Post date: Jul 19, 2011 9:4:6 PM
Our decision to investigate the Historic Columbian Cemetery was, in all honesty, a spur of the moment idea. One that, although it didn't directly help anyone, was still an enjoyable investigation and helped us realize some shortcomings in our equipment and techniques that we otherwise would not have known about. Since the investigation, we have been working on those issues, to the extent of discussing building specialized equipment ourselves; and we know what we've learned will translate into better investigations in the future, when people will be depending on us. Still, all in all it was a fun time.
Some back history:
The Historic Columbian has had many names over the years, including the Love Cemetery and the Columbia-Kenton Cemetery. Officially established to the public in 1857, the Historic Columbia was a private grave site before that. Originally owned by the Love family, it was later converted into a public cemetery when the need of the community rose. It is said to house at least 5,000 "guests" in its graves, with the latest we found being in 1980.
The cemetery itself is still owned, at least in part, by the Love family; as well as other families in the area with loved ones whom are buried within. Unfortunately, there isn't money available for the Historic Columbian's upkeep. The duties instead have fallen upon the shoulders of family members, of the deceased. Rather than being able to simply visit and mourn, they heroically take turns caring for the cemetery; ensuring that the residents are, at least in some way, respected and remembered after their passing.
During our visit, Kurt and I paid our respects to as many as we could. We were careful not to disrespect or disturb any graves, or the cemetery itself. We were sad to note that the trees and plant life of the cemetery, though obviously very old, were unhealthy and plagued by something. Whether it is metaphysical or natural in nature, it is easily seen that the vegetation closely reflects the somber state of the cemetery itself.
Unfortunately, the trip didn't provide us with much in the way of documented evidence. However, Kurt and I had many personal experiences; ranging from being touched to disembodied sounds and voices. Halfway through the night, we became the subjects of an unidentified stalker, following us through the cemetery. At one point, it rushed a tree less than five feet from us; literally rocking the tree, and of course causing both of us to jump. We decided the incident was someone "showing us the door", and taking the cue, soon left.
It was on our way out that we had a happy run in with a tiny denizen of the Historic Columbian. Now affectionately known as Scratch, the unofficial mascot of PPI, you will see our fuzzy little friend if you watch till the end of the video.
* Note: If anyone is interested in volunteering to the Historic Columbian Cemetery, and helping to maintain the home of so many Deceased Americans, please follow the link below for contact information: