Many people have come across Ouija boards, whether you fear them or not they have likely been brought up at sleepovers or Halloween parties. These boardS have been sold as a toy but their dark history means they may not be quite as family-friendly as a game of scrabble.

People have found ways to communicate with the dead throughout the entirety of history. From rituals that promised access to spirits from beyond the grave to mediums that offered a voice to the dead through themselves.

The Ouija board is yet another form of communication with the dead, allowing them to speak to us via a board that has the alphabet transcribed upon it. Users ask a question, the spirit will answer, sometimes with a simple yes or no, other times spelling out words or phrases.

In the 19th century, spiritualism was rife in America and many were finding ways to attempt communication with those who had lived before them. Although the exact origins of the Ouija board are unknown, one company decided to utilise the idea and commercialise it to the public.

Finding this gap in the market and taking advantage of a spiritual practice was perhaps not as wise as it first appeared but 1892 the talking board was gaining popularity. The Kennard Novelty Company had released a game board named Ouija to the public.

Still wildly popular today, there is still uncertainty about whether or not the board truly works or if it is just a gimmick. However, there are many undeniably spooky stories about people who have used the boards which show that it is, at least, not something which should be used lightly.

The creators of the board met grisly ends, with William Fuld dying tragically in a factory accident which ended in one of his ribs piercing his heart. Although no foul play was determined, it is curious that he would meet such a gruesome end.

If you’re interested in ghost hunting events, contact RIP-UK today!