Things That Go Bump in the Night

Of course, there are lots of “frightening” family-oriented local  events surrounding Halloween — from a Haunted Gazebo on Templeton Common to a trick-or-treat afternoon in downtown Gardner and Moo-Moo’s Halloween party at Davis Farmland in Sterling. But the less faint of heart may want to plan a trip to Winchendon this year.

The Winchendon History and Cultural Center is serving up a handful of ghost hunting evenings at its two historic buildings.  September 29, October 27 and December 29 are “Paranormal Novice Nights”, complete with ghost stories, a history of the Murdock-Whitney and Isaac Morse houses, and an opportunity to seek out any resident spirits. No equipment or experience needed — the historical society will supply everything you need. There is a $30 admission charge for this spooky fund-raising event.

On November 17, the society opens its (creaky?) doors to modern “ghost busters” — hosting a “Paranormal Pro Night” ghost hunt, inviting visitors to bring their own equipment to search for evidence of the unexplained. Admission for the  Pro Night is $60, and entrance is capped at 15 to provide plenty of elbow room for investigation in the two homes.

A bit of background on these magnificent Historical Society houses: Five generations occupied the Murdock-Whitney House. Elisha Murdock, founder of E. Murdock Co. (later known as New England Wooden Ware) built the original house in about 1850. It was home to his wife, Rohanna (Morse) and their three children: Ellen, Sophia, and son George who died at age seven.

The Isaac Morse House, a Georgian
Colonial with 10 rooms and five fireplaces, was built circa 1790 by Robert Ruggles, an architect and builder.

Visit winchendonhistory.org to learn more and to register for a ghost hunt.