History

Tuberculosis (TB): is a potentially fatal contagious disease that can affect almost any part of the body but is mainly an infection of the lungs. It is caused by a bacterial micro organism, the tubercle bacillus or Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Although TB can be treated, cured, and can be prevented if persons at risk take certain drugs, scientists have never come close to wiping it out. Few diseases have caused so much distressing illness for centuries and claimed so many lives. Definition from the Medical Encyclopaedia on Answers .com

While TB usually infects the lungs, it is quite capable of attacking other organs and parts of the body. Potential areas include joints, bones, urinary tract, central nervous system, muscles, and bones. As a result during the late 1800s and early 1900 when it was at its peak the death rate was about 80 percent. Even today if untreated it can be fatal.

During the fall of 1908 in Arkansas, Judge Hill, Dr. Meriwether and Senator Oldham met with then Governor George W. Donahey to present the plans for the Sanatorium. It was thought it mountains location and fresh air would be beneficial to the recovery of the infected. Between 1956-1958 there were 3,958 patients admitted for observation and treatment. Source: Reflection of Five Decades of Service, A History of the Arkansas Tuberculosis Sanatorium 1909-1959

Keep in mind not all the patients were voluntary! The way the law was written for the public good, if someone was suspected of being infected they could be taken there involuntarily(entire families), even in handcuffs. There was also a light side to the place, many formed life time friendships and there were several romances there that ended in long happy marriages.

The Sanatorium was almost a totally self sufficient community having a farm, water supply, kitchens, full medical facilities and offices and even a chapel just to name a few. In addition, the main building was five stories and had a 512 bed capacity.

When it finally closed on March 13, 1973 there was no telling how many thousands had passed through the gates. Even now as one walks the grounds or through the dark hallways, you cant help but wonder how many remained behind.

Investigator Viewpoint:

From the view of an investigator, the Sanatorium is perfect for training in investigative techniques and procedure. The exceptional size of the facility also provides training in scheduling multiple teams as well

Activities Reported

Over the years during investigations in which I have participated there have been multiple people who have experienced some of the following: audible music (usually old or like a music box), shadows, cold and hot spots, doors opening and closing, footsteps, smells like perfume or cigar and the intense feeling of being watched. EVPs indicate there is both active and residual activity taking place there with multiple sources.

Experiments:

Various light types included black, infrared, and a plasma globe, electrical via a Van de Graff generator; control objects i.e. toys, ghost box and spiritcom.

See also Human Bait Experiement

Behavioral Examples:

NOTES AND VALIDATIONS: