A team of scientists has made a fascinating discovery in the Gulf of Mexico – a 310-mile coral reef corridor. This incredible find showcases the diverse and rich marine life in the region. However, alongside this natural wonder, a peculiar phenomenon has been occurring along the Gulf of Mexico shoreline. “Witch bottles,” believed to be used to entomb malevolent spirits, have been washing up on the coast, intriguing beachcombers.
Since 2017, eight of these curious artifacts have been found on a 60-mile stretch of beach near Corpus Christi, Texas. Jace Tunnell, a researcher from the Harte Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies, has been monitoring this phenomenon. The most recent bottle, filled with vegetation, was discovered on November 15. The presence of gooseneck barnacles on the green glass indicated that the bottle had been floating for a significant period.
These “witch bottles” are traditionally associated with the United Kingdom, where nearly 200 have been recovered. They were used as a means to ward off evil spells and protect against witches’ malevolent intentions. Today, they are rarely found in the United States, with less than a dozen remnants discovered so far.
The exact origin of these bottles remains a mystery. Some speculate that they may have been made in the Caribbean or South America, as distinct thin yellow vinegar bottles, often with sea turtle bites, have been found onshore. It is unclear whether spell casters intentionally throw these bottles into the ocean or if they are carried by rainwater from inland locations.
Jace Tunnell, who has been collecting the bottles, has chosen to display them on his back fence, as his wife does not allow them inside their home. The bottles can contain various items, such as hair, herbs, local plants, nails, or bodily fluids. Tunnell has noticed that the bottles he has found primarily contain vegetation.
While these witch bottles may hold historical and cultural significance, researchers advise caution when encountering them. Whether you stumble across one on the beach or decide to take it home, it is recommended to leave the stopper corked. This advice is given to both preserve the spirits contained within and to avoid potential biohazards.
The discovery of these witch bottles adds an intriguing layer to the Gulf of Mexico’s coastal mysteries. Alongside other washed-up objects like drones, lifepods, lost ship supplies, and messages in bottles, these bottles captivate the imagination and leave researchers wondering about their origins and purpose.
In conclusion, the appearance of these witch bottles on the Gulf of Mexico shoreline provides a fascinating glimpse into historical practices and folklore. While their exact origins remain uncertain, their presence adds an air of mystery to the region’s coastal treasures.
