Who founded Irongate?

Irongate was founded by Eric Testerman, a United States Air Force veteran, husband, father, and lifelong paranormal enthusiast. The collection began as a personal effort to preserve objects connected to reported paranormal experiences. Over time, that effort developed into a structured archive focused on documenting the histories of these artifacts and presenting them in a controlled and respectful environment. Unlike traditional museums or storage collections, the artifacts housed within Irongate exist within the home itself. They are not hidden away in vaults or forgotten in boxes. Instead, they remain part of the space they now inhabit — objects with histories that continue to be acknowledged and respected. For those who believe that attachments may accompany certain artifacts, the presence associated with them has simply become part of the environment of the Irongate home. Over time, these stories and experiences have become part of the fabric that makes Irongate not just a collection, but a home. Today, Irongate continues to grow as a private archive dedicated to preserving unusual artifacts and the histories connected to them, offering others the opportunity to encounter them thoughtfully and respectfully.

How do you know the spirits associated with the artifacts are good?

Irongate does not assume that any presence associated with an artifact is either good or harmful. Objects in the collection are preserved because of their histories and reported experiences, not because a specific conclusion has been reached about them. Before bringing an item into the archive, a thorough discussion is held with the seller or prior owner regarding the object’s history and any associated experiences. These conversations help document the artifact’s background and provide context for its place within the collection. Artifacts are handled with clear boundaries and respect. If an item is brought into the collection and unsettling incidents occur within the home environment, the object is removed and responsibly rehomed. Visitors are encouraged to approach the collection thoughtfully and form their own interpretations of what they may or may not experience.

What got you started?

Irongate began with a personal interest in objects connected to unexplained experiences. Over time, that curiosity developed into a focused effort to preserve artifacts that might otherwise be discarded or forgotten. Many items associated with reported paranormal activity are quietly removed from homes, stored away, or destroyed. Irongate exists to provide a place where those objects — and the stories connected to them — can be documented, preserved, and occasionally studied within a controlled environment.

Can visitors touch the artifacts?

In most cases, artifacts from the Irongate archive are not handled directly by visitors. Maintaining the objects' condition and respecting the boundaries around them are important to preserving the collection. During structured experiences or investigations, artifacts may be presented in ways that allow observation while maintaining established handling protocols.

Does Irongate guarantee paranormal activity?

No. Irongate does not promise paranormal activity or specific experiences. Some visitors report feeling nothing unusual at all. Others describe subtle impressions or unexplained observations. Experiences vary widely and are often influenced by environment, expectation, and individual perception. The purpose of the Irongate collection is not to prove the paranormal, but to preserve objects with unusual histories and provide opportunities for thoughtful observation.

If you have additional questions about Irongate or the collection, we welcome you to reach out through the [Contact Us] page.