Carol Fisher-Linn
Scary things everywhere; remember that ‘70’s song, “I don’t like spiders and snakes…?”
We had a spider hanging around on the dining room ceiling for weeks. I do not have arachnophobia, a phobia of spiders and other arachnids, so I loved watching it. When they appear in what I consider a harmless location, I leave them be. In fact, back in the days when I had a home on Martha Street with the old wooden pop-in screens, my bedroom lacked the screen. A window was above my bed. One year, a very large spider decided to help me and built a spider web screen on the entire window. This provided Ms. Spider with an ample supply of nourishment throughout the summer and kept my bedroom insect free. It was a symbiotic relationship which ended when I had to close the window for the cooler weather.
Yet, these relatively benign creatures have become one of the symbols of Halloween because of their purported connection with witches. Back in medieval times, spiders, black cats, and rats were believed to be evil companions for the witches.
In folklore, spiders are described as storytellers and oracles of fate, wealth, and sometimes death, but remember, I use the word “folklore.” Here are a few: Most spiders (except tarantulas) are omens of good luck. The bigger the spider – the greater the luck. I get my tolerance for these creatures from my Polish grandfather who always said that spiders in the house indicate a happy home. Now, back to the one above my bed. Legend has it, that if it a white spider above your bed it is good luck. A black one, not so much. Here’s another: If you have a fire lamp or candle and a spider falls in and gets burnt to a crisp, a witch is nearby. In researching old world cures, I came across this one which I would be hesitant to try – a spider in syrup will cure a fever. I’ll take an aspirin, thank you. Now, despite the common phobia of spiders, it is believed that if you see a spider during Halloween, it means that a loved one is watching over you. Even better, if it jumps into your pocket, you will be the recipient of wealth!!!!
Every community has its own spooky places. Our region is no exception. I used to work at JN Adam Developmental Center in Perrysburg the ‘80’s. One did not even have to get into the building without hearing sounds emanating from the building. Of course, those were generally the cries or moans of the clients who lived there. (Or were they?) I remember the chills that ran up my spine when I heard those sounds the first time I parked my car to go to my new job. What was worse is I worked the night shift which just added more fuel to my imagination. Today, stories abound about people getting into that property now that it is abandoned and falling into disrepair. They still hear the sounds and no one any longer inhabits the buildings. Other haunted places in the area include Wildwood Sanitarium in Salamanca, Allegany River Trail, St. Bonaventure University Francis Hall, Witches Walk at Allegany State Park, and a house at “The Devil’s Elbow” in Hinsdale.
You can get your share of thrills and chills locally during the Ellicottville (6319) Sommerville Valley Road Nightmare Hayrides, said to be the scariest haunted attraction in Western NYS. Hayrides are in full swing until October 27 (Fri. Sat. Sun 7:30-9:30), no reservations needed and (hint) Fridays and Sundays have fewer visitors for this 45-minute adventure; call (716) 699-4839. Even if you don’t know the person sitting next to you, you will likely end up sitting in their lap at the end of this scary ride. Food and seating are available. $30 adults, kiddoes under 5 free.
The Ellicottville Historical Society will be presenting ghost walks around the village of Ellicottville on Friday nights October 18, and October 25, led by Town Historian, Ellen Sirianni Frank. Gather at the Gazebo at 7pm for the walk to commence at 7:30pm. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the two-hour event, carry a flashlight, and be sure your camera is charged in case you want to photograph mystical images or floating orbs at the cemetery. And just wait until you hear the stories about an execution, a shooting, a train accident and our resident ghosts in the Historical museum and local church. They will curl your hair. Enjoy this magical mystical Halloween season! Boo!