As the seasonal changes of fall appear in the falling leaves and the dropping temperatures, eerie events are taking place at the Andover Historical Society.
Throughout October, the Andover Historical Society is hosting Bewitched in Andover, a series of eerie events. Starting October 1st with a session called GhostHunting 101 and a lecture on The Witches of Andover by Kimberly Whitworth, we are in the midst of this buffet of spooky local history.
Join us tomorrow night for An Evening with Kathleen Kent including a 
book reading and signing with well-known author of the The Heretics Daughter, from 7:30-9:00. The book reading will take place from 7:00-7:30, reservations are required. Kathleen Kent has released in paperback her newest publication The Traitors Wife. The Andover Bookstore will be selling copies of all of Kathleen Kent’s books.
Coming up next Tuesday, a new program for children, Tea with Sarah Carrier: A 1692 Andover Girl. Like the beloved American Girl Doll stories, the Andover Historical Society is sharing stories of real Andover Girls of the past. The first Andover Girl will be a 1692 girl, Sarah Carrier. She was only 7 years old when her mother was imprisoned during the Witchcraft Hysteria. Even Sarah was imprisoned and accused of being a witch. During this special spooky tea party, girls will learn about what it was like to live in the Colonial era. They will make special crafts, learn about the past, and try foods that the Carriers may have eater. The Andover Girl Tea will take place Tuesday, October 18th, 3:30-5:00. Reservations are required.
Next Saturday, Tour of the Witch’s House at 9 Andover Street the Benjamin Abbot house. The home of witch trial accuser Benjamin Abbot will be open for tours during this one-time special event. Benjamin Abbot 
accused Martha Carrier of witchcraft, along with others, after an argument with Martha regarding land. A sore grew on Benjamin’s side and did not start to mend until she was taken away by the sheriff. Tours will include history of the ten generations of Abbots who lived in the second oldest home in Andover, history of Andover and the witch trials. Tours will take place on the hour and half hour from 1 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. with the last tour taking place at 3:30 p.m.
The final event to end Bewitched in Andover is a lecture on the history of West Parish Cemetery by Jim Batchelder. Make reservations to join us for Cocktails from the Crypt. Drinks will be served at 7:00 p.m. and an informative lecture will start at 7:30.
Call to make reservations at the Andover Historical Society 978-475-2236.
Transcribing the diary of Bessie Goldsmith was a very interesting experience. I got to learn about life in 1896 Andover through the eyes of a ten year old girl, as well as getting to share her experiences, and then sharing what I’ve learned with all of you!
