Paranormal Investigation at Stannum House: A Glimpse Beyond the Veil
- Benjamin Thompson
- May 1
- 22 min read
Updated: May 3
Join me beyond the veil into the mystique corridors of Australia's historic Stannum House as I retrace the steps of my paranormal investigation in this grand 19th century beauty that is steeped in history and whispers of moments lost in time.
Stannum House 2023 - B J Thompson
Stannum House: A Glimpse Beyond the Veil
The Architectural Marvel: Stannum House Through the Ages
Stannum House, constructed in 1888 by the visionary John Holmes Reid, stands as an architectural marvel nestled within the heart of Tenterfield, New England, New South Wales, Australia. Its grandeur is unparalleled, a testament to the opulence of the Victorian era. But behind its ornate facade lies a tale woven with secrets, echoing through the halls of time.
This grand mansion, perched atop Tenterfield's highest point, owes its existence to the riches drawn from tin mining, encapsulating the legacy of the Reid family who called it home for over five decades. Picture a triple brick rendered behemoth, adorned with bay windows, a cast iron veranda, and balcony decorations that whispered tales of opulence.
The vestibule, a splendorous entryway, greeted guests with a four-panel front door flanked by side and fan lights, leading into rooms adorned with relics from a bygone era. Exquisite antiques once cherished by the Reid family adorned three meticulously restored rooms, showcasing their opulence and taste.
Ascend the graceful spiral cedar staircase to discover a world of unparalleled beauty. Hand-engraved glass windows filter light into rooms adorned with Italian marble fireplaces, a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. It's said that even the very granite steps were hewn by skilled local stonemasons.
Stannum House Juliet Balcony, Dining Room, Front Door and Marble Fireplace - B J Thompson
Wartime Shadows: Stannum House in World War II
As the tides of history surged, Stannum House became an unwilling witness to the upheaval of World War II, its grand Victorian walls echoing with stories far removed from its original opulence. Nestled in Tenterfield, New South Wales, a town that played a pivotal role in supporting Australia's war effort, the mansion found itself at the heart of military activity.
Tenterfield's strategic location made it a hub for troops, with thousands stationed in the region, and Stannum House was repurposed to meet these pressing needs.
Built in 1888 by John Holmes Reid, the stately home transformed from a symbol of Victorian elegance into a military hospital, its ornate halls and Italian marble fireplaces overshadowed by the urgency of war. Once a residence that celebrated family gatherings and social grandeur, Stannum House now provided care for the wounded, its corridors filled with the cries of soldiers and the quiet resilience of medical staff. The mansion’s role extended beyond healing—it also served as a strategic command base for the Army, a testament to its prominence in the community.
During World War II, Tenterfield, became a significant military hub due to its strategic location. At its peak, the area hosted up to 10,000 troops, many of whom had returned from the Middle East and underwent jungle warfare training in preparation for deployment to New Guinea and the Pacific.
The town's importance was underscored by its designation as a key battleground in the event of a Japanese invasion. In 1942, thousands of soldiers were stationed in emergency camps around Tenterfield, a presence largely unknown to the local populace at the time. Remnants of this period, such as overgrown tank traps and gun emplacements, can still be observed near the New England Highway.
The Reid family, central figures in Tenterfield's society, watched their ancestral home adapt to the needs of a nation at war. When the war's turmoil faded and the soldiers marched home, Stannum House was returned to the Reid family in 1949. However, the scars left by global conflict were not just emotional. The family faced mounting financial challenges, exacerbated by the stock market crash that had struck before the war.
Despite their deep ties to the mansion and its legacy, they found themselves unable to maintain the grandeur of Stannum House.
Paranormal Investigation at Stannum House: A Glimpse Beyond the Veil
Northern Star (Lismore, NSW 1876 - 1954), Thursday 22 March 1928, page 5
Sydney Morning Herald (NSW 1842 - 1954), Saturday 8 February 1936, page 18
From Boarding House to Restoration: The Metamorphosis of Stannum House
However, the winds of fate shifted in 1954, when the Reid family relinquished their legacy to a Greek fruiterer. What ensued was a transformation, as the mansion metamorphosed into a boarding house. The roof tower vanished, and a new chapter began when a neighboring motel was erected.
In the year 1997, Kirk Jensen and Peter Gelhaar stepped into a relic of faded opulence. Stannum House, once a beacon of grandeur, had succumbed to the passage of time. Its original artwork obscured, carpets reminiscent of a bygone era, and a wallpaper scheme that echoed the 1970s. Undeterred by its lackluster state, Kirk, an expert in Victorian era restoration, embarked on a monumental quest to restore its former glory.
Gone were the shag-pile carpets and outdated linoleum floors, as Kirk meticulously reinstated the essence of the house's Victorian heritage. His dedication and expertise shone through the restoration, elevating the mansion to its former resplendence.
Years of unwavering dedication culminated in the grand reopening on June 2nd, 2003. Peter Maxwell Reid, the great, great grandson of the house's original architect, John Holmes Reid, stood alongside John Reid Mackie, the last surviving relative born within Stannum House. Their presence marked a poignant moment as the fully restored mansion stood once more as a testament to its heritage.
The doors of Stannum House swung open to reveal a metamorphosis. The mansion, reborn, now stands as a luxurious bed and breakfast. Downstairs rooms were meticulously preserved in their traditional layout, adorned with period pieces that whispered tales of a grandeur lost in time.
Gaze upon the opulence of a bygone era within these walls. The charm of yesteryears embraced in every meticulously restored corner. Stannum House, once dilapidated, now echoes with the laughter of guests, savoring the splendor meticulously resurrected by Kirk Jensen's touch.
Each room, a window into the past, speaks volumes of the dedication poured into its revival. A living testament to the legacy of John Holmes Reid, reborn through Kirk's unwavering commitment to Victorian-era restoration.
The metamorphosis of Stannum House stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of preservation and reverence for history. As its doors beckon travelers seeking an authentic glimpse into the past, it continues to honor its legacy, welcoming visitors to experience the grandeur of a bygone era.
The Reid Legacy: A Family That Shaped Tenterfield
Let’s delve into the life and legacy of a pioneer whose footsteps echoed through time, shaping not just an era but an entire district. John Holmes Reid, born on July 4, 1849, in Frederickborough, Ontario, Canada, was the son of James Johnstone Reid and Margaret Malcolm Holmes. From humble beginnings, Reid’s life journey led him across continents to the rugged landscapes of Tenterfield, New South Wales, where his legacy became intricately woven into the town's identity.
In 1849, as an infant, John Holmes Reid arrived in Australia with his family, finding a new home in the burgeoning community of Tenterfield. It was here that Reid’s pioneering spirit flourished. His contributions to the region were both vast and transformative, laying the groundwork for Tenterfield’s industrial and agricultural growth.
A Trailblazer in Industry and Agriculture
John Holmes Reid made history as the first man in New South Wales to smelt tin into ingot form, a groundbreaking achievement that revolutionized the mining industry in the region. His expertise in ore classification garnered him international recognition, with prestigious medals awarded for his mineral collections at exhibitions in Amsterdam and the Calcutta International Exhibition of 1883-1884. Reid was a certified mine engineer and an esteemed member of the American Institute of Mining Engineers, showcasing his technical prowess and leadership in the field.
Beyond his contributions to mining, Reid’s impact on agriculture was equally profound. He was the first person to plant wheat in the district, a bold move that not only demonstrated his agricultural foresight but also encouraged many others to follow his example. This act of innovation helped to diversify and strengthen Tenterfield’s agricultural foundation.
A Civic Leader and Community Pillar
John Holmes Reid’s influence extended far beyond his professional achievements. He was deeply invested in the civic life of Tenterfield, serving three terms as Mayor, during which time his leadership left an indelible mark on the town’s governance and development. It was during this period that Tenterfield was being considered, alongside other towns, as a potential site for the capital of Australia. The significance of the town was underscored by the historic Federation speech delivered there by Sir Henry Parkes.
Inspired by the national spotlight on Tenterfield and driven by an ambitious vision for the future, Reid aspired to become the Prime Minister of Australia and made the bold step into Federal politics. This dream of political prominence was physically manifested in the creation of the grand Stannum House, which he hoped would one day serve as Government House.
His commitment to the community was unwavering. He served as a long-standing President of the Agricultural Society and was an active member of the Primary Producers' Board.
Reid's dedication to public welfare was further evidenced by his instrumental role in the establishment of the P.A.M. Hospital (Presbyterian and Methodist Hospital) in Tenterfield, where he served as President for some time. His efforts in healthcare ensured that the town’s residents had access to essential medical services, a testament to his broader vision of community well-being. Additionally, Reid served for many years on the Pastures Protection Board, highlighting his commitment to sustainable land management and the agricultural prosperity of the region.
Methodist Adherants (Ancestry), The School Board (Ancestry) & Farmer and Settler (Sydney, NSW : 1906 - 1955), Friday 25 June 1909, page 4
A Family Legacy
In 1875, John married Emily Coxall, in Tenterfield and together they built a family and a home that would stand as a symbol of their legacy. The construction of Stannum House in 1888 was both a personal and public statement of the family's prominence. This grand Victorian mansion, perched atop Tenterfield’s highest point, became a beacon of architectural beauty and social gathering, reflecting the opulence of the era and the success of the Reid family.
John and Emily had 13 children, whose lives would further shape the family’s legacy:
Alice Reid (1876–1884)
Ethel Rose Reid (1878–1962)
Lucy Isabel Reid (1879–1966)
Lilian May Reid (1880–1974)
James Moffat Reid (1881–1915) – A poignant figure in the family’s history, Major Moffat Reid tragically lost his life at Gallipoli during World War I, a stark reminder of the sacrifices made in service to the nation.
Rowland Holmes Reid (1883–1885)
Percy John Reid (1884–1961)
Lola Lavinia Reid (1886–1971)
Amy Alexandra Reid (1887–1963) – A trailblazer in her own right, Amy became one of the first female pilots in Australia and went on to become the first woman in the British Empire to serve as President of an Aero Club.
Iris Ivy Reid (1889–1924)
Vera Margaret Reid (1890–1952)
Essie Reid (1893–1977)
The Reid family was not without its share of sorrow, with several children passing away young. Yet, the legacy of resilience and community engagement persisted through generations.
Stannum house c.1900 with Reid Family on top balcony
John Holmes Reid and his wife Emily Coxall
Daily Examiner (Grafton, NSW : 1915 - 1954), Tuesday 25 October 1932, page 4
Tenterfield Courier and District Advocate (NSW : 1914), Monday 23 March 1914, page 2
Major James Moffat Reid First World War
1887 Dewhurst, A. (n.d.). Main street through Tenterfield with Queensland’s ranges in the background.
A Lasting Impact
John Holmes Reid passed away on March 1, 1929, in the very home he had built—Stannum House. His passing marked the end of an era, but his legacy continued to resonate through the town of Tenterfield. His collections of minerals and expertise in mining were preserved in the local School of Mines, ensuring that future generations would benefit from his knowledge and dedication.
Reid's life is a testament to the power of innovation, leadership, and community spirit. He was a man whose vision shaped landscapes, industries, and lives. From his groundbreaking work in mining and agriculture to his unwavering commitment to civic leadership and public welfare, John Holmes Reid left an indelible mark on the canvas of history. His story is woven into the very fabric of Tenterfield, inspiring generations to come with the enduring spirit of pioneering ambition and community service.
Inscription 16028174 - John Holmes Reid
Maitland Weekly Mercury (NSW 1894 - 1931), Saturday 9 March 1929, page 4
Historic Guests of Stannum House: A Glimpse into Tenterfield’s Storied Past
Since its completion in 1888, this grand mansion has attracted a number of high-profile and culturally significant visitors, cementing its place in both local and national heritage.
One of the most notable guests to have stayed at Stannum House was Sir Henry Parkes, often referred to as the "Father of Federation." Parkes played a pivotal role in the movement to unite the Australian colonies into a single nation. His connection to Tenterfield is deeply rooted in history, as it was in this very town that he delivered his famous Tenterfield Oration in 1889, a speech that helped galvanize public support for Federation. Stannum House, with its stately presence and political importance at the time, was a fitting residence for such an influential figure during his visits.
Another famous name associated with Stannum House is Andrew Barton "Banjo" Paterson, one of Australia's most iconic poets and songwriters. Known for penning classics such as Waltzing Matilda and The Man from Snowy River, Paterson’s works are a cornerstone of Australian literary heritage. His connection to the house is a testament to the kind of elite cultural figures who were drawn to this majestic estate.
Adding to its historical prestige, Dame Nellie Melba, Australia’s most celebrated opera soprano and one of the most famous singers of the late Victorian era, is also said to have visited or stayed at Stannum House. Her global acclaim and cultural influence elevated her to near-royalty status in Australia, and her presence at Stannum House speaks volumes about the grandeur and societal standing of the property during its peak.
These distinguished visitors reflect the historical significance of Stannum House as more than just a luxurious residence. It served as a social and political hub, hosting key figures who helped shape Australia’s national identity. Today, its legacy continues—not just as a beautifully preserved heritage building and boutique accommodation, but as a silent witness to the people and moments that contributed to Australia's story.
Andrew Barton "Banjo" Paterson
Dame Nellie Melba
Sir Henry Parkes
A Paranormal Awakening: My Return to Stannum House
Now, let me take you on my personal journey through the captivating halls of Stannum House, a place where time seems to stand still amidst opulent Victorian grandeur. Join me as I recount my own encounter with this architectural marvel, where every detail whispered secrets of a bygone era.
On a dreary September afternoon, the chilling rain painted a somber backdrop as I returned to Stannum House, a place shrouded in mystery and riddled with secrets. My previous investigations in 2020 had unearthed fragments of its enigmatic past, but I sensed there was more to this Victorian abode than met the eye.
The air hung heavy with anticipation, each raindrop echoing a foreboding rhythm as if the house itself whispered ominous tales of forgotten truths. My heart quickened with a blend of excitement and trepidation, for I knew that behind the elegant facade lay concealed mysteries waiting to be unraveled.
Standing before the magnificent Stannum House, one is immediately struck by its commanding presence. The distinct salmon hue, adorned with opulent Victorian accents, sets it apart. The Juliet balcony, a symbol of elegance, adds a touch of allure to the facade, beckoning visitors into a world frozen in time.
Crossing the threshold, the allure of Stannum House unfolded before me. The main door opened to reveal a world adorned with treasures of Victorian antiquity. Yet, what truly captured my senses was the awe-inspiring Italian arch fresco, a tapestry of vibrant reds, glistening golds, and earthy tones, painting the entrance with a kaleidoscope of hues.
My gaze lingered on the intricate red cedar banister, a masterpiece of craftsmanship adorning the main staircase. Each curve and detail spoke volumes, a testament to the meticulous artistry of a bygone era.
As I ventured deeper into the mansion's embrace, the main hallway welcomed me with open arms. On either side lay the dining room and sitting room, meticulously curated to transport visitors through a temporal portal. The period pieces adorning these rooms whispered tales of an era steeped in sophistication and grace.
Within these walls, time seemed suspended. The ambiance, a symphony of nostalgia, where every piece of furniture and artifact conveyed a story of its own. It was as though I had stepped into a living tableau, a museum of Victorian elegance frozen in time.
The dining room's opulent table settings and the sitting room's plush furnishings created an atmosphere that felt more like a cherished memory than a mere room. Every corner exuded an aura of preserved history, inviting guests to immerse themselves in a world that once was.
For this evening's investigation, I brought with me my dear mother, who is opening up to her sensitive abilities and for her this was her first investigation.
Benjamin and Janet sitting outside Stannum House
The entrance hallway
Italian arch fresco
Italian arch fresco,
The entrance hall ceiling
Janet in the entrance hall
Children's Laughter in the Dark: An Encounter in The Josephine Room
As the night sky started to take hold, we unpacked in our room and got comfortable with our surroundings, The Josephine Room, adorned with a 4 poster bed, a marble fireplace and wall hung porcelain plates of Royalty.
I started to unpack the equipment in readiness for the evening, I placed some of the motion spirits ball on top of the marble fireplace, I turned back around to continuing to set up my night vision camera, then all of sudden i could see one of the spirit balls detect motion and start flashing in the reflection of the bedroom dressing table mirror.
My ability of clairaudience started to tune into the sound of children laughing, I openly ask “flash the ball again if this was a children's room, or if this is a child playing with the ball” The spirit ball lit up again, flashing in the dark room.
I thought my eyes were tricking me in the dark, as I thought the spirit balls were moving, so I investigated to see if there were any vibrations coming from the marble fireplace that might cause the spirit balls to be activated.
Then all of sudden the room went quiet, I continued setting up equipment then I ventured downstairs to have a wander around before we officially started.
Allow me to share my prior experience at Stannum before delving into tonight's events. I found myself in the Reid Room, once the domain of the lady of the house during the early days of Stannum. This room boasted high ceilings and the renowned Juliette balcony. It was around 11pm when I arranged motion spirit balls across the space, starting from the exquisite Italian marble fireplace—a relic brought specifically from Italy, aging gracefully at 200 years old. I placed them meticulously on the bedside tables, the dresser, and finally, the coffee table. Seated on the couch with a friend, we awaited, while the rest were downstairs winding down for the night. For about 10 minutes, we chatted until the spirit balls began flickering, first at the fireplace, then traversing the bedside tables, and finally, the door to the Juliette balcony swung open, seemingly nudged by an unseen force. Our initial reaction was a blend of startled screams followed by amused laughter at the inexplicable occurrence.
Moving on, I found myself admiring the stunning red cedar spiral staircase adjacent to The Reid Room. Filming the area, I sensed a strong presence of children, not directly engaging with me but observing from a distance. This energy intensified as I ascended the spiral stairs, envisioning it as an ideal playground for children. It wasn't until after the investigation, upon reviewing the footage, that I was struck by awe—a small child's face peering back from the darkness through the banister. Further discussions with fellow investigators led us to speculate that I might have captured one of the elusive twins known to frequent that particular area, drawn to playful activities.
The fire place inside the Josephine Room with the motion ball lighting up
Josephine Room Door
Spiral Staircase showing potentially a disembodied face
Benjamin climbing the Spiral Staircase
The Marble fireplace inside The Reid Room
The Reid Room
The Mysterious Presence of Janelle: A Spirit Reunited with Her Home
Let's delve back into my latest investigation's unraveling. I returned upstairs to join Mum after exploring downstairs in this magnificent estate. Mum was seated at the bed's end with a friend, murmuring, "She is back again," leaving me intrigued and anxious about what I might have missed!
As I filmed, the camera glitched over Mum's face, while she described a woman's presence beside her. Mum was overwhelmed, exclaiming, "Oh my God, I can feel it coursing through my entire body!" She emphasized that it wasn't sorrow but sheer happiness, tears of joy streaming down her face.
The spirit connecting with Mum appeared to be a young lady accompanied by a child, echoing my earlier sensation of a child's presence in that very room. The spirit's energy seemed strongly attuned to Mum, exuding an ethereal vibe.
Constantly checking the camera, I noticed the distortion only over Mum and not my friend. The connection was potent yet intermittent, akin to tuning into a distant radio station.
Mum sensed the energy moving from behind her to beside her, even around her feet, as if a child playfully darted around. She expressed feeling like the spirit was touching her heart, a beautifully serene sensation.
Attempting to engage the child's energy, I suggested playing with light-up balls for confirmation, but it yielded no response. Urging Mum to ask for the spirit's name, she received a "J" name, which Mum sensed wasn't Josephine but possibly Janelle.
As the energy seemed to wane, Mum remarked that Janelle might have departed. However, moments later, she exclaimed in awe, feeling Janelle's presence coursing through her body again, emanating pure happiness. Mum's face was still distorted on camera, but she appeared more like herself this time.
Messages from Janelle, conveyed through Mum, revealed her reluctance for her photo to be taken, expressing that she is a private person. We attempted to persuade Janelle's spirit to allow us to take her photo and reveal herself through this medium. "Can you take one?" she conveyed through Mum., the camera produced blurry results, leading us to chuckle at Janelle's playful antics.
Orbs appeared on camera over Mum's face, aligning with the ongoing experiences. Mum felt shifts of energy along her legs, sensing a touching sensation on her left leg.
Inquiring through Mum about Janelle's connection to the house and era, Mum indicated the 1890s, corroborated by an orb crossing the camera. Mum described feeling extreme coldness in her legs, attributing it to the spirit, affirming she wasn't scared but astounded by the sensation.
Mum characterized the sensation as a blend of pins and needles with goosebumps, reaffirming Janelle's radiant and cheerful energy, coinciding with another orb crossing the camera.
We all sensed the lingering presence of children, yet they seemed hesitant to interact, merely observing from a distance.
Mum mentioned two children accompanying Janelle, specifically noting a boy named Timmy. The room's atmosphere hinted at a past history of children, perhaps a place for cribs and beds.
The little girl's energy conveyed an unhappy past, but she urged us not to dwell on it, surrounded by vibrant colors and images of ducklings. She wished to be remembered as joyful, leaving behind any sadness.
Returning to Janelle, Mum sensed her age between 34 and 38, highlighting that she wasn't residing here when she passed, yet this place held her happiest memories. Mum described her as having light, curly hair.
I inquired if Janelle had a message to share, and Mum responded: "She simply wants us to know she's here, enjoying this space—it's still her home." As the camera glitched once more, Mum burst into laughter, describing Janelle as an incredibly joyful person, a bit of a prankster.
The room buzzed with palpable energy, marking Mum's profound first spiritual encounter. Janelle, through Mum, shared details of being a school teacher who cherished gardening, surrounded by vivid flowers in her visions. Suddenly, a strand of white hair caught the torchlight, gleaming as it descended from above.
While researching, I came across the article below — Could this be the reason for the overwhelming presence of children we felt? Was Janelle perhaps a school teacher or governess?
The Grumpy Specter of the Julius Caesar Room: Meeting George
Leaving momentarily to search for a photograph of Janelle, I stumbled upon something entirely
As I delved into the dark corridors of the old mansion, seeking traces of the elusive Janelle, my steps led me unwittingly to the ominous Julius Caesar room. The air hung heavy with a palpable sense of disquiet, and as my flashlight danced across the walls, I couldn't shake the eerie sensation of being watched from the shadows.
Summoning Mum and my friend to join me, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that surrounded the room. "This is the room," I whispered, my voice tinged with apprehension. "I need you to feel it. I don't enjoy the vibe in here."
As we stood in the oppressive silence, my friend's voice broke through the tension, her words laden with discomfort. "There's someone here," she said, her tone wavering. "A man, and he doesn't like me being in here."
Mum, too, sensed the presence of the spectral visitor, her intuition piercing the veil between the living and the dead. "I sense him," she murmured, her gaze drawn to the bed where I had previously felt the energy's unsettling presence. "A grumpy old man, in his 70s."
Dubbed George by our collective intuition, this spectral figure exuded an aura of resentment and bitterness, his spirit heavy with unresolved anger and regrets. His troubled relationship with his son loomed large, a specter of familial discord haunting his restless soul.
While George seemed to tolerate Mum's forthright demeanor, his disdain for my friend was palpable, his hostility simmering beneath the surface. Undeterred by his animosity, she stood her ground, refusing to be cowed by his spectral presence.
As we pieced together collectively with our intuition of George's troubled past, a portrait began to emerge—a white gentleman tethered to the land from the late 1700s to the late 1800s, his existence marked by simmering rage and unbridled arrogance. Despite the passage of time, his spirit remained ensnared in a cycle of bitterness, his anger casting gloom over the room.
Mum's revelation of feeling a cold presence where she believed George had met his end sent shivers down our spines, the weight of his lingering presence pressing upon us like a suffocating blanket.
As Mum engaged in a tense exchange with the cantankerous spirit, his disdain for her was palpable, his accusations of arrogance mirroring the simmering tension that hung in the air.
But beneath George's bluster lay a deeper truth—a festering wound borne of his fractured relationship with his son. It was a rift that transcended the boundaries of life and death, a bitter legacy that George carried with him into the afterlife.
My friend, undeterred by George's hostility, reached out once more to commune with his restless spirit. In a poignant moment of connection, she uncovered the heartbreaking truth—that George's son had turned away from him in his youth, severing ties over a decision that haunted George to his core.
As George's spectral form flickered before us, he offered glimpses of his final days—a bedridden figure consumed by illness, his body a prison for the turmoil that plagued his soul. With a mixture of trepidation and determination, I dared to sit upon the very bed that bore witness to George's suffering, the weight of his presence heavy upon my shoulders.
Meanwhile, as I persisted in documenting the unfolding events, the camera inexplicably refused to focus—a testament, perhaps, to the otherworldly forces at play. And then, as if in response to the invisible turmoil that engulfed us, The bed beneath me seemed to rock and creak, mirroring the emotions that roiled within George's spectral form.
In a moment of chilling clarity, Mum's revelation pierced the veil of the present, her words a stark reminder of the spectral echoes that reverberated within the room. "That's where I died," she declared.
As I grappled with the unnerving sensation of the bed shifting beneath me, I couldn't shake the feeling that George's restless energy was reaching out—a spectral hand, grasping for purchase in the murky depths of the unknown. And with each subtle movement, I felt the palpable threat of being cast adrift, at the mercy of forces beyond my understanding.
In a curious twist George said to mum, “oh that's your son” , obviously she replied and we had a little laugh. George playfully attributed the bed's movement to Mum's son, me—a fleeting moment of levity amidst the somber atmosphere. However, behind the casual exchange, lay a profound reality—an unyielding regret that tormented George's spirit, a yearning for reconciliation with the son he had estranged in his lifetime.
As we prepared to depart, a shadowy figure caught my eye, its form flickering in the dim light like a ghostly apparition. And then, as if in response to our presence, a motion spirit ball illuminated on the bed—a chilling confirmation of George's spectral presence.
When Mum tried to move away from the bed, George called out to her, his voice echoing in her senses. "Why are you leaving?" he asked, his tone filled with longing and frustration.
In a last effort to learn more, I asked George for his surname, a simple question that sent a shiver down my spine. In reply, the motion spirit ball flashed again, its eerie light casting a shadow over the room.
And as we turned to leave, Mum's voice rang out in the darkness, "George... his son's name is Gary," she whispered, her voice trailing off into the shadows.
Benjamin sitting on the bed where the presence of George could be felt
Janet in deep conversation with George
Benjamin and Janet beside the bed where a motion ball light was triggered
Unseen Eyes in the Stairwell: The Watchful Spirits of the Upper Floor
We ascended to the top of the enchanting spiral staircase, a spot where we had previously glimpsed the playful presence of the twins. This cozy nook seemed tailor-made for children's games, leading to a snug alcove that overlooked the skylight above the grand staircase.
Mum sensed the lingering energy of children playing hide and seek, their playful spirits filling the air with a sense of innocence. Despite their silent observation, Mum detected the presence of five playful souls, their eyes watching us from the shadows.
"Come and find me," Mum called out, attempting to engage the spirit children with our equipment. However, their response, conveyed through Mum, revealed their reluctance to interact—"We were told to come to dinner," they whispered, explaining their reticence to engage in play.
Throughout the evening, our attention was drawn repeatedly to the turret atop Stannum. Yet, with the lateness of the hour and the enveloping darkness, we decided to postpone further investigation of this intriguing space until our next visit.
As we retired to our room for the night, I attempted to set up our night vision camera to capture any nocturnal occurrences while we slept. Despite meticulously checking all the equipment beforehand, I struggled for twenty minutes to get the camera to function. Frustrated, I eventually abandoned my efforts, and we settled in with cups of tea before bed.
Throughout the night, none of us experienced any encounters or disturbances. It wasn't until we returned home that the night vision camera cooperated effortlessly. This incident brought to mind Janelle's earlier sentiments about privacy, reinforcing her reluctance to be photographed.
The top of the spiral stair case, Janet and Benjamin - B J Thompson
Uncovering the Past: Historical Clues Behind the Hauntings
Engaging in research to look for answers I delved into the historical archives, I uncovered numerous newspaper articles detailing the storied past of the majestic Stannum House. Of particular interest was an article dated August 23rd, 1947.
A Haunting Connection: Was George Part of the Reid Family?
As I delved into the background of "George," I stumbled upon a fascinating connection to the Reid family themselves. It turns out that George Jeffrey, the man we encountered, had ties to the Reid's through marriage. In 1934, George married Amy Alexander Reid, one of John Reid's daughters—the original owner and architect of the house. George hailed from Mingoola Station and had two sons from a previous marriage, George and Garth. Could it be that the George we connected with was indeed related to this family? And was "Gary" perhaps a nickname for Garth?
Aviation Pioneer and Daughter of Stannum
Further investigation revealed intriguing details about Amy Reid, The daughter of John Holmes Reid. A trailblazer in her own right, Amy made history as one of the first female pilots in 1932. Remarkably, she went on to become the first woman in the British Empire to hold the esteemed position of president of the Aero Club.
1933 Sir Charles Kingsford Smith and Amy Reid
Maryborough Chronicle, Wide Bay and Burnett Advertiser (Qld. 1860 - 1947), Monday 27 November 1933, page 6
Final Reflections: Echoes of the Past, Whispers of the Future
Amidst the emotional whirlwind of this investigation, there was a profound sense of honor in giving voice to these silent souls left behind, acknowledging their presence, and ensuring that their stories are not forgotten.
As I conclude this exploration, I'm reminded that the paranormal isn't just about ghosts and hauntings; it's about the human experience—the triumphs, the tragedies, and the emotional echoes that reverberate through the corridors of history.
With numerous lingering questions swirling in my mind, I can't help but wonder what secrets my next investigation will uncover about the hauntingly beautiful Stannum House.
Thank you dear readers for joining me and giving me the privilege to take you on my personal paranormal journey beyond the veil into The Historic Stannum House.
B J Thompson
Sources
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/194443447?searchTerm=%22tenterfield%20hostel%22#
https://retiredfromgypsylife.wordpress.com/2018/05/15/reasons-to-return-2-the-mansion/
https://www.visittenterfield.com.au/business-listings/world-war-2-tank-traps-mount-lindesay-road
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tenterfield%2C_New_South_Wales
https://tenterfieldrise.com.au/tenterfields-history-and-heritage-a-rich-tapestry/
https://www.visittenterfield.com.au/business-listings/mt-lindesay
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/194943477?searchTerm=%22Tenterfield%20military%22
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/99098946?searchTerm=%22Tenterfield%20home%20sold%22
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/115978367?searchTerm=%22Reid%20was%20unanimously%22
https://trove.nla.gov.au/work/255355367?keyword=%22Tenterfield%22
https://www.flickr.com/photos/hwmobs/51054419926/in/photostream/
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/192143663?searchTerm=%22tenterfield%20lady%20pilot%22
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/135791876?searchTerm=%22wedding%20mackie%20reid%22
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/127952359?searchTerm=%22John%20Holmes%20Reid%22#
https://ehive.com/collections/3492/australian-stockmans-hall-of-fame-and-outback-heritage-centre
https://www.facebook.com/groups/tenterfieldaerodrome/posts/1507291123254300/
https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/149255659?searchTerm=%22amy%20reid%22%20british%20empire
I always thought Stannum House was haunted, I cannot wait to visit!
Fantastic information
Your knowledge is clear, precise and grabs you to the edge of your seat thank you - l can not wait for more