I’ve talked a bit about vampire killing kits before on this blog. These enigmatic objects are the subjects of debate, and encountering one many years ago led me down the path of writing my book, Vampires of Lore. This time, I’d like to share a picture of one that can be found in Orlando, Florida.
While visiting New Orleans, there were two vampire-themed establishments that were on my “must see” list. One was a restaurant known as the New Orleans Vampire Café. The other was a shop called the Boutique du Vampyre. Located right near each other in the French Quarter, they’re a great way to add some vampiric flare to your time in the Crescent City.
In New Orleans’ French Quarter, there is a stately home that is often a stop on walking tours. According to local legend, this house was once the residence of an immortal vampire. In the early 20th century, this charismatic figure entertained high society while surreptitiously feeding on the city’s citizens. Some say he was the famed Count of St. Germain, who had charmed the courts of Europe in centuries past.
In the French Quarter of New Orleans sits the Old Ursuline Convent. It is a stately building that is centuries old and rich in history. Interestingly, a vampire legend has become attached to this place. Some say that, during the colonial period, the convent became home (or perhaps a prison) to a group of vampires known as the Casket Girls.
I often mention the vampire killing kit in New York City that inspired me to start seriously researching vampire folklore. Last October, to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the release of my book, I shared some pictures of that enigmatic object. This year, I thought it would be fitting to share images of another kit I’ve seen. This one is on the opposite side of the continent in another iconic locale – Hollywood, California!
In North Smithfield, RI, you’ll find a historic cemetery that contains a 19th century tombstone with a very distinct epitaph. The inscription includes some partially obscured lines at the bottom, one of which references “consumption’s vampire grasp.” Because of this captivating phrase, the grave of Simon Whipple Aldrich has entered the annals of New England vampire lore.
It’s hard to overstate Bram Stoker’s influence on the modern, fictional vampire. His groundbreaking 1897 novel, Dracula, has been adapted in various ways for film and television over the years, and this popularity has helped shape the expectations people have about the undead. While exploring the origins of modern vampire traits for my book, I found my way back to Bram Stoker a number of times. So, when I had the opportunity to see some of his handwritten notes in person, I couldn’t pass that up.
It was October of last year that my book, Vampires of Lore: Traits and Modern Misconceptions, was released. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of discussing vampire folklore on a variety of radio shows and podcasts. In those interviews, I sometimes discuss how I got started on the path of studying vampires. My inspiration came during a trip to New York City, when I saw a vampire killing kit on display! To commemorate the one-year anniversary of the release of my book, I wanted to share a picture of this mysterious object taken on that fateful day. Continue reading →
When thinking about public parks, certain standard features come to mind: green space, walkways, benches, and perhaps even some commemorative statues. In Chicago’s Lincoln Park, you’ll certainly find all this, but there’s something else that seems a little out-of-place. On the grounds sits a lone mausoleum, dating back to the mid-19th century. Stranger still is one particular incident that occurred in this park … a vampire hunt! Continue reading →
In North London you’ll find a cemetery with a powerful atmosphere and striking architecture. There are Egyptian style tombs, a Gothic style chapel, and winding paths that allow for quiet reflection. Strolling among the Victorian stonework is reason enough to visit, but this place also is noteworthy for something else – it holds an interesting place in vampire lore. Continue reading →
