SDG GAOL (CORNWALL JAIL)
Standing as a chilling reminder of Canada’s dark past, the SDG Gaol, or Cornwall Jail, whispers tales of torment, despair and restless spirits. Built in 1833 in Cornwall, Ontario, this foreboding structure served as both a minimum and maximum security facility for over a century and a half. Within its cold, oppressive walls, men, women and even children endured unimaginable conditions, often crammed into a single cell regardless of their crimes or circumstances. Among its many stories is the daring escape of four prisoners in 1835 – men who vanished into history, never to be seen again. The addition of the governor’s residence, in 1859, ensured the oversight of the constant flow of the prisoner’s tumultuous lives.
Over time, crime surged in the area, prompting the construction of two notorious cell blocks ominously nicknamed “Windowless” and “Hell’s Angels Wing.” But the gaol’s most unsettling legacy lies in the countless deaths that occurred here – from illness, violence, suicide and execution. Five hangings took place on these grounds and unclaimed bodies were unceremoniously buried on-site. Today, parts of the gaol’s parking lot, exercise yard and northern wing are believed to rest atop nearly 100 bodies, with some unearthed as recently as 1985 during construction. SDG Gaol finally closed its doors in 2002, with its remaining inmates transferred to Ottawa’s penitentiary system.
HAUNTINGS AND SPIRITS OF SDG GAOL
SDG Gaol is shrouded in an eerie atmosphere, where the past seems to linger in chilling ways. Visitors have reported a mysterious “lady in black,” often spotted by children as she glides silently through the halls. The ghost of a young boy, known as Matthew, is said to linger in the courtroom, his playful spirit weaving through the shadows. Echoing footsteps often fill the empty rooms, yet no trace of their source can ever be found.
Recordings inside the gaol have captured Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVPs), where vulgar, raw and angry language offers a glimpse into the torment of those who once lived and died here. The sounds of cell doors slamming shut has startled many and some visitors have claimed to feel an unseen hand brushing or tugging at their clothing.
Auditory phenomena are frequent and uncanny with visitors and staff often hearing the jingling of keys, the clinking of chains and even whistling echoing through the darkened corridors when no one is around. A harmonica’s melancholic notes have also been reported, drifting throughout the gaol as if played by unseen hands.
Shadow figures have been seen moving unpredictably, adding to the unsettling environment inside the gaol. The ghostly presence is perhaps tied to the tragedies that unfolded within these walls. The gallows saw the deaths of several condemned prisoners, their stories each etched into its haunted history. Clark Brown, hanged in 1879 for the murders of his father and young sister, is among its most infamous.
James Slavin’s final words, “Well, goodbye, gentlemen,” still linger in the tales of his vigil before the gallows in 1892. The spirits of John Vergryniuk, Thomas Collison and Peter Balcombe, all executed for violent crimes, are also said to still roam the premises. Even Henry Seguin, who escaped execution due to his own suicide, may still linger in the shadows. Together, they form a palpable presence that cements the SDG Gaol as one of the most haunted places in Canada.
VISITING SDG GAOL
The SDG Gaol offers an unforgettable experience for anyone intrigued by history, hauntings or both. Walking through its empty halls, you can feel the weight of the stories it holds. Every corner whispers of lives lost and restless spirits that may still continue to wander. From hearing chilling tales of those who met their fate at the gallows to potentially encountering the unexplained, a visit to this haunted landmark is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. If you dare to step into the past and uncover the gaol’s mystery for yourself you can plan your visit ahead of time or participate in a public investigation. However you decide to explore SDG Gaol you can be sure the spirits will be there, ready to share their secrets with you.
If reading about the hauntings and paranormal occurrences at SDG Gaol have captured your interest then you may also enjoy reading about the spirits and hauntings at Bodmin Gaol, located on the edge of Bodmin moor in Cornwall, England.
Thanks for reading!
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