The history of supernatural encounters in America is rich with tales that echo through time, from New England’s misty shores to the Deep South’s haunted plantations. But when did Americans first record seeing ghosts? One landmark case in 1687, in Gloucester, Massachusetts, marks the first documented ghost sighting in colonial America.

Ann Foster, a widow, reported seeing the ghost of James Sherwin, a man who had tragically died in a well the previous winter. The ghost appeared dripping wet, pointing towards an old barn. Over two weeks, five others, including a farmer and a servant girl, corroborated her account. Remarkably, the ghost’s gestures led to the discovery of hidden silver coins in the barn, which Sherwin’s widow confirmed he had stashed away. Reverend John Hale meticulously documented these events, providing invaluable insight into colonial beliefs and early approaches to the supernatural.

This case set a precedent for investigating paranormal claims in America, introducing systematic documentation and the importance of multiple witness testimonies. It also reflected the distinct character of American ghost stories, rooted in the realities of colonial life rather than European aristocratic tales. The Sherwin haunting became a cornerstone for American folklore, influencing both cultural narratives and modern paranormal research methods.

Historians and researchers today continue to find the account compelling due to its detailed documentation and alignment with contemporary paranormal investigation techniques. The Sherwin case remains a fascinating window into early American life and the origins of ghost hunting as we know it.