Ed and Lorraine Warren founded the New England Society for Psychic Research in 1952 and investigated over 10,000 cases across five decades. Their most famous cases — Amityville, Annabelle, and the Perron family haunting — formed the basis of the Conjuring film universe.
Ed Warren (1926–2006) was a self-taught demonologist and the only non-clergy member recognised by the Catholic Church as a demonologist. Lorraine Warren (1927–2019) claimed clairvoyant and mediumistic abilities from childhood. Together they built a private museum of haunted artefacts at their Monroe, Connecticut home — the Occult Museum — which remains a site of controversy and fascination.
Founded the New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR) — one of the oldest paranormal research organisations in the US
Begin investigation of the Perron family farmhouse in Harrisville, Rhode Island — later dramatised as The Conjuring
Investigate the Amityville Horror house following the Lutz family's claims; Ed Warren films the now-famous "Demonic Boy" photograph
Secured the Annabelle doll from two nurses in Middlefield, Connecticut; placed in locked display case in Occult Museum
The Smurl haunting investigation in West Pittston, Pennsylvania draws major media coverage
Ed Warren dies aged 79; Lorraine continues investigations with nephew John Zaffis
The Conjuring released, reigniting global interest in their case files
Lorraine Warren dies aged 92; their case archives pass to Tony Spera
Widely regarded as the most influential paranormal investigators of the 20th century. Their case files remain heavily debated — supporters cite the volume and consistency of witness testimony; critics note a lack of reproducible physical evidence and financial motivations.
Editorial note: All profiles are compiled from public record, testimony, and published sources. Unverified claims are noted. Project Strange does not assert the truth or falsity of any individual's claims.