Ritual Dagger in Worcester

Ritual Dagger in Worcester

Some time ago, as I was wandering through the Worcester Art Museum (WAM) in Worcester, MA, I came upon a gallery containing various antique weapons and armor. Clearly, these were some of the items from the museum’s Higgins Armory Collection. Towards the back of the room was a large display case with some drawers in its lower section. As I was examining their contents, I came across something unexpected. As I opened one of the drawers, I saw a small, carved face staring out. It was part of a rather elaborate bladed weapon. It turns out this collection contains a Tibetan ritual dagger. Continue reading →

Posted by AP Sylvia in Massachusetts, Spiritual, 0 comments
The Spirits of Warwick Castle

The Spirits of Warwick Castle

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 →

Posted by AP Sylvia in England, Ghosts, 0 comments
A Ghost at Castle Hill

A Ghost at Castle Hill

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 →

Posted by AP Sylvia in Ghosts, Massachusetts, 0 comments
The Westford Knight

The Westford Knight

While a medieval stone etching of a knight is certainly not something out of the ordinary in Europe, finding one in New England is much more surprising. However, that is exactly what has been asserted about a mysterious carving in the town of Westford, MA. Could it be evidence of a Templar expedition to the New World? Continue reading →

Posted by AP Sylvia in Hidden History, Massachusetts, 0 comments
Krampus in Witch City

Krampus in Witch City

On the longest night of the year, the start of Yule, I enjoyed a unique tour of historic downtown Salem, Massachusetts. My guide had horns upon his head and carried a menacing bundle of sticks. Yes, I followed behind none other than Krampus, the devilish December visitor of Germanic folklore known for terrorizing naughty children. Continue reading →

Posted by AP Sylvia in Massachusetts, Mysterious, 0 comments
The Abandoned Metropolitan State Hospital

The Abandoned Metropolitan State Hospital

In the town of Waltham, MA, there is derelict structure that stands among greenery and walking paths. Its slowly decaying form oddly juxtaposed with the surrounding parkland. This is the last remaining untouched building of a former insane asylum complex. Continue reading →

Posted by AP Sylvia in Massachusetts, Mysterious, 0 comments
Chicago’s Lost Cemetery and the Vampire Hunt

Chicago’s Lost Cemetery and the Vampire Hunt

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 →

Posted by AP Sylvia in Illinois, Vampires, 1 comment
The British Museum’s Crystal Skull

The British Museum’s Crystal Skull

Crystal skulls have been the subject of curiosity and debate for decades. Are they ancient artifacts, modern hoaxes, or maybe even mystical conduits? A few of these enigmatic objects are held by major museums, while others are in private collections. During a visit to the British Museum in London, I made it a point to view the skull they have on display. Whatever its origins, it’s certainly striking. Continue reading →

Posted by AP Sylvia in England, Hidden History, 0 comments
London’s Highgate Cemetery

London’s Highgate Cemetery

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 →

Posted by AP Sylvia in England, Vampires, 0 comments
The Unexpected Vampire Case of Nellie Vaughn

The Unexpected Vampire Case of Nellie Vaughn

In a rural cemetery by an old wooden church lies the 19th century grave of a supposed vampire. Various paranormal stories have circulated about this site and it has generated some public interest for a number of years. However, any vampire lore surrounding the deceased may simply be a 20th century case of mistaken identity! Continue reading →

Posted by AP Sylvia in Rhode Island, Vampires, 2 comments