Waynesville, "The Most Haunted Town in Ohio"

Well it is that time again, fall is here and nothing quite captures the spirit of the season quite like, well, spirits. (The ethereal kind, though the liquid certainly helps to warm you up to the subject too.) A little cider or ale or some cocoa as the nights turn cooler, a fire and some spooky tales shared with friends after the sun has set is a popular tradition for this season. And let me assure you, here in Waynesville, we have plenty of tales to tell.

Our town is known as the "Most Haunted Town in Ohio" thanks to the Haunted Ohio Books and for good reason. Our shop alone is well known for three different permanent inhabitants: Louisa Stetson, her brother the hatmaker John and a school teacher named Lilla. In fact there is even a picture of one of our co-inhabitants online: http://www.ohioexploration.com/orphanFrame.htm?http://www.ohioexploration.com/stories.htm This was taken a number of years ago.

While we personally haven't had too many stories to tell (this might have something to do with me and mom saying over and over "Please don't let me see anything, Please don't pop out at me!" Though we have had some little things happen like lights coming on or off and hearing sounds like someone browsing in the back room. However, there are many others who have had experiences and a great way to hear about them, as well as the stories of many of our other ghosts is on the "Ghostly History Walking Tours" offered by the Museum at the Friends Home. There are two tours. There is a tour of the historic downtown and then there is a tour also of the National Register's Quaker Hill Area, which I believe includes the museum.

Starting a couple of years ago, you can also now start the tour with dinner at the historic and haunted Hammel House restaurant. (I can attest both to the ghosts and the delectably yummy foods there.) Tours are offered Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings in October, except for the week of the Sauerkraut Festival starting around 7:30. You can also schedule tours for groups of 10 or more April through November. You can get more information and make reservations by calling the MFH at 1-513-897-1607 or by visiting their website at www.friendshomemuseum.com All of the proceeds go to a good cause supporting the museum of local Quaker history.

We went as a family a few years back (unfortunately before the dinners were added) with some family friends and it was a blast. I also believe that an effort is being made to make this friendlier to children too, but it might be a good idea to inquire about suggested ages because some children are more sensitive to nightmares than others.

Stop by and have some spooky fun!
Kerry