3 Things You’ll Find on Charlottesville’s 20th Annual Spirit Walk
With October being the month of Halloween, it is a time to delve into everything spooky and otherworldly. Oftentimes, the supernatural is directly linked to history, so what better way is there to commemorate the season than with a local Spirit Walk?
The Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society is presenting their 20th Annual Spirit Walk on October 24-26, 2014: “As the air begins to cool and the trees shed their leaves, the spirits of former citizens of Charlottesville and Albemarle County gather one last time before consigning themselves to the earth for the long, cold winter… Come learn their stories as they are vividly brought to life before you.”
So, what all will your Spirit Walk include? Here are 3 things:
- A tour of the historic Oakwood Cemetery. Opened in the 1860s, Oakwood Cemetery is one of the oldest public cemeteries in Charlottesville. It is a fascinating look into the history of the area with everything from signs of segregation to a “Potter’s Field,” where the poor were buried. On Friday, October 24, and Sunday, October 26, you’ll have the chance to explore this cemetery for yourself.
- A tour of Charlottesville’s historic Court Square. “This building in continuous use as a courthouse for over 200 years is one of America’s most historic. No other courthouse has been used by 3 early American Presidents at the same time.” Don’t miss this Saturday tour (complete with hot cider from Whole Foods Market)!
- Stories of historic figures. On Saturday, experience the “courtroom trial of Stuart Bailey,” who allegedly murdered City Treasurer John Walters (who also happened to be his brother-in-law). Meet historic figures like Nancy Langhorne Shaw Astor, an Albemarle County resident who became the first woman to hold a seat in the British House of Commons.
Click here to purchase your Spirit Walk tickets, and don’t forget to reserve your room at Afton Mountain.
By the way, while we've heard a handful of rumors about ghosts or spirits in our old house, in our twelve plus years of living here, we have yet to encounter anything other-worldly. But maybe you'll just have to come see for yourself!
