Paranormal Investigations at the Historic SDG Jail

Public Investigations

Next Available: No Dates Currently Scheduled
210 minutes
$69.99 per Investigator
Spookiness Scale

The Historic SDG Jail (aka the Cornwall Jail) in Cornwall, Ontario, is a site we have been asked about for years and we are thrilled to be able to offer weekends of investigations there with Phantoms of Yore. Constructed in 1833 and active until 2002, the jail served as both a minimum and maximum security facility over that time. Several executions were carried out on-site, in addition to the suicides and murders. Due to the jail’s dark history and frequent ghost stories, it has attracted the interest of ghost hunters from across North America. This 3.5-hour special event will begin with a full briefing on the haunted history of the site, the equipment to be used, and the best practices to follow when collecting and analyzing evidence. Then you will have the opportunity to venture inside the jail – in the dark – to see what you can discover. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to investigate one of the most sought-after haunted sites in Ontario. With such small groups, tickets are extremely limited. Transportation not provided. DATES: Jan 17 & 18, 2025

What makes the Historic SDG Jail a great place to investigate?

Eric from Phantoms gives a tour of the spooky site!

Wondering what the Historic SDG Jail is like? Join Eric as he shares some of the highlights from the location and places of particular paranormal importance. 

Who are Phantoms of Yore?

Phantoms of Yore are the Haunted Walk’s official paranormal investigations partners. POY was founded in March 2018 by Elliot Luijkenaar (left) and Eric Oickle (right). The pair wanted to assist in the preservation of unique historical sites by facilitating public Paranormal Investigations. Over the past three years they have hosted dozens of popular events and have helped raise thousands of dollars for restorative work, renovations and other funding needs. Some of the sites include: L’Original Jail, Murney Tower, Ninette Sanatorium, Cornwall Jail, Mill of Kintail and the HI Ottawa Jail Hostel.

What happens at public investigations?

Simply put, these events allows guests to be paranormal investigators for the evening. These suspenseful, entertaining and informative experiences share the history, folklore, paranormal accounts about the site, and the theories and hypothesis behind paranormal investigations. Investigators film their own experiences and the footage is uploaded so it can be reviewed for possible paranormal captures. Live feeds are also included in most events, allowing for patrons to have instant access to the footage. Many paranormal enthusiasts and experienced investigators watch the live feed to help detect anomalies.

Upcoming Investigations

Check out what other amazing haunted sites you can explore!

More Spooky Fun!

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Next available: February 23, 2025
75 minutes
Adults $24.99, Youth (up to 14) $19.99

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Next available: March 1, 2025
120 minutes
$64.99 per person

From January to March, we offer a special winterized version of the Original Haunted Walk, complete with the comfort of cozy indoor stops. Be captivated by our friendly and talented storytellers, each wearing one of our iconic black cloaks, as they recount the area’s most spine-tingling ghostly tales. Using lanterns to light our way, we’ll lead you to Ottawa’s most haunted places, such as Grant House, the elegant Fairmont Château Laurier, and the city’s infamous haunted high school. This memorable evening will forever alter your perception of the city and its historic buildings. Ideal for all ages, this tour is a favourite among families, the curious, and paranormal enthusiasts alike. Please note, that during the winter, we may adapt the tour route and stories to better suit weather conditions. Cette visite est également disponible en français.

Next available: February 22, 2025
75 minutes
Adults $29.99, Youth (up to 14) $21.99. Save $5 on tours from Monday to Wednesday.