October is here and especially in New England, that means the Halloween season is in full swing. While the pumpkin patches and autumn leaves are bright and cheerful, the cool breeze brings to mind the chill of spirits and ghost stories. Being an area with a history dating back as far as pre-Colonial settlements, it is no surprise that the Greater Merrimack Valley has some spooky sights and stories of its own. So gather your courage and discover some of the mysterious and haunting places of the Greater Merrimack Valley.
The Old Burying Ground
The oldest gravesite in Lexington, MA, the Old Burying Ground has gravestones dating back to 1690. The cemetery contains the graves of early Lexington settlers, as well as soldiers from the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Most famously, it’s the final resting place of Captain John Parker, as well as a British soldier who was injured in the fighting on the Battle Green and died a few days later in Buckman Tavern.
In October, check the community calendar of events for candlelit walking tours where you can meet the spirits and hear their stories. It’s a chilling way to spend an evening as you wander the winding paths of the graveyard.
The Worthen House Cafe
The Worthen House Cafe in Lowell, MA has a long and storied history intriguing to anyone looking for some spooky experiences. The oldest historical bar and tavern in America, it was established in 1898 and has been beloved by locals and visitors alike for over a century. One of its most notable patrons was famed author and poet Edgar Allan Poe. He was known to visit and even stay at the tavern during his travels throughout New England. In fact, local legend says that he penned part of his most famous and haunting poem, “The Raven,” while staying in one of the rooms on the second floor.
Beyond being a favorite of a horror writer, the Worthen House Cafe is also known for spirits both paranormal and alcoholic. During Prohibition, alcohol was hidden in false wall panels that guests can still see today upon request. Meanwhile, there are whispers of a ghost that haunts the upper floors of the tavern. The bar staff have affectionately named him “Matthew” and treat him as kindly as they do anyone else who calls the Worthen House Cafe their favorite haunt.
Concord’s Colonial Inn
Room 24 in the Historic Main House of Concord’s Colonial Inn in Concord, MA has a reputation of being haunted. It was the operating room for Dr. Timothy Minot in the late 1700s for wounded soldiers during the Revolutionary War. Even today some guests report strange sensations, flickering lights, and mysteriously closing doors. Sights of spirits aren’t just limited to Room 24, however; some employees and guests have even spotted apparitions in the Inn’s sitting room, while others roam the halls. As the Inn was built back in 1716, it’s no surprise that there might be ghostly guests that have been enjoying an extended stay.
Because of its age and history, Concord’s Colonial Inn frequently makes it onto lists of the most haunted hotels in America. It’s also been featured on various paranormal and ghost-hunting shows. However, the potential of ghostly roommates doesn’t deter many from staying at this historic property, or even requesting Room 24. In fact, for many, that’s part of its appeal.
This October, come to the Greater Merrimack Valley to experience spooky fun and ghostly experiences. It’s an excellent way to celebrate Halloween while learning about the area’s history.
