Haunted Boston

The Public Gardens and Common represent oneof the oldest public spaces in the United States. Accordingly, this verdant lawn in the center of Boston has quite a history. Public hangings were held here until 1817, and cattle grazed the Commons into the 1830s. In these modern days the grounds are a lovely respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life -- hardly the kind of place one might encounter ghosts -- but ghosts do indeed haunt the paths and benches.

The spirits of two women, seemingly elderly, are often seen, genteel in dress and behavior. They're outfitted in crisp white dresses in the mode of the 1830s, suggesting two devoted companions (sisters, perhaps?) out for a leisurely summer stroll. It's thought that they have once been guests at the nearby Ritz Carlton -- the posh hotel overlooks the Gardens. The women walk together with arms linked, or settle on a bench to watch the world go by. They smile pleasantly at passersby, seemingly oblivious that they themselves are no longer of this world. It's suggested by veteran ghost hunters that, should this refined twosome be encountered, discreet manners and polite behavior ought to be employed -- these happy spirits are not aware that they are dead, and would be most shocked if so informed.

(Blackman, W. Haden. 'The Field Guide to North American Hauntings.' Three Rivers Press, 1998; www.cityofboston.gov)