When British couple Emmie Brookman and Norton Johnston began renovations on their historic home in Barrowford, Lancashire, they expected challenges—but nothing prepared them for the macabre discovery hidden within their walls. What began as a routine home improvement project quickly turned into a bizarre and unsettling dive into the superstitions and dark history of the 16th century.
The Start of a Dream Home… With a Twist
The couple purchased the 16th-century farmhouse with hopes of restoring it to its former glory. As co-founder of a luxury interiors business, Emmie was enthusiastic about giving the aged building a modern yet respectful upgrade. But shortly after construction began, the pair noticed odd structural quirks and began uncovering items buried deep inside the home’s walls. What they found was not plaster or timber, but something far more chilling—bones.
Discovery of the Bones
At first, the couple feared they had uncovered a crime scene. The bones were discovered embedded in the stone walls, prompting initial concern and confusion. “I was absolutely stunned,” Emmie recalled. “It was the last thing I expected during a home renovation.”
The bones weren’t alone. Alongside them were bundles of herbs, twine, and small artifacts, appearing ritualistic in nature. Fearing the worst, they contacted local historians and experts to determine the origin of these creepy objects.
A Glimpse Into the Past: Warding Off Evil
To their relief—and fascination—experts informed the couple that the bones were animal remains, not human. But their presence was no accident. According to local historians, it was a common 16th-century practice to place animal bones and protective charms inside the walls of homes to ward off witches, demons, and evil spirits. This ritual, known as apotropaic magic, was especially popular in rural areas of England during the witch trials and periods of religious tension. Items such as dried herbs, bones, and even shoes were often hidden in walls, chimneys, and doorways to form protective barriers against dark forces.
A Home With a Darker Backstory
The bizarre discovery took a darker turn when the couple found out that a convicted murderer once lived next door to their property. While there’s no confirmed link between that individual and their home, the coincidence added an eerie layer to their already chilling findings. Still, Emmie and Norton have decided not to let the home’s spooky past interfere with their dreams. Instead, they’ve leaned into the history, preserving some of the original wall sections and incorporating historical elements into the modern restoration design.
Finding Charm in the Creepy
Rather than being scared off by the grim past, the couple has embraced the uniqueness of their discovery. “It makes our home stand out. It’s a part of history,” Norton said. Emmie added that she plans to display some of the found artifacts in a small shadow box as a conversation piece. Their story has since gone viral, with many praising the couple for respecting the home’s heritage while giving it new life.
Conclusion: A Home With a Story
What began as a standard renovation turned into a journey through centuries-old folklore and superstition. By uncovering and embracing their home’s mysterious past, Emmie and Norton have not only added character to their property but have also brought attention to the rich, sometimes dark history hidden within England’s oldest homes. Their farmhouse is now more than a restoration project—it’s a living piece of history.
