Between the pandemic and the organizers being unpaid volunteers who were overwhelmed with their personal affairs, BAGH has been quiet for quite a while. It's time to catch up. We'll start the ball rolling with a book signing of Haunted San Jose, by Elizabeth Kile. Beth has accepted our invitation to join us for an afternoon to talk about her book at one of the locations she documented.
History Park is just one of the attractions Kelley Park has to offer. Its primary haunting was at the home of the property's former owner, Louise Archer Kelley. After she died, passing pedestrians would notice the face of a woman in a second-story window when the house was supposed to be unoccupied. Unfortunately, the old Kelley House was reduced to ruins after a devastating fire and was completely removed. (However, intelligent spirits have been known to move onto other houses in situations like this.) Happy Hollow has had a share of apparitions, especially that of a woman in a short red dress. This may be due to its proximity to a nearby homeless encampment on the other side of its fence. Being in a homeless situation can always be traumatic, which is a recipe for creating ghosts.
Beth has agreed to briefly talk, answer questions and sign copies of her book. If you already have a copy, feel free to bring it along for her autograph. If not, Haunted San Jose is on sale in the park's gift shop. If they sell out, Beth will have copies for $22 each. With all of the transplanted and recreated historic buildings, there are definitely spirits roaming around, so if any of our psychically sensitive members attend, we'll also be happy to hear their impressions.
We'll meet at O'Brien's where everyone can purchase refreshments. BAGH organizers will be wearing their flashing ghost necklaces. Depending on turnout, we may move to a picnic table outside. Afterward, feel free to explore the park, which is open until 4 p.m. Trolley rides are offered 12–3:15 p.m. The gift shop and info booth is open 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Admission to History Park is free. Although Kelley Park faces Senter Road, parking can be found outside its south entrance on Phelan Avenue. Parking is free, too.
If anyone is interested in purchasing any BAGH t-shirts, they'll be available at $25 each, tax inclusive, cash only. They come in medium, large, XL and XXL sizes. Proceeds go to the operation of BAGH.
Looking forward to seeing everyone!
Adrienne
