ALMONTE – Grab your proton pack and your dog-eared copy of Tobin’ Spirit Guide and help the Mill of Kintail with their paranormal investigation.

“Join the Phantoms of Yore and investigate the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area which features a historic 1830s Grist Mill and a 19th century Gate House,” Mill of Kintail staff released in a statement. “Activity has been reported in both locations since opened to the public. Activity includes doors opening, closing and locking. Furniture moves in the night. Unexplained creeks in the floorboards and stairs. Uneasy feeling of being watched. Knocking. Cold spots. Motion sensors triggering.”

Starting this weekend, the popular conservation area will be hosting Spirits of the Wind, The Mill of Kintail: A Public Paranormal Investigation.

This Friday and Saturday evening (July 10, 11) stating at 7:30 p.m. the public is invited to partake in this slightly spooky event.

The mill has a 190-year history and much of it spooky.

“The rich history includes the lives of two pioneers of physical education, Robert T. Mckenzie and James Naismith the inventor of basketball,” organizers said. “Close friends raised in Almonte, they used to play in the grist mill when it was abandoned. Mckenzie purchased the mill in the 1930s and named it the Mill of Kintail renovating it into his summer home. Well known and famous people attended his summer home for the beautiful nature and perhaps for the ghosts. William Lyon Mackenzie King did perform seances at the Mill of Kintail when visiting. Has a door been opened that has not been closed? Can this explain the paranormal activity? Perhaps Naismith and Mckenzie have returned to the mill in spirit, their most beloved place? Some say its Ethel, Mckenzie’s wife that was unhappy with the renovations done?”

Participants attend a paranormal workshop, where they will be using the tools of the trade; partake in discussion on theory and hypothesis in the paranormal field; and enjoy a historical presentation. There will be sugary snack and lots of caffeine.

“It’s going to be a late night of communication with spirit,” Mill of Kintail staff said. “Step into the dark and document your investigation with all the tools of the trade, new school and old school using our infrared cameras. Post event review of your footage. What did you and your friends capture?”

Warm clothing is recommended as it can get cool at night, do not wear clothing that swish and swoosh. Wear comfortable shoes, this event is over five hours long. No strong perfumes or colognes. Alcohol use is prohibited. You must be 18 years or older to attend.

Organizers are also taking in to account current pandemic safety precautions.

“We are reorganizing the event structure to reduce any possible risk of infection,” organizers said. “Rather than one large gathering the ticket holders will be split into small groups no greater than eight, with preference to two households. Personal protection equipment will be provided if you do not have your own. The equipment you will be using will not be shared with anyone outside you household. Stationary equipment will be handled by the team who will be equipped with PPE. Each group will have their own bottle of sanitizer. Temperature readings will be taken at the door, prior to entrance. All refreshment will have manufactured packaging. Coffee will be available and handled by the team equipped with PPE. We are taking every precaution necessary to ensure we create a safe environment.”

The groups and arrival times will be sent by email to ticket holders the Wednesday prior to the event weekend. Please arrive at least 10 minutes early, limited space is available. To register, or for more information, click here.