of strange noises and “screams” (peacocks from the nearby Toronto Zoo? the ghost of the young girl murdered at nearby Old Finch bridge?) continue to swirl around this 1877 church and cemetery in a remote wooded corner of the Rouge Valley that time forgot. Leaves rustle without the force of wind here.
5. Gibraltar Point Lighthouse
(Ward’s Island) The original lighthouse keeper, Radan Muller, was murdered under mysterious circumstances on a cold night in January 1815. One story says he was thrown from the top of the lighthouse and that his ghost is still searching for his body parts believed buried in the vicinity.
6. Soldier’s Memorial
(University of Toronto) Are those strange flashes of light sometimes seen through the tower’s windows an otherworldly sign of the presence of a repairman who plunged 43 metres to his death while polishing the carillon’s bells in the 1930s? Or a message from the dead soldiers memorialized below?
7. Greenbrae Circuit
(Markham and Lawrence) According to the Ghosts and Hauntings Research Society, the presence of native spirits, awakened when home construction in the mid-50s disturbed a 14th-century Iroquois burial ground, are often felt — accompanied by a mysterious smell of fish.
8. St. Lawrence Market
(Front and Jarvis) The city’s original City Hall also housed its first police station and jails, where the tortured souls of those beaten and whipped in public outside the Market are said to linger.
9. St. Michael’s Hospital
(30 Bond) Staff and former patients say Sister Vincenza, “Vinnie” to her friends, a nun who used to work at the hospital, is still doing her rounds in Ward 7b — turning lights on and off, with a black, circling chasm where her face should be. Is that a Code Blue we hear?
10. Jarvis Street Baptist Church
None of the literature we came across suggests Jarvis Street Baptist is haunted. But lore says the winged goblins adorning this church’s arches, which have to rate as the spookiest in the city, are to chase away evil spirits. Just what omens is the church hiding?
NOW | OCTOBER 25 – 31, 2007 | VOL. 27 NO. 8
http://www.nowtoronto.com/issues/2007-10-25/news_insight.php
Now Toronto
1.Toronto Don Jail
(Gerrard and Broadview) The most notorious prison in Canada was closed in 1993, leaving a slew of horror stories boarded up inside its barred confines, including the legend of a blond-haired ghost. True believers say the spirit of the woman, who hanged herself, still inhabits the jail’s rotunda.
2. Old City Hall
(Queen and Bay) Two Star reporters eager to test the theory that Old City Hall is haunted by the ghosts of the last men condemned to hang in Canada reported “cool fogs” and “weird sounds” during a sleepover. A strange presence has also been reported by visitors in the northwest attic.
3. Church of St. Mary Magdalene
(Manning and Ulster) The Grey Lady of St. Mary Magdalene has appeared to several of the church’s choirmasters over the years. Her arrival is usually announced, they say, by a whiff of cheap perfume.
4. Hillside Church
(Old Finch and Reesor) Reports of strange noises and “screams” (peacocks from the nearby Toronto Zoo? the ghost of the young girl murdered at nearby Old Finch bridge?) continue to swirl around this 1877 church and cemetery in a remote wooded corner of the Rouge Valley that time forgot. Leaves rustle without the force of wind here.
5. Gibraltar Point Lighthouse
(Ward’s Island) The original lighthouse keeper, Radan Muller, was murdered under mysterious circumstances on a cold night in January 1815. One story says he was thrown from the top of the lighthouse and that his ghost is still searching for his body parts believed buried in the vicinity.
6. Soldier’s Memorial
(University of Toronto) Are those strange flashes of light sometimes seen through the tower’s windows an otherworldly sign of the presence of a repairman who plunged 43 metres to his death while polishing the carillon’s bells in the 1930s? Or a message from the dead soldiers memorialized below?
7. Greenbrae Circuit
(Markham and Lawrence) According to the Ghosts and Hauntings Research Society, the presence of native spirits, awakened when home construction in the mid-50s disturbed a 14th-century Iroquois burial ground, are often felt — accompanied by a mysterious smell of fish.
8. St. Lawrence Market
(Front and Jarvis) The city’s original City Hall also housed its first police station and jails, where the tortured souls of those beaten and whipped in public outside the Market are said to linger.
9. St. Michael’s Hospital
(30 Bond) Staff and former patients say Sister Vincenza, “Vinnie” to her friends, a nun who used to work at the hospital, is still doing her rounds in Ward 7b — turning lights on and off, with a black, circling chasm where her face should be. Is that a Code Blue we hear?
10. Jarvis Street Baptist Church
None of the literature we came across suggests Jarvis Street Baptist is haunted. But lore says the winged goblins adorning this church’s arches, which have to rate as the spookiest in the city, are to chase away evil spirits. Just what omens is the church hiding?
NOW | OCTOBER 25 – 31, 2007 | VOL. 27 NO. 8
http://www.nowtoronto.com/issues/2007-10-25/news_insight.phpNow Toronto
Going Places In Toronto Can Be Scary This Time Of Year – Norther Life Article
Going Places: Toronto can be scary this time of year
Date Published | Oct. 25, 2007
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Haunted Toronto
I was very lucky today because I happened upon a copy of Haunted Toronto by John Robert Columbo for only $19.99 US on Ebay! I saw a copy on Amazon for over $675!! I am really looking forward to it! Speaking of Ebay I have seen a lot of haunted items listed on there. The scariest was a possessed clown doll that would walk the halls of the seller’s home, so much so, in fact, that it’s shoes were worn. Very spooky! Go ahead and take a look for yourself and search the word “haunted” next time your on Ebay… I dare you.
I was very lucky today because I happened upon a copy of Haunted Toronto by John Robert Columbo for only $19.99 US on Ebay! I saw a copy on Amazon for over $675!! I am really looking forward to it! Speaking of Ebay I have seen a lot of haunted items listed on there. The scariest was a possessed clown doll that would walk the halls of the seller’s home, so much so, in fact, that it’s shoes were worn. Very spooky! Go ahead and take a look for yourself and search the word “haunted” next time your on Ebay… I dare you.
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