BY CHRISTINE LEE
Spooky stories from the city’s past are designed to thrill the public on walking tours throughout October.
The Schuylkill County Historical Society will host its fourth annual “Haunted History Walking Tour of Downtown Pottsville” Oct. 10, 17, 24 and 31.
Three routes will be offered: Guinea Hill, covering the Yuengling family, the Reading Anthracite building on Mahantongo Street and the Lipkin Technology Building on South Second Street; Gallows, which will include stops at the Schuylkill County Prison on Sanderson Street, county courthouse on North Second Street, city hall and the former Greystone restaurant, both on North Centre Street; and the Charles Baber Cemetery on West Market Street.
Executive Director Diana Prosymchak said those attending can expect to learn a lot of history, some of which is macabre, and stories at the different locations. Moreover, she said they will be switched up for this year’s tours.
“It will be an enjoyable evening,” she said.
Prosymchak said both tours of the cemetery are booked, but the society is looking to add a third. Spots are open for the others.
There will be two or three tours per night, some of which will run simultaneously.
Society board member John Walsh will lead those of Guinea Hill. James Haluska Jr., a museum consultant and assistant to the executive director, Board President J. Robert Zane will show groups Baber Cemetery and the Gallows tour will be lead by Steve Young, a society volunteer.
The executive director said the society got a positive response to last year’s tours, so much so that many of those who took part last year have decided to do so again.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, participants are required to wear face masks and groups will be limited to 15 members, compared to 25 last year.
Tours will depart at 6:30 p.m. from the Baber Cemetery entrance, the historical society building on North Centre Street and the John O’Hara statue North Centre Street. Attendees should arrive 15 minutes prior to the departure time, wear comfy shoes and dress for the weather. Prosymchak said they will start outside at the various locations in order to adhere to rules on curbing the spread of the virus.
Tickets are $12 for the public, $10 for historical society members and $7 for children ages 6-13. The public can reserve a tour spot by calling 570-622-7540.
Contact the writer: clee@republicanherald.com; 570-628-6028
