Pasadena, known for its historic landmarks, also has a rich tapestry of eerie tales woven into its cultural fabric. David Kalbeitzer, a Disney executive and paranormal investigator, is spotlighting the city’s darker narratives, blending themes of the mystical and the scientific.
Kalbeitzer’s curiosity about Pasadena’s supernatural elements began when he purchased a Victorian home north of Old Town. At an open house twelve years ago, he sensed a spirit, which he interpreted as a sign to move his family to the area. Since then, he has immersed himself in the city’s history, uncovering stories that intertwine the occult and ghostly phenomena.
Tonight, Kalbeitzer will present his findings at Mesmer Mesmer, an Old Town shop and event space. Although the event is sold out, there is a waitlist, and additional presentations by Kalbeitzer are planned.
A City of Ghost Stories
Kalbeitzer notes that Pasadena’s haunted reputation includes various locations, such as alleyways, the Colorado Street Bridge, and the former Castle Green hotel. He described the Pasadena Playhouse theater as a particularly haunted site, where patrons have reported disembodied voices and apparitions that suddenly vanish.
Kalbeitzer revealed that a spirit, whom a psychic identified as Dolores, watches over his home. He stated that this ghost is “very kind” and actively protects his family, even triggering their home alarm system at times. His fascination with the paranormal roots back to his childhood, having grown up in a haunted home in Idaho Falls, and seeking out ghostly locations during his teenage years in Charleston, South Carolina.
Rocket Science, Ritual Magic, and Mind-Reading
In addition to ghost stories, Kalbeitzer highlights Pasadena’s unique connection to oddities, particularly with historical figures like Jack Parsons, a pioneer in rocketry who also practiced ritual magic alongside L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology. He reflects on the blend of spirituality and science in the city, exemplified by figures such as Upton Sinclair. Sinclair, known for his literary work, also engaged with concepts of telepathy and séances, writing about such interests in his 1930 book, Mental Radio, which included a preface by Albert Einstein.
Kalbeitzer described this convergence of ideas as a “crazy mixture” of influences that defined the city’s cultural landscape during that era.
A Presence in the Shop
Mesmer Mesmer, which opened five months ago, focuses on the mystical, offering tarot and crystal readings and hosting various esoteric events. Owner Tyke O’Brien recounted an encounter with a medium who sensed a presence in the shop’s previous bridal store location. O’Brien admitted that he wished he could share in such experiences.
While Kalbeitzer encounters supernatural stories throughout Pasadena, he notes that one’s perception often shapes their experiences. He encourages those interested in the unknown to embrace their curiosity, as he continues to unravel the ghostly tales that surround Pasadena.
Tonight’s event at Mesmer Mesmer begins at 7 p.m. and will discuss the city’s enigmatic past.
