Here is a bizarre story from October 1903 where Amish worshippers in Eagle Grove, Iowa encounter an unknown phantom or ghost. Unusual account originating from an Amish community.
The Cedar Rapids Republican, Cedar Rapids, Iowa - 3 October 1903
Eagle Grove, Iowa Oct. 2.– "Tense excitement and fear now prevails in the usually quiet and peaceful neighborhood surrounding a little church building six miles east and north of town, where the sedate and staid Amish farmers and their families are wont to congregate on the Sabbath day for the purpose of attending worship. The cause of this excitement and trembling is a real live ghost, whose favorite haunt and particular station seems to be the immediate vicinity of that little white church, so silent and still, on the prairie.
The ghost, or phantom, or “spook,” or “hobgoblin,” or spirit or whatever it may be seems to be of a playful nature, and not at all afflicted with suicidal tendencies, as ghosts are often reported to be. This particular nocturnal visitant, so it is reported by stout hearted men to whom fear is unknown and who have seen it, is of a tenuous, ethereal nature, about four feet in height, squatty and broad, with long wide arms, and with big black eyes as large as your hand.
The ghost was first seen some time ago by a Clarion young man who was returning home at the midnight hour, after having spent the evening with his sweetheart. Arriving home he related his experience on the following day. Many Clarion people kept watch for it but never caught a glimpse of the apparition. About a week ago some the good people living in that neighborhood were reported to have seen the ghost.
Last Saturday night four of our young men, well equipped with muscle, brawn and nerve, drove out to investigate the truth of the ghost stories and to prove that it was all imaginings of the effeminate minded. They returned, however, thoroughly convinced that the ghost was the real thing.
After having drove around the church and up and down the road branches at the church, and not having seen or heard anything strange or terrifying, they decided to return and give up the quest. Passing the church they were startled and horrified to see a thing which appeared to be a shadow crouching low on the church steps. As they approached it began to move, beckoning with its hands for them to follow. They attempted to shoot, but just as the eye caught the head, apparition would disappear. By this time their hair was standing on end and perspiration streamed from every pore. Driving around the building it disappeared under one corner. Hearing a slight sound overhead, they beheld it standing on the church roof, beckoning with its outstretched arms. Enough. It was more than flesh and blood could stand. They drove rapidly from the haunted place, satisfied and glad to get away.
Every night since then, many of our brave and reckless youths, and older ones too, have kept a close watch, determining to solve the mystery. Many scoff and laugh at the four who saw the ghost, but they stoutly maintain that they saw it, and felt its mysterious influence."
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