Summary

In "Public Executions in Pennsylvania," in the Journal of Lancaster County Historical Society (1960), the author, Negley Teeters discusses the role oral history played in the development of myths and ghost stories surrounding the gallows of numerous Pennsylvania counties. For instance, John Monks was executed in January of 1819 for murder but after his hanging people began believing that an apparition, perhaps of the recently deceased murderer, was haunting the town. Teeters discussed that these stories were "prevalent in the early days, and in some cases persisted for years" (Teeters, 1960, p.93).

In Lancaster, "Captain" Thomas Taylor, was executed on June 5th, 1779. Although, he was said to have been "revived by friends and was alleged to have returned to town periodically" (Teeters, 1960, p.93). And in Easton, it is believed that at the spot where "Negro" Bob met his fate there are many ghost stories and accounts of spirits being seen. While the site is linked to the town legend, the spot will always be "remembered in history and tradition" as the location where Bob was executed (Teeters, 1960, p.94).

While there are numerous ghost stories and myths resulting from the centuries of public executions that took place throughout Pennsylvania, most ghost stories and myths appear to be related to specific locations where historical events either occurred or were experienced. And as stories and myths are shared they root themselves deeper into local histories, baring significance to specific landmarks and locations. This also helps aids the creation of community and culture. Most ghost stories, an undervalued form of oral history, stem from eerie, dark truths surrounding the worst deeds imaginable. While there were 1,403 public executions in Pennsylvania, the majority of ghost stories are about those who committed the most violent crimes. This is because as humans we are curious about the unknowns -- the unworldly ghosts, demons, and spirits -- and about the "others" -- the murderers, bank robbers, and serial killers who don't abide by the rules of society.

Ghost stories, urban legends, and myths are important oral histories that help keep historical events alive. The more stories are told, the more the past is remembered. Ghost stories wrestle with our consciousness, simultaneously making us scared yet curious. It is evident that while ghost stories and urban legends, forms of oral history, are typically tied to dark and spooky pasts, they are still vital components of the creation of history and tradition.