Patriots Park Phantoms Tarrytown/Sleepy Hollow, New York

Sleepy Hollow isn't just Headless Horsemen lurking around to scare the locals. They have their share of other ghost stories. Patriots Park located along Route 9 is thought to be haunted by the spirit of a revolutionary spy, and a man believed to be the model for Ichabod Crane. But not to worry another spirit who's thought to haunt the area, avoids the place.

September 24, 1780 Major John Andre is on his way back from an important meeting at West Point with an influential General.  As he was advancing into the village of Tarrytown he was approached by three gentlemen at gunpoint. The men began to question the Major, asking him his whereabouts and his intentions. One of the gentlemen was adorned in a Hessian coat. Major Andre believed the men were there to help escort him through New York. When informed he was mistaken, the men subsequently searched the Major. They found on him a pass signed by General Arnold. They also found letters exchanged between the Major and the General. The Major also held in his possession diagrams for West Point. Quickly the men realized they were now holding captive a British spy.

The men vehemently turned the Major over to the Continental troops who held him captive in nearby Tappan. Major John Andre's plan with General Benedict Arnold began to unfold through military trials. While Benedict Arnold ran off to Britain to acquire General status there, Major Andre was hanged by the order of George Washington. The Major eventually became quite enraged with his homeland as well as the United States. Britain refused offers for Benedict Arnold, which may have saved the Major, while the U.S. refused his request to be killed by firing squad.

Near the town of Sleepy Hollow today stands a monument to Major Andre. It's here that his spirit has been known to disturb late night visitors, even Ichabod Crane. An unnatural spirit has been seen and felt within the presence of the monument. Those passing by on quiet evenings have heard murmurings of a spirit reciting poetry. Strangely the Major himself was a published poet.

 

There's another apparition that's been spotted around the area of Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow, but this one specifically is believed to not haunt the Patriots Park area. General Anthony Wayne was in charge of American forces located along the Hudson. He was also responsible for the hanging of Major Andre. Locals have spotted General Wayne's ghost lurking along the banks of the river, but claim out of respect he avoids Patriots Park.

No matter how many ghost stories Sleepy Hollow may have, they all go back to the Washington Irving fabled phantom. The park is believed to also be frequented by another soul. Samuel Young a local man who lived in the area long ago is believed to visit the area occasionally. As a young man he was a schoolteacher and later became a lawyer, he was also believed to be the model for Ichabod Crane. It was in this area that Ichabod had first encountered the headless phantom that would haunt him until his demise.

...It was at this identical spot that the unfortunate Andre was captured, and under the covert of those chestnuts and vines were the sturdy yeomen concealed who surprised him. This has ever since been considered a haunted stream, and fearful are the feelings of the schoolboy who has to pass it alone after dark.-The Legend of Sleepy Hollow

The Historical Mystique of Radnor, Pennsylvania

In 1684 a group of Pennsylvania citizens approached William Penn about constituting a tract of land for themselves. The 40,000 acres they wished to have would be used for a separate county where only Welsh would be spoken. They received what they asked for, yet refused to set up any governing bodies. Their small Welsh community quickly and quietly faded away. The township of Radnor, located along the main line to Philadelphia, was once originally part of this Welsh tract. Today they still continue to honor their lost legacy through a few odd memorials.

When the I-476 turnpike decided to route through the suburban township of Radnor, the locals vowed to not let it destroy their hometown heritage and charm. They instead used the opportunity to beautify, as opposed to vilify. The township agreed that this was a perfect time to help exemplify the towns mysterious past.

The township had a massive 23 foot high cairn placed on top of a local hilltop, allowing passing vehicles to get a glimpse of a wondrous secret. Large cairns are located throughout most of Wales, many dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze ages. Nearby a extravagant dragon made of stone was constructed along the highway as well.

Though what the municipality decided to do at Unkefer park seems to be the most mystical. A circle of stone monoliths was constructed. These large boulders were unearthed while highway construction was being done. The township wanted to make use of the massive rocks instead of having them hauled away, which may have cost them more. As mystical as these attractions seem they are all part of this towns rich history.

Syracuse, New York Shot Clock Monument

March madness is coming upon us! A time when even those who know nothing about sports have a chance to be the office hero. The annual college basketball tournament definitely generates a buzz around the country. Folks everywhere are filling out several brackets in hopes of picking all the unpredictable upsets that occur every year. All this excitement is certainly more prevalent in college towns, particularly those schools who generally have outstanding basketball programs on a consistent basis. One city that fits this bill perfectly is Syracuse, New York.

The whole city seems to be on hold whenever their beloved Orange are running the floor. The citizens all adorn navy blue and orange apparel. They take their basketball very seriously here. And they should, a former owner of the previous NBA team, the Syracuse Nationals, helped to revolutionize the modern game.

In 1954 the Nationals owner incorporated using a 24 second shot clock during a scrimmage. He used a formula he created based solely on box scores of NBA games. Through the 1950's the league was in general suffering from lack of attendance due to teams acquiring a lead, than continuously passing the ball to run the clock down. The NBA adopted the clock for the 54-55 season resulting in higher average scores and eventually larger attendance.

Today in the Armory Square section of Syracuse a 24 second shot clock is running constantly, as well as a plaque commemorating the clock which would drastically change the game of basketball forever.

 If you have ever visited Syracuse in the winter months when basketball season is in effect, you'll barely see anyone in a city of over half a million. Of course if you find yourself outside during this time, you to will be looking to get back in, at least to get out of the cold!

Zion Hill Cemetery Columbia, Pennsylvania

Hidden under the route 30 overpass in Columbia, Pennsylvania. Tucked away in a small wooded area, some of the weeds and grass overextend the grave sites. Sadly, this lost memorial garden has had better years before it, but it's a place every American should visit and pay tribute.

Resting below the grounds are the remains of dozens of African-Americans including many who perished in the Civil War. Most of these brave men fought on the Union side with the 54th Massachusetts regiment. The valiant men wanted to prove they were equal to the task of fighting for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. One of these heroic men, Stephen Swails would become the first African-American officer in U.S. history. These courageous troops battled Confederate troops that began to invade the bridge spanning the Susquehanna river between Wrightsville, and Columbia, Pennsylvania.

One of the most famous buried here is Robert Loney. Mr Loney was at one time a conductor on the Underground Railroad. He helped escort escaped slaves across the nearby river. Freedom for African-Americans meant a great deal to Robert. His family was one of the first group of freed slaves. His passion for all men's freedom is evident in the way he would risk his own life in order to help others escape a life of captivity. If he were to be captured by those south of the Mason-Dixon line he could be escorted back into slavery. Robert Loney eventually joined the Union troops and fought along side his friends and neighbors in hopes of bringing freedom to all.

The wooden crosses and memorial stones that scatter the area are a constant reminder for us all to remember those who came before us and fought for the freedoms we all have. The grave site is taken care of by local Boy Scout groups, church leaders, paranormal groups, and Park Rangers. All showing devotion to the brave African-American men and women who endured through hardships most of us could never fathom, yet rose up to defend the freedoms of millions for centuries to come.

Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania

The tiny borough of Picture Rocks, Pennsylvania has less than 1,000 residents, but there's a history here that's centuries old. The first European settlers settled here in 1773, though the area was sacred to Native Americans long before we came here.

Originally the Munsee Indians made the community their home. The Muncy creek supplied freshwater and fish, while the nearby rock cliffs provided a great lookout for intruders. The Native Americans found much gratification in telling their story and history through pictographs. For decades the tribe had been carving numerous sacred symbols and animals on the imposing rock walls.

These pictographs had an impression on the original settlers who named the area Picture Rocks. Sadly over many years the pictographs have disappeared. Most lost to the course of Mother nature, but others by the malfeasance of man.

Siren of Loyalsock Creek

Coasting through the calm waters of the Loyalsock creek in Pennsylvania may be more hazardous than it seems. The small tributary of the Susquehanna river is mainly located in Lycoming and Sullivan counties. The creek was a principle means of life for the Native American tribes who once inhabited the area. Though the spirit of one may still be seeking revenge on unsuspecting rafters.

Legend states in the mid 1800's a beautiful young Indian maiden was brutally assaulted and murdered by a gang of settlers navigating the creek. Since then Sweet Cicely has been seeking vengeance. Using her sweet, engaging voice she's been luring unsuspecting victims through treacherous parts of the creek, hoping to lure them to an untimely death.

Thank You!

May was national share a story month. This was mainly instituted for parent's to share stories with their children. Well we at Outta the Way decided to use the opportunity to allow others to share their stories. We would like send a big thank you out to all those who participated.

The SWPA Rural Exploration group shared their adventures at the Fredericktown ferry, as well as a few other local gems. Ghost Hunting Theories shared her experience, being by herself in an abandoned building, but not alone. Our good friend at B.B.Bellezza Green Jewelry shared what she learned at the Pennsylvania Wolf Sanctuary, as well as the fun she had at their annual music and art show. Lastly our friends at ForgottenPA told about their adventures exploring the lost Concrete City. They shared their love of urban exploring as well as the importance of history.

Thanks to all who participated and made sharing month a success. But most importantly thanks to all our friends and followers who have helped to support us in so many ways. We wouldn't have made it this far without everyone's support, for that we say thank you!

History and Mysteries of Lebanon, Pennsylvania

In the upcoming Outta the Way travel zine, we'll discover the history and some mysteries in Lebanon county Pennsylvania. We'll take you on a tour through the historic Cornwall furnace where many men and women worked for a better life, but some may still be lingering around in the after-life.

Next we'll take a look to see if dinosaurs ever roamed through the central Pennsylvania area, and if so where can you find some hidden fossils. Than we'll visit a Jurrasic rock formation that was formed long before the dinosaurs, but shares a striking resemblance to one.

Lastly we'll show you two historic inn's where you may bravely spend the night. One of these places has a unique history of a woman still mourning the loss of a broken heart, even a century after her passing. The other historic inn we visit is located in a small town where not all is as it seems, even the spirits that are still active in this bed and breakfast are not exactly what you perceive.

Lancaster County, Pennsylvania:Ghost Stories

In the October Outta the Way zine we'll take you on a haunting journey through Lancaster county.

We''ll start in the sleepy town of Marietta where spirits have been known to get restless after night falls. You'll learn the history of the "River Witch", grab some spirits with a few spirits, and take a journey into the darkside in a cemetery haunted by phantom dogs.

Next we'll lead you into Lancaster city and visit a few historical spots, each with a ghastly past. One enshrined in glitz and glamour, the other a medieval looking fortress you don't even wanna spend a night in. Than it's off to a city cemetery with local tales of statues coming to life, and spirits roaming the grounds still searching the truth.

Lastly we're off to the railroading town of Strasburg, and a visit to a few homes with more than their share of spine tingling tales. Finally we'll visit the local cemetery and the grave of a mysterious local woman who still has many unanswered questions, even decades after her death.

Hemp's Histroy in Pennsylvania

Since this week is being celebrated as hemp history week. I thought I'd share a little history about this often misunderstood plant. And how it played a role in our nation's birth and an even bigger role to the residents of Pennsylvania.

Hemp is often confused with marijuana. Both are forms of the plant cannabis sativa. But what separates the two is their intoxicating effect. THC is the active ingredient in marijuana which makes it's users intoxicated. Most marijuana contains 10-15 % THC, whereas hemp's THC content is about .01 -.03 %. Essentially rendering it useless as a drug. They are also grown in two completely different ways, and cannot be grown together.

Hemp has been used for 1000's of years. Fibers from hemp have been found in pottery dating back over 7,000 years. For more than a century in the United States folks lit their lamps and clothed themselves with hemp. Our own forefathers were fans of hemp. Both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson cultivated the plant on their farms. Ben Franklin started the first American paper mill which exclusively used hemp. Even the Declaration of Independence was drafted on hemp paper.

In the state of Pennsylvania, particularly the farming communities of York and Lancaster counties hemp was very big business. Due to their proximity to the Susquehanna river these two counties became the epicenter for hemp growing in Pennsylvania. Every township in Lancaster grew hemp, particularly Hempfield Township. Between 1720 and 1870 there were more than 100 mills in Lancaster county that processed hemp fiber. That fiber was used to help cover many Conestoga wagons, which were built in the small town of Conestoga, Pennsylvania.

With a big movement toward becoming more environmentally friendly, many are standing up for the re-legalization of hemp. It offers great alternatives to petroleum, plastic, cotton, and pulp wood. The folks at the Landis Valley Museum are helping to raise awareness. They have several hemp stones placed on their property, and are also in plans to develop an exhibit on the historical uses of hemp in the county. They feel the re-growing of hemp will help also with struggling farmers and boost tourism in the area, and I can't help but to agree with them 100%.

If you're interested in learning more about hemp I recommend the book "The Emperor Wears No Clothes"

Pennsylvania's 9/11 Memorial

September 11, 2001 is a day that will surely not be forgotten by anyone. The events of that day helped unite a country that was tearing itself apart. All communities gathered together and vowed to "Never Forget."

The good folks of Yardley, Pennsylvania had a memorial built so we would all remember. The Garden of Reflection Memorial bears the names of all 2,973 killed on that horrific early autumn day. The memorial incorporates pieces of steel from the twin towers in New York City. It takes you on a journey of tragedy and grief to feelings of hope and peace. The flag that is displayed at the memorial has flown over all three crash sites.

The more interesting fact about this memorial is it's location. It was decided upon after finding a tattered American flag in the brush of an undeveloped park. This worn flag must have been a reminder to the folks of Yardley who vowed to "Never Forget."

Haunted Cashtown Inn Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

The Cashtown Inn

This week, Outta the Way is thrilled to bring you a first-hand experience at the Cashtown Inn from a director of the Documentary Film, "Investigating the Afterlife," Shane Free.

Shane writes:

I shot one night at the Cashtown Inn for my ghost hunting documentary "Investigating the Afterlife." My brother and I stayed in the Robert E. Lee suite on the very top floor. It was a little after midnight when we were shooting with our infrared cameras and recording with digital audio. My brother alerted me when he heard what sounded like a disembodied voice while listening through his headphones. We immediately stopped to review the tape and very faintly you could hear what did sound like a man either inhaling or exhaling, pretty creepy indeed. The rest of the night was fairly uneventful; although when I was reviewing the video footage I saw what looked like a ball of light travel from one side of the screen to the other. Overall, I found the Inn to have a very strange vibe; you could definitely feel the history within its walls.

My documentary is available through purchase or rental on Amazon.

Go Fly a Kite!

Looking for a way to enjoy the warm weather?

The Samuel Lewis Park in Wrightsville, PA (York County) is a great place to visit!
The Samuel Lewis Park sits on 85 acres atop 885 foot high Mount Pisgah and surrounded by trees. It seems fitting that this park is named for a former Secretary of Pennsylvania's Department of Forest and Water.

The once former Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania donated 35 acres to the state in 1954.


The Samuel Lewis Park offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Susquehanna River and the nearby river towns of Columbia and Wrightsville. Go hiking or pack a picnic - the park accomidates both.

Due to its mountain location, it makes a prime location to take the kids kite flying OR for a romantic evening for two stargazing.

Next time you are looking for something to do on a sunny day, you can head to Samuel Lewis Park and go fly a kite!