The Bell Witch

You don't have to be from Adams, Tennessee to have heard of the John Bell Farm. This spot, along with a nearby cave, are considered among the most famous places in America. For nearly 200 years, our attention has been captivated by the Bell Witch.

In 1817 the Bell family had their first haunting experiences. Knocking, rapping and scratching could be heard throughout their home. As the haunting developed, blankets were pulled off beds. It was not uncommon for a member of the Bell family to be scratched, kicked, or have their hair pulled. Little 12-year-old Betsy Bell seemed to be tortured more than the rest - she was pinched, bruised, slapped, and even stuck with pins.

Understandably, John Bell initially wanted to keep things under wraps. After confiding in a friend, an investigative committee was formed and the presence in the home found a voice.

The ghost said it was the witch of Kate Batts. Batts was a neighbor John had done business with regarding purchased slaves. Kate began appearing daily, in various locations in Robertson County.

John soon became ill, and the Bell Witch claimed she was responsible. He was found incredibly sick in bed one morning, with a bottle of strange liquid nearby. His breath smelled like the liquid, and when a drop was administered to a housecat, the cat promptly died. When John followed suit, the witch triumphantly screamed, and even attended his funeral.

The Bell Witch then tortured Betsy Bell, John's wife, for a time. She left after promising to return seven years later; she kept her promise. During her return, she warned John Bell Jr. of certain events including the Civil War and the World Wars. The witch then said she would return in 1935, but as far as anyone could tell, she did not.