Ghosts in North Norwich?

Claim That They Have Seen Ghosts

Norwich Sun, November 28, 1905

 

In North Part of Village

Rumored that they inhabit the Follett Residence

and Drive Through the Grounds at night

An interview with Mr. Follett Can Not Affirm

That There Are Ghosts There

Exciting stories have been circulating recently concerning a ghostly apparition which is claimed to have been seen at the Henry R. Follett residence in the north portion of the village [Norwich, Chenango Co., NY] it is said this ghost appears in the dead of night in the form of a hearse drawn by white horses, which proceeds slowly through the grounds.  Many people have seen it.  It is understood that the residents of the neighborhood are loathe even to step into a neighbor's house lest they may be accosted by this weird spectacle.

 

The handsome residence of Mr. Follett is situated on the highest elevation of North Broad street at the extreme end of the village, commanding a beautiful view of the surrounding country and it is not unlikely that the ghosts would select such a sightly place for their nightly haunts.

 

A reporter found Mr. Follett in his office and questioned him regarding the apparitions.  He said, " I can not affirm positively that there are ghosts up at the old place, but on the other hand I shouldn't be a bit surprise if there were. Everybody knows that the old furnace building which used to stand just across the road from there was literally infested with ghosts.  Since it was torn down, I suppose they have been homeless and waiting for a good chance to find a vacant house. When I left they undoubtedly saw their opportunity and moved in.  No, the spirits have no lease, they are just squatters--tenants at sufferance so to speak.  But if they do not pay some rent pretty soon, I may decide to evict them."

 

"But how?" queried the reporter.

 

"Get some of my friends, the clergy, to go up there and exorcise them in due and ancient form, with bell, book and candle," said Mr. Follett.  "I understand it is easy enough if you have the formula."

 

"Is it true?" asked the reporter, "that you offer $25 to anyone who will sleep there over night?"

 

Mr. Follett looked apprehensive.  "No, indeed," he hastened to say, "but I will pay that sum for the capture and delivery of the hearse and horses;  they are worth it as a curiosity. This offer is open to Merton Holmes, too."

 

"Do you really believe in ghosts?" was the final question.

 

"Sure thing," said Mr. Follett solemnly.