Haunted Cheney Mansion: From Stagecoach Stop to Spirit Haven, Part Two | Grave Talks CLASSIC

The Grave Talks | Haunted, Paranormal & Supernatural34mJune 12, 2026
AI-Generated Summary

The Cheney Mansion in Jerseyville, Illinois, isn't just a historic estate—it's a living archive of spirits, stories, and supernatural phenomena. Roger Sheffel, the caretaker and paranormal investigator, reveals how the house, once a stagecoach stop and later a grand home of the Cheney family, now pulses with activity. From orbs forming inside mirrors to growls echoing in the drunk room and apparitions appearing in hallways, the mansion delivers tangible, repeatable evidence that challenges skeptics. The most compelling moment? A video of a glowing orb materializing inside a mirror in the music room—captured accidentally during a routine review—so vivid it left Sheffel’s hair standing on end. But beyond the ghosts, the house thrives on legacy: donated artifacts, restored furniture, and a community that honors the past. Sheffel believes spirits aren’t just lingering—they’re playing, interacting, and even approving of the care given to the home. He shares how a psychic once communicated with Judge Darcy, the mansion’s builder, who affirmed his work with a visible reflection in a mirror. The house isn’t haunted in a scary way; it’s alive with joy, mischief, and connection. For visitors, it’s not just a tour—it’s a pilgrimage for history, mystery, and the thrill of the unknown.

Key Takeaways
1

A glowing orb formed inside a mirror in the music room and emerged outward—captured on camera, reviewed later, and verified as not dust or debris.

2

The spirit of Judge Darcy, the mansion’s builder, made physical contact by appearing in a mirror reflection, confirming approval of the caretaking efforts.

3

Spirits appear to respond to human energy—positive, playful groups often trigger more activity than skeptical or negative ones.

4

Over 90% of the house’s furnishings are original Cheney family pieces, returned through donations after the 1990s auction.

5

The house has hosted over 100 paranormal investigations with nearly every group reporting some form of experience.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
1:26
1 min

The Heart of the Haunting: Surveillance and the Sunroom

Roger Sheffel introduces the surveillance setup at the Cheney Mansion, explaining how 16 cameras cover the house, with the sunroom serving as the central hub for teams. This room is where investigators gather, take breaks, and monitor the entire house in real time.

2:24
2 min

The Orb That Defied Explanation: A Mirror Manifestation

It looked like it was formed and came out of the mirror. And that's what it looks like.

Highlight
4:12
2 min

Distinguishing Dust from the Supernatural: The Ghost Hunter’s Eye

Sheffel explains how experienced investigators can differentiate between dust, bugs, and true paranormal orbs. He acknowledges that many false positives come from inexperienced hunters, but insists some phenomena are unmistakably not natural.

6:04
2 min

The Turning Point: From Skeptic to Believer

I wasn't until I wasn't. And when I wasn't, it created an animal monster because I've been in love with it ever since.

Highlight
8:09
3 min

The Spirits Are Alive: Fun, Play, and Connection

I believe these spirits have as much fun with us as we do them.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
It looked like it was formed and came out of the mirror. And that's what it looks like.
Roger Sheffel4:12
Carol, I'll guarantee you I wasn't until I wasn't. And when I wasn't, it created an animal monster because I've been in love with it ever since.
Roger Sheffel6:58
And I still right now, if you can see my arms are full of goosebumps and the hair standed straight up.
Roger Sheffel15:29
Speakers

Host

Carol Hughes

Guest

Roger Sheffel
Topics Discussed
paranormal investigation95%orb phenomena92%haunted mansion90%apparitions88%spirit communication85%historical preservation80%haunted locations in illinois75%ghost hunting equipment70%
People & Brands

Cheney Mansion

place

22xPositive

PD Cheney

person

18xNeutral

Roger Sheffel

person

15xPositive

Judge Darcy

person

10xPositive

Jerseyville

place

6xNeutral

Edward Darcy

person

6xPositive

Alton Illinois

place

5xNeutral

Ron

person

4xPositive

Mineral Springs Hotel

place

2xNeutral

McPike Mansion

place

2xPositive

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