Among these, the documentary “Bathsheba: Search for Evil” stands out, offering a deep dive into the enigmatic life of this alleged witch and the terrifying hauntings associated with her name.
In this article, I want to dive a bit deeper into the intricate web of fact and fiction surrounding Bathsheba Sherman, her connection to the infamous Perron family haunting, and the role she plays in the world of paranormal investigations.
Furthermore, I also want to review the making and reception of the “Bathsheba: Search for Evil“ documentary, providing insights into its production, cast, and the controversy it stirred.
From historical accounts to chilling supernatural tales, from real-life experiences to their portrayal in media, this comprehensive exploration of Bathsheba Sherman’s legend promises to be as informative as it is engaging.
Table of Contents
The Legend of Bathsheba Sherman
In the annals of American folklore, few figures are as enigmatic and chilling as Bathsheba Sherman.
Bathsheba Sherman’s Real-Life History
Bathsheba Sherman, born as Bathsheba Thayer in 1812, was a woman whose life would later become the subject of dark legends and grim tales.
However, the early years of her life were marked by ordinary events and circumstances, far removed from the chilling stories that would later surround her name.
Born into the Thayer family, Bathsheba grew up in a time and place where the echoes of the infamous Salem Witch Trials were still palpable. Despite this, her early life was largely uneventful.
As a young woman, Bathsheba was known for her beauty, which was often talked about in the local community.
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In her early thirties, Bathsheba married Judson Sherman, a farmer from Connecticut. The couple settled down in the rural landscapes of Connecticut, where they began their life together.
Historical records confirm that Bathsheba and Judson had a son, Herbert, who added to their small, close-knit family.
Bathsheba and her family moved to a 200-acre farm in Harrisville, Rhode Island, to pursue better opportunities.
Judson Sherman ran a profitable produce business from their farm, and for a time, it seemed like Bathsheba’s life was set on a path of contentment and prosperity.
However, the tranquility of Bathsheba’s life would soon be disrupted.
The community began to view her with suspicion and fear, and allegations of witchcraft and child murder would soon overshadow the ordinary life of Bathsheba Sherman.
The woman who was once known for her beauty was now feared as a witch, and her life would never be the same again.
Allegations of Witchcraft and Child Murder
The whispers of Bathsheba being a witch began to circulate when a child she was babysitting died mysteriously. The local doctors found that the child’s skull had been impaled with a small, fatal tool.
Despite being the last person to tend to the child, Bathsheba was never taken to court, but the incident ignited the flame of suspicion among the local community.
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The legend grew darker with the claim that Bathsheba had sacrificed her infant son to Satan using a sewing needle.
It was even said that her husband caught her in the act, and she, in turn, cursed all who would dare live on her land. Following this, she allegedly climbed a tree and hanged herself.
However, these tales remain largely unsourced, and the truth behind them is shrouded in mystery.
Connection to the Salem Witch Trials and Mary Eastey
The tales of Bathsheba’s alleged witchcraft have often been linked to the infamous Salem Witch Trials.
Some believe she was related to Mary Eastey, a woman hanged during the trials. This connection, however, is speculative and lacks concrete historical evidence.
Bathsheba’s life in Rhode Island in 1885 was marked by controversy and fear.
The Sherman Farm, where she lived with her husband, was said to be haunted. Many who lived there died under odd circumstances – drowning, hanging, and even murder.
These incidents only fueled the rumors of Bathsheba’s pact with the devil and her curse on the land.
Despite the grim tales and legends, the actual historical records present a different picture.
Bathsheba’s tombstone in downtown Harrisville reveals her date of death as May 25, 1885, contradicting the claims of her alleged suicide in 1849. Furthermore, no concrete evidence supports the allegations of child murder and witchcraft.
However, the legend of Bathsheba Sherman refuses to die.
It continues to captivate and terrify, blurring the lines between fact and fiction. Whether Bathsheba was indeed a witch or merely a victim of unfounded rumors and fear, her story remains a chilling chapter in the history of American folklore.
The Perron Family and the Alleged Haunting
In the early 1970s, the Perron family moved onto the property once occupied by Bathsheba Sherman, utterly unaware of the chilling tales associated with it.
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Roger Perron, a financially-strapped truck driver, his wife Carolyn, and their five daughters thought they had found their dream home in the 14-bedroom farmhouse.
However, their joy was short-lived, as they soon found themselves amid unexplainable and terrifying events.
Detailed Account of the Haunting Experiences Faced by the Perron Family
The haunting began subtly, with odd noises emanating from empty rooms and household items mysteriously disappearing. However, the situation escalated quickly.
The children began speaking of terrifying ghosts visiting them at night, including a boy named Oliver Richardson and a malevolent female spirit with a bent neck.
The latter was believed to be Bathsheba Sherman, who was intent on possessing Carolyn Perron to kill her and her children.
Desperate for help, the Perrons reached out to renowned paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren.
The couple, known for their work on high-profile cases such as the Amityville haunting, the Enfield Poltergeist, Smurl family haunting, or the Union Cemetery White Lady, agreed with the Perrons’ assessment that Bathsheba Sherman was haunting them.
They conducted a séance in 1974, during which Carolyn Perron allegedly got possessed and nearly died, further solidifying the belief in Bathsheba’s malevolent presence.
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The eldest daughter, Andrea Perron, has since chronicled her family’s traumatizing experiences in her book, “House of Darkness: House of Light.”
Despite skeptics dismissing the Warrens as profiteers of the unexplained, Andrea has stood by her story. She recounts the terrifying events in vivid detail, from her mother’s possession during the séance to the daily torment they faced at the hands of the spirits.
The Perron family’s ordeal finally ended in 1980 when they were able to move out of the house.
However, the haunting left a lasting impact on them, forever changing their lives.
‘Bathsheba: Search for Evil’ Documentary
The haunting tale of Bathsheba Sherman and the Perron family’s terrifying experiences have been brought to life in the documentary “Bathsheba: Search for Evil.”
This gripping film delves into the legend of Bathsheba Sherman, the alleged witchcraft, and the subsequent haunting of the Perron family, offering viewers a chilling exploration of the supernatural.
The production of the documentary involved meticulous research and careful recreation of the events as described by the Perron family and the Warrens.
Filming locations were chosen to closely resemble the original settings, including the infamous farmhouse in Harrisville, Rhode Island.
The cast was selected not only for their acting prowess but also for their ability to portray the intense emotions and fear experienced by the real-life characters.
The documentary’s reception has been mixed.
While some viewers found it a captivating and chilling exploration of the supernatural, others criticized it for its reliance on unverified accounts and lack of concrete evidence.
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The involvement of the Warrens, who have been controversial figures in the field of paranormal investigation, also sparked debates among viewers.
Despite the controversy, “Bathsheba: Search for Evil” has garnered significant viewership.
Its portrayal of the haunting, combined with the historical context of Bathsheba Sherman’s life, offers a unique perspective on one of the most chilling tales in American folklore.
Where to Watch Bathsheba: Search for Evil Online
This gripping film is available for streaming on various platforms, making it accessible to a global audience.
Here are some of the platforms where you can watch “Bathsheba: Search for Evil“:
- Netflix: Known for its vast library of films and series, Netflix is one of the platforms where you can find the documentary. However, availability may vary based on regional restrictions.
- Amazon Prime Video: Amazon Prime Video offers many documentaries, including “Bathsheba: Search for Evil.” Prime members can watch it for free, while non-members can rent or purchase it.
- Hulu: Hulu is another platform where the documentary is available. However, it requires a subscription, and availability may vary based on location.
- YouTube: Some Youtube channels have Bathsheba: Search for Evil documentary for free.
Please note that availability on these platforms can change over time and may be subject to regional restrictions. Always check the platform for the most current information.
Conclusion
The tale of Bathsheba Sherman and the haunting of the Perron family is a chilling chapter in the annals of American folklore.
From the historical accounts of Bathsheba’s life to the terrifying experiences of the Perron family, and the portrayal of these events in the “Bathsheba: Search for Evil” documentary, this exploration has delved into the depths of the supernatural.
Whether Bathsheba was a witch or a victim of unfounded rumors, her story continues to captivate and terrify.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Bathsheba: Search for Evil” documentary about?
The documentary explores the legend of Bathsheba Sherman, an alleged witch from Rhode Island, and the haunting experiences of the Perron family, who lived on her property years after her death.
Where can I watch the “Bathsheba: Search for Evil” documentary?
The documentary is available on various streaming platforms, including Netflix and Amazon Prime. Availability may vary based on regional restrictions.
Is the “Bathsheba: Search for Evil” documentary based on a true story?
The documentary is based on the accounts of the Perron family and their experiences with the supernatural, as well as the historical records of Bathsheba Sherman. However, the veracity of these accounts is a subject of debate.
Was Bathsheba Sherman a real person?
Yes, Bathsheba Sherman was a real person who lived in Rhode Island in the 19th century. However, the tales of her being a witch are based on folklore and lack concrete historical evidence.
Was Bathsheba Sherman related to Mary Eastey from the Salem Witch Trials?
Some believe Bathsheba was related to Mary Eastey, a woman hanged during the Salem Witch Trials. However, this connection lacks concrete historical evidence.
Did Bathsheba Sherman curse her property?
According to legend, Bathsheba cursed her property and all who would dare live on it. However, these claims are part of folklore and are not supported by historical records.
