Quite a few years ago, I listed for sale a very old home. It was stately but in poor condition and vacant. It was also slightly crooked and could make you dizzy just walking through it. Most of the original characteristics were still intact including woodwork, hardware and charm. We had lots of interest in the property, but no one wanted to tackle the rehab needed. The basement was the BEST part, as the foundation was original, had a dirt floor, and a huge non-functioning coal furnace. One light bulb illuminated the cavernous space and Halloween props were stored down there, which almost scared me to death the first time I turned on the light! The attic was another area of interest, as it housed the stagecoach drivers and horsemen when the place served as a stagecoach inn. The original banisters were there, along with a very tight staircase and rough-sawn oak floorboards. The original slate roof could be seen from the attic along with oak trusses pinned together with oak pegs. Much of the bark was still attached. Evidence of a fire or at least smoke damage was present from a chimney fire long ago, even though the chimney seemed to be intact. There were still wooden storage boxes and leather harness pieces stored up there.
A “paranormal” group called saying they were interested in the property, but only if they could ascertain there were ghosts haunting it. COOL! I’m in! This home is in a part of the county where many of my ancestors lived and died, so I wanted to be in on the ghost hunt. I figured if anyone could coax them out of the cracks and crevices, it might be me! We set up the tour one October evening after dark. I told the sellers about the potential buyers and asked them to vouch for us if any neighbors called the cops complaining about a bunch of people touring the property after dark. I was SO excited! I brought cider and donuts, paper plates and cups. About twelve people showed up with flashlights, voice recorders, special cameras and even a psychic looking for ghosts. I was introduced to everyone in hushed, quiet tones. This was better than a Hollywood movie set! I followed them around, mumbling under my breath introducing myself to all the potential ghosts who may be listening, saying things like “I’m so & so’s granddaughter. We were very close! Has she told you about me?” They finally told me to go outside and be quiet. Alas, no ghosts showed up that night, and the paranormal group decided not to buy. Darn it! But I KNOW that every time I visited after that, rooms got colder and I could hear soft laughter. It was probably my ancestors saying, “Not this time, little girl, you gotta work for that commission!” Maybe the ghosts were in the attic. I don’t think they checked up there! HAPPY HALLOWEEN everyone!
Published in Louisville Neighbors 10-24
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