Did you know that the demand for cadavers to teach anatomy in the early 19th century far exceeded the legal supply, leading to the rise of “resurrectionists” — professional body snatchers who stole freshly buried corpses to sell to medical schools?
The history of body snatching is one of the eerie things you can learn at Spooky All Hallows’ Eve at Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene from 6 to 9 p.m. this Friday and Saturday (October 24 and 25).
But it’s not all macabre facts at Spooky All Hallows’ Eve, with a wide range of fun activities available for the entire family.
Take a tractor and wagon ride or wander the village, where you’ll learn about the different origins of trick-or-treating and learn a rhyme for “soul-caking.” Watch out for the man-eating plant from Madagascar at the Fitzpatrick House, discover the history of coffins and body snatching at the Carpenter Shop, and stop by the Tinsmith Shop to feel what is lurking in the mystery crocks.
Participate in a class on poisons and potions in the School House, try a treat from the Botched Bakery, and listen to sea shanties and pirate jokes in the Cider Barn — if you can find all the items on their treasure map, you just might receive a piece of treasure for yourself.
Witness a traditional 1890s Halloween party and participate in some party games, meet Stingy Jack (played by Glen Caradus) who will tell you his sorry tale, take a stroll through the graveyard, hear about the story of werewolves, visit the witch’s lair to find out your witch’s name while swamp water bubbles in the cauldron over the fire, and find out what your future holds from Madam Fortune.
Learn about paranormal investigations undertaken at Lang Pioneer Village Museum by Paranormal Seekers ghost hunters and see some of the specialized equipment they use to make their “discoveries.” While Halloween is a settler custom, you can also learn about Indigenous traditions at Aabnaabin Camp, including the Michi Saagig people’s tale of the malevolent spirit Wendigo.
Take a trip to the stars on a magic carpet ride, visit the fairies at their lodge, try some hula hooping in the Agricultural Barn, and make sure not to get lost if you are brave enough to enter the maze. You can also warm up by the fire and learn about Samhain, a Celtic fire festival.
Watch the mind-bending magic show in the Weaver Shop, with performances at 6:30, 7:30, and 8:30 p.m., but plan ahead as seating is limited. You can also witness a séance and a witch dance, learn about witch broom craft, meet the snake oil salesman, and watch performances by the Peterborough Scottish Country Dancers.
Stop by the Keene Hotel for some hot chocolate and sweet treats or visit the Bewdley Lions Club food truck for some BBQ goods (cash only). Ben’s Kettle Corn will be on-site popping up fresh kettle corn, and you can purchase candy and sweet treats in the General Store.
Come disguised to blend in with the spirits and ghosts lurking in the village, or have your face painted in the Great Hall by Faces by 2. Children will receive treat bags at the end of the evening to enjoy on their way home.
While some of the origin stories of Halloween customs during this historical tour can be dark, Spooky All Hallows’ Eve is not a frightful experience and is suitable for the entire family.
Admission is $17 for adults, $12 for students and seniors 60 and older, $9 for children and youth aged two to 14, and free for children under two. Family admission is also available for $44 (for two adults and up to four youth ages two to 14). You can purchase tickets in advance, but advance tickets are not required. On-site parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
