In 1770, residents of Canton, MA, were terrorized by a ghostly wailing that emanated from deep within the forest of an area then known as Packeen. Many townsfolk heard the otherworldly voice and were at a loss as to what to do. They eventually turned to the local deacon in hopes that he could banish the terrifying Packeen ghost.
Independence Hall in Philadelphia, PA, is one of the most important sites in US history. It was here that the founders of the nation debated and signed the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. Thus, Independence Hall and the city of Philadelphia itself are often referred to as the birthplace of the United States. Given the site’s age and prominence, I began to wonder if there were any ghost stories.
Opened in 1927, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre is one of Hollywood’s most iconic landmarks. Since its very beginning, it has played host to major movie premiers. Its forecourt is famously paved with concrete tiles featuring the handprints, footprints, and signatures of celebrities. Besides moviegoers and stars, could there be some ghosts wandering the aisles?
The Mark Twain House in Hartford, CT, was home to the iconic author and his family from 1874 to 1891. It was here that Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain’s real name) wrote some of his most recognized works, such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. The building is now part of the Mark Twain House & Museum, and visitors are able to walk through the rooms and a get glimpse into the life of the Clemens family. It’s also possible that some of these former residents never really left. There have been various reports of paranormal experiences inside this historic home.
Many legends can be found within the formidable walls of the Tower of London. Given the castle’s long and sometimes bloody history, it’s certainly no surprise. The prophetic ravens that live at the Tower are well known to the public, and ghost stories are certainly to be expected. However, while I was walking the ramparts there, I came across a piece of history that I found particularly interesting. An extremely intricate design of mystical nature was carved into the wall of one of the tower rooms. This centuries-old graffiti was the work of a prisoner once held there. What was the accusation against him? Sorcery.
On the banks of the River Avon in the English Midlands sits Warwick Castle. This medieval fortress towers over the landscape and inspires the imagination. As you walk through its halls, you’ll find yourself immersed in history and heritage. Many inhabitants have come and gone over the centuries, but perhaps the spirits of some can still be found within the castle walls. Continue reading →
In the town of Ipswich, MA, a grand mansion sits perched upon a high hill overlooking the ocean. The house, along with its striking grounds, provides a window into an opulent past. Though the house was donated for historic preservation in 1949, some feel that the last resident still has a ghostly presence there. Continue reading →
In the town of Dedham, MA there is a historic house of great distinction – it is, in fact, the oldest wood frame house in North America. Built between 1637 and 1641, the Fairbanks House provides an amazing view into history. Although the last resident moved out over 100 years ago, some spirits may still call it home. Continue reading →
On the Massachusetts coast, in the town of Gloucester, sits a building that appears to be, quite simply, on the wrong continent. It’s as if a medieval castle were plucked out of the Old World and dropped in the New World. The creation of a wealthy and eccentric inventor, Hammond Castle Museum is filled with antiques, ancient artifacts, and (as far as some are concerned) ghosts. Continue reading →
