In this Demon Files episode a dark secret is exposed at the haunted Sallie House when the team discusses the dark evidence that was found in the attic.
Located at 508 North Second Street, Atchison Kansas. The Sallie House’s documented history is largely ordinary, with no recorded tragedies that would typically explain a haunting of such intensity. Built in 1867 for Michael Finney, the home remained associated with the Finney family—living there on and off—until 1947.
Only four deaths are confirmed at the property, all attributed to natural causes:
- M.C. Finney (1872)
- Charles James Kathrens (Kate Finney’s father) (1874)
- Richard Edwin Finney (1874)
- Agnes Finney (1939)
After the Finney family left, the house passed through various owners and renters for decades, with no widely documented reports of demonic or extreme paranormal activity during that time.
The modern haunting narrative began in 1992, when Tony and Debra Pickman rented the home. According to their accounts, the activity started subtly—objects shifting in their child’s room, lights turning on and off, and strange disturbances throughout the house. Eventually, the Pickmans reported encounters with what appeared to be a ghostly young girl.
Over time, Tony Pickman claimed the activity escalated dramatically and became focused on him. He reported being scratched, suffering recurring nightmares, and experiencing what he later described as oppressive, demonic-style harassment. Seeking answers, the Pickmans invited multiple psychics and investigators into the home and later appeared on the television series Sightings.
During one investigation, psychic Peter James concluded that the spirit of a girl named “Sallie” was responsible. He believed she died from acute appendicitis after being treated by Dr. Charles Finney—a claim that became central to the legend surrounding the house. The Pickmans remained in the home for several more years before ultimately moving out.
Tony later stated the alleged demonic influence became so severe that he felt it affected his mental state and pushed him toward violent thoughts, including a moment where he feared he might harm his wife.
Despite the fame of the case today, there were no major earlier records of demonic or violent paranormal claims tied to the home prior to the Pickmans’ experiences.
To learn more about the bloody sweater that was found and the types of dark paranormal activity that is infested in this house check out our article.