Bess Connolly of Hickory Hosts Spooky Event, 1916

“Halloween Party,” from the Hickory Daily Record, Oct. 31, 1916

Miss Bess Connolly delightfully entertained at a Halloween party last night at her home on Twelfth street. Promptly at 8 o’clock silent white-shrouded figures began to appear from all directions and were met at the door by a black-robed witch who ushered them into a darkened hall and presented them to a mysterious figure who greeted them with a cold clammy hand. From the hall the visitors were directed into an adjoining room where the thrills of horror were heightened by the inevitable bump on the head of a large apple suspended above the floor. The house was in darkness save a weird glow which a few grinning pumpkins cast about the rooms decorated with black cats and autumn leaves.

Interesting events of the evening were the fortunes told by the witch in her den lighted by her cauldron and a “Goblin” contest which afforded much amusement. During the evening a pleasant surprise was sprung on the assembly by the visit of 25 or more gentlemen spirits who were in session at a nearby home. Following this the visited spooks decided to return the visit and on the return from this delicious refreshments in keeping with the occasion were served, after which the masked figures disappeared into the darkness for their homes.