When it comes to Halloween, some places just seem to have an uncanny connection to the otherworldly, and The Shires in Southwestern Vermont is one such locale. Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountain State, this picturesque region is known for its stunning natural beauty, quaint towns, and, interestingly, a wealth of eerie tales that send shivers down the spine. Let’s delve into the fascinating mix of Halloween, paranormal activity, the infamous Bennington Triangle, Shirley Jackson's haunting influence, and more.
The Bennington Triangle: A Spooky Mystery
For decades, The Shires have been associated with a mysterious and eerie phenomenon known as the Bennington Triangle. This triangular area encompasses Glastenbury Mountain, Bennington, and Somerset, and it has garnered a reputation for the inexplicable disappearances of several people, including hikers, between the 1940s and 1950s. These unsolved cases have left a lingering sense of foreboding in the region, and the mysteries of the Triangle often resurface around Halloween.
Shirley Jackson's Influence
Shirley Jackson, a renowned author of the horror and supernatural genres, was a Bennington College alumna. Her experiences in this region significantly influenced her work, and her most famous creation, "The Haunting of Hill House," still sends chills down readers' spines. Jackson's literary presence in The Shires adds a unique layer of spookiness to the area, making it an ideal backdrop for Halloween tales.
Haunted Hotspots
The Shires is rife with rumored haunted spots. For instance, the haunted house on Silk Road in Bennington is a local legend. According to some, mysterious footsteps and eerie whispers have been reported within its walls, making it a must-visit location for those seeking a Halloween thrill.
In Rupert, tales of spectral figures and ghostly apparitions have been passed down through generations, creating an eerie atmosphere that's perfect for Halloween enthusiasts. In Peru, the old mining town is said to be haunted by the spirits of miners who lost their lives in the mines, their ghostly presence more noticeable when the autumn winds whisper through the mountains.
Arlington's legendary cemetery, dating back to the Revolutionary War, is rumored to be home to ghostly soldiers wandering its hallowed grounds. Shaftsbury, too, has its share of haunted houses, where you might just hear mysterious footsteps and unexplained sounds.
Witchcraft and Folklore
Vermont has a rich history of witchcraft and folklore, with many tales of witches and supernatural occurrences. Local legends and stories of witches and their cauldrons can add an extra layer of spookiness to your Halloween explorations in The Shires.
A Halloween to Remember
Perhaps most notable, The Shires are best known for a wide-range of Trick-Or-Treat, family friendly activities and gatherings. So, if you're looking for a spooktacular adventure this October, look no further than this enigmatic and haunted corner of New England. Whether you're in Manchester, Rupert, Peru, Arlington, Shaftsbury, Searsburg, or Glastenbury, the spirit of Halloween and the supernatural are sure to find you.
Check out various spooky events in The Shires this Halloween!
