Hello again, historians!
As many of us know, some of the best ghost stories find their roots in some truly bizarre moments in history. That’s why every day leading up to Halloween, we at the Watson will be sharing snippets of Kingston’s own such stories — with, of course, a look into the history behind them.
If you’ve never heard of McBurney Park, than perhaps you are familiar with it’s nickname; Skeleton Park. So named for its being situated directly over top a 19th century cemetery, the park has been a staple of local legend for decades.
First used in 1814 as a cemetery for several different Christian sects, the cemetery is said to have been the final resting place for approximately ten thousand individuals. After falling out of use in 1862, the cemetery quickly became a popular spot for vandalism and crime.
By the late 19th century a plan was hatched to turn the old cemetery into a municipal park. Efforts made to exhume the multitude of corpses were quickly abandoned however, after the smell of human remains triggered numerous complaints. Questions were also raised regarding the morality and feasibility of the project itself. Ultimately this was resolved by a layer of earth being placed over bodies and gravestones alike, burying the old graveyard entirely.
Despite its long history, finding the occasional bone or headstone in the park is apparently still not unheard of. What is perhaps more chilling, is the multiple reports of ghosts wandering the park. Amidst disturbed graves and partially exhumed bodies, also lies restless spirits. Reports of spectral maternal figures, or playing children appear to be the most common sightings reported by visitors of the park.
Located only a fifteen minute walk north of campus, the famous Skeleton Park might be worth a visit this Halloween.
P.S Stay tuned for tomorrow, we take a look at the storied Prince George Hotel!
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