Ghost hunter drawn to house

Ghost investigator Linda Zimmermann in the basement of Montgomery’s Patchett House, next to sinks that were used for embalming when the house was a funeral home.JEFF GOULDING/Times Herald-Record

MONTGOMERY — When Linda Zimmermann began writing about Hudson Valley hauntings, she wasn't sure if she could fill a book. In September, she released the eighth volume of "Ghost Investigator."

One of her latest pursuits was the spirit in Montgomery's Patchett House, where Zimmermann spoke Sunday before a candlelit tour.

Once a funeral home, the Patchett House has been host to many a spooky incident. Late at night, Shawn Dell Joyce, founder of the house's current tenant, the Wallkill River School, has heard an old-fashioned telephone ring. Gallery signs have mysteriously popped off the walls. And a Patchett descendent reportedly saw his late Aunt Emma — the home's previous owner — in the window of the house.

"There might be a spirit tied to the house that cares very deeply about what happens to this house and takes great pains to keep it safe," Dell Joyce said.

Zimmermann uses thermal imaging cameras and electromagnetic field meters to confirm a ghostly presence. The former research chemist brings a scientific sensibility to her paranormal work and skepticism to every assignment. Her first investigation at the Patchett House was inconclusive.

But Zimmermann is compelled to return by the home's historic character. Her paranormal career stemmed from an interest in local history, and after telling just one ghost story during a lecture she soon became known as "the ghost lady." Since then, she's been invited to locations around the region and across the country. But Zimmermann keeps her research local. Her latest book includes accounts of Montgomery's Borland House, the Ulster County Jail and Fort Montgomery.

"There are so many stories in the Hudson Valley," the Chester resident said. A driving-tour book of haunted spots along the Hudson River is due out in the spring.

With Halloween approaching, Zimmermann said she's overwhelmed with requests for appearances. But once the busy season subsides, she plans to spend the night at the Patchett House. Whether Aunt Emma appears or not, Zimmermann might have a new chapter for volume nine.

The Wallkill River School is holding candlelit tours of the Patchett House, 232 Ward St., Montgomery, at 8 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in October. Tickets are $10. Call 457-2787.