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Barnes Common Phantom Prisoner

Barnes Common, SW13, London Apparition Victorian

Barnes Common in south west London is home to a rather eerie sighting. After dusk, a phantom prisoner is said to appear, silently walking across the common. He's easily recognisable in his grey clothing covered with many black arrows. It's thought that this ghostly figure and a phantom nun may have originated from the nineteenth century. The nun is said to glide across the common in a zig-zag fashion, adding to the mystique of this location.

Historically, Barnes Common has had its fair share of strange occurrences. One notable incident involved Spring-Heeled Jack, a legendary figure known for his brutal attacks. In September 1837, Jack appeared on two consecutive nights, first to a businessman who ran away in fear, and then to a girl who was left unconscious after being assaulted. Her friends fled the scene during the attack. While these events are well-documented, the connection between Spring-Heeled Jack and the phantom prisoner and nun remains unclear.

Historical Context

The common has been a public park since ancient times, with documented history dating back to the 19th century.

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Public Park
Activity Types
Visual
Witness Credibility
Multiple Witnesses
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
Prisoner and nun possibly nineteenth century, Jack in September 1837
Postcode Area
SW13

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