by Cassie Romero
As of September 22nd, we have officially made it to my absolute favorite season: autumn! I may be severely biased in saying that autumn is hands down the best time of year due to my birthday happening during the season, but we also have Halloween and Thanksgiving in there as well. A holiday for dressing up and going around for candy, and one for spending time with family and eating way too much? Sign me up every single time! I can’t help but find myself excited as I drive into town for work and see all of the foliage beginning its transition from vibrant greens to the beautiful reds and oranges that come with autumn.
Every time autumn comes around, I find myself in deep yearning for a Gilmore Girls Fall, where I check out too many cozy and spooky themed books from the library, enjoy far too many pumpkin rolls, and finally get out my army of plaid shirts and cozy sweaters. If someone can figure out a combination that is better than a good book, comfy sweater, and a hot apple cider drink while sitting on a couch, I still wouldn’t believe you. Unless it pertains to an adventure into Gettysburg for a ghost tour or hunt, or any other type of spirit-related or supernatural event, then I may be more amenable.
Having lived near enough to Gettysburg, I’m no stranger to the allure of the ghostly history behind the area. I even spent a few years during college working as a tour guide, though I had no ghostly encounters myself. I was, however, asked an important historical question: Did dinosaurs exist during the Civil War? For those of you who might not know, dinosaurs were not around during the Civil War, which is a bit of a bummer when I think about it. I’d love to have a photo in the history books where Abraham Lincoln rode into Gettysburg to give his famous address on a Stegosaurus.
Of course, Gettysburg isn’t the only place that has a storied history of ghosts and battles. Many in Adams County and other areas can attest to strange happenings and deep history that goes back centuries. When I think about the reasons I decided to pursue history while in college, a large part of it is due to where I grew up. The local history and folklore of the area will always hold my interest, because the accounts come from such varied places. To be able to visit local landmarks, to read up on the events, or attend library lectures and discussions on them is something I think everyone should find time for.
Here in East Berlin, I am excited for a couple of events we have lined up for this month. We have a local psychic medium coming in to share her experiences in the field for those who are more into the spirits side of the season. In the same vein of spirits, Author Dr. Stephen Holoviak will be back to discuss a novel set locally in East Berlin and the surrounding area! Perfect events for those who are interested in the paranormal.
Be sure to check out all of the fun happening at our libraries this autumn by checking out our web calendar!
Cassie Romero isTeen Services Specialist at the Jean Barnett Trone Memorial Library of East Berlin.
The Adams County Library System is participating in the 15th annual Adams County Community Foundation Giving Spree on November 6th and is number 15 in the donor guide. For more information on how you can make an impact in Adams County, visit: ACCFGivingSpree.org