Kousholy Ema: Unbelievable but true, 50% of Americans believe that ghosts or supernatural entities exist in this world. That’s why every year, from evening till night on October 31, Americans celebrate Halloween — known to many as the ‘festival of ghosts.’ Some even call themselves ‘spiritists’ or ‘good souls.’
Halloween originated in Ireland and Scotland. Today, millions of young men and women across the United States are celebrating this spooky festival. According to the belief behind the tradition, on this night, the souls of the dead descend to earth in hopes of reuniting with their loved ones. They come with the desire to be among the living — but humans do not want to let that happen. To help guide these wandering souls away, people light lanterns and colorful lamps in front of their homes so the spirits can see their way forward.
In Irish and Scottish folklore, Halloween is described as a time of ‘supernatural encounters’. People once believed that at the start of winter, on Halloween night, the spirits of deceased relatives would return to earth. In the 8th century, Pope Gregory declared November 1 as All Saints’ Day and the evening before it — October 31 — as All Hallows’ Eve, which later became known as Halloween.
Residents of the small town of Columbus in the state of Mississippi are familiar with a local legend that has long haunted the area. Americans in general are known for their belief in ghosts, particularly in the southern states of Mississippi, Louisiana (especially New Orleans), and Alabama. It is said that ghosts roam freely in those regions — some even residing in people’s homes. Many claim to see apparitions in old hotels, theaters, and historic houses.
One of the most famous haunted spots is ‘Three-Legged Lady Road.’ Ask anyone in Mississippi about it, and you’ll hear a chilling story. Long ago, a family in that area gave birth to a baby girl with three legs. As she grew up, villagers began to call her a “witch” and wanted to kill her. Despite the desperate pleas of her parents and her own crying for mercy, the village elders — particularly church officials — ordered her execution. She was beaten nearly to death, tied to the back of a car, and dragged until her body was torn apart by the stones of the road. Her remains were buried in the cemetery beside the church.
After her burial, people began reporting sightings of the three-legged girl. Her restless spirit allegedly terrified anyone who ventured there, forcing the residents to abandon the village. The church that ordered her death eventually vanished without a trace. Some claim to have seen something leap onto the roof of their cars, while others only heard loud thumping sounds above them. Those who didn’t speed away were said to be in mortal danger. These stories remain widely told — no one dares go out there after dark. The road lies in complete isolation, surrounded by emptiness.
From a commercial standpoint, Halloween in America and Europe has evolved into a children’s festival. Kids dress up in spooky costumes, go door to door, knock, and say “trick or treat” to collect chocolates and candies from homeowners.
Countless ghost stories circulate in America. Most Americans believe in ghosts, and many even claim to have encountered one. Interestingly, some say that among the people wearing ghost costumes on Halloween night — a few may actually be real ghosts.
BP/SM
