In a town known for its ghosts, and home to one of the most haunted buildings in the country, Eureka Springs is the place to be to get into the Halloween spirit. From ghost tours to cemetery walks, you’re sure to get a tingle down your spine at what you might see, or not see. For two weekends in October, the Eureka Springs Historical Museum invites you to step back in time and experience life in Eureka Springs in the 30’s and 40’s. As if they rose from the grave, tour guides dressed in period pieces portraying figures from Eureka’s past, talk about the history and myths of the town. Characters will describe their life at the time and reminisce with stories as they walk you through the Eureka Cemetery. Meant to be more educational than scary, each tour lasts approximately one hour. Tours begin at 5:30pm and leave every twenty minutes until 8:30pm.
This year on the tour, volunteer actors will represent musicians from Eureka Springs. These musicians would have played from the depression era through the post war years. The range of characters help to tell the story of the people that shaped the history of the town whether they were upstanding citizens or those with a scandalous past.
The tours will take place on October 18th and 19th and again on the 25th and 26th. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased at the Greater Eureka Chamber of Commerce, Cornerstone Bank and the Eureka Springs Historical Museum. There will be no parking in the cemetery. Free parking will be offered at the former Victorian Inn, 4028 E Van Buren, parking lot and a shuttle service will be provided.
The history of Eureka Springs began in the 19th century when it was discovered that the town was built on spring waters believed to have healing powers. Because so many people believed in the healing powers of the springs, people flourished to the town causing a boom and making it the fourth largest city in Arkansas from1879 to the turn of the century. The Eureka Springs Historical Museum shares this history of the town through a variety of exhibits and even an art gallery. The museum is located in the Calif building at 95 S Main Street in the Historic District. Proceeds from events like Voices from Eureka’s Silent City, help fund the museum’s day to day operations, on-going projects and special exhibits.
When visiting Eureka Springs, be sure to book your room at Arsenic and Old Lace Bed and Breakfast. The perfect spot for a romantic getaway, this bed and breakfast is located in the Historic District close to all the downtown area has to offer. Relax each evening by your own personal fireplace or in your room’s whirlpool tub. Awake each morning to a complimentary gourmet breakfast. Enjoy the view of the gardens and changing fall leaves from the wrap around porch. Innkeepers Beverly and Doug Breitling are ready to welcome you with exceptional service and hospitality.
Photo courtesy of Gayle Nicholson
