NC museum features 'haunted dolls,' other paranormal items
It was just a couple of years ago that I learned about The Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum. The only one dedicated to the subject in North Carolina. I respect the inexplicable just as much as scientific facts. And although I didn't know what to expect on our way to Littleton, I knew I'd be open to whatever we experienced.
After some online research, Mrs. Beasley- a doll believed to be haunted - and other museum items captured my attention. Does she really move as some have claimed? Does the clown's eyes and mouth change in its reflection? Getting there was the only way to find out for myself.
Stephen Barcelo, is the owner and founder of this unique place. He's a man of many hats. At one time a New York journalist and after relocating to North Carolina, he became the mayor of Littleton. Fast forward to present day, and he's now a full time cryptozoologist, which is a person who studies animals like Bigfoot.
Barcelo and his employee Liz were refreshingly personable and readily answered all of our questions. We swapped personal stories and shared experiences. They also gave us an impromptu tour and played a bit of video footage from one of their ghost hunts.
It was fascinating!
I've already mentioned haunted dolls and clowns, but what else did we see? There were quite a few interesting items with equally gripping stories and descriptions. The museum is small in size but Barcelo's collection is nothing less than impressive. Check out three items I found of particular interest.
1. Dybbuk box - Used to hold malevolent spirits
2. Haunted hay crane - Negative energy is believed to be attached to it because of past unfortunate circumstances surrounding it.
3. Spirit photography (ghost photography) - the goal is to capture ghostly figures or other spiritual entities
In addition to paranormal phenomena and artifacts, you'll also find displays dedicated to Bigfoot. (You may be more familiar with the terms Sasquatch or Yeti.) And while we're not Bigfoot enthusiasts, my daughters and I were intrigued by the documented sightings and footprint casts.
Accounts of UFO and alien encounters are also a part of the museum collection. That was an aspect I wasn't expecting to see. Stephen Barcelo has a wide range of interests and it shows in this one of a kind museum!
How to make the most of your visit to the Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum
I consider a visit to The Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum worth the drive whether you're a fan of the paranormal and mystic creatures, or simply consider it all pseudoscience and entertainment.
Take advantage of your time by fully reading display information and examining the paraphernalia. My daughters especially enjoyed using K2 meters to detect electromagnetic fields. And there's a small section of pews inside where guests can sit to watch video footage.
Do all of it, and then conduct research on your own time. Obviously, none of this is guaranteed to make you a believer, but you may have fun exploring something new. It's the element of adventure that makes this most appealing.
While on the subject of adventure, ghost hunts and tours can be booked via the museum. Call directly or inquire about them during your visit. Be sure to keep an eye out for upcoming festivals and events.
The Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum is located at 300 North Main St. in Littleton.
