EMINENCE -- Ozark National Scenic Riverways will bring the Ozark past to life during the Haunting in the Hills event to be held Friday and Saturday at Alley Spring.
Fall is a season for gathering together, and Alley Spring has long been a gathering place for inhabitants of the Ozark hills. This free event features storytelling, folkway demonstrations, hands-on activities, food vendors, traditional dancing and bluegrass music.
On Friday evening, spirits of the past will be brought to life through storytelling and skits from 6-9 p.m., according to organizers. Illuminated pathways will guide the way through Ozark legends, folktales, mysteries, superstitions and natural wonders with spellbinding age-old storytelling. All storytelling sessions will run concurrently and will repeat every 30 minutes. Several talented, well-known storytellers will be featured at the event.
Hear stories of pioneer legends and lore from accomplished storyteller Diane Moran of Richwoods. Eric Mansfield of the Ozark Heritage Project takes on the role of Sheriff Deatherage during the famous Baker Hanging. Jim "Doc" Price will dramatize the customs of Ozark burial rituals. David "Doc" Nappier will bring the tragic story of one pioneer family during the Civil War to life.
The Missouri Department of Conservation will lead a spooky hike in search of the Karkaghne Monster. EZnDIL from Taneyville and the Eminence High School Drama Club will spook and entertain visitors during a skit about a "Paranormal Investigation of Alley Mill." A ghost might make an appearance in the twinkling candlelight during Ghost of Black Pond as performed by the Eminence High School Drama Club. The journey of Herbert the Hellbender as shared by Lori O'Dell will captivate youngsters.
Visitors are encouraged to bring along flashlights and folding lawn chairs.
On Saturday, local skilled crafts people will demonstrate from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Experience Ozark pioneer folkways and traditions such as basket making, weaving, spinning, wood carving, blacksmithing, chair caning and the making of household supplies of soap, candles, rope, brooms, apple butter, head cheese and hominy and apple cider. Learn about Ozark natural and cultural history from local organizations. Any and all talented "jig" dancers are invited to showcase your moves on the dance floor at our first "Jigging Dance Off" at 11:30 a.m. Saturday.
Traditional bluegrass music and dancing will be demonstrated throughout the day. Music and Dance Schedule:
Food vendors will be on site Friday and Saturday, cash sales only.
Alley Mill is located six miles west of Eminence, Missouri on State Highway 106. For more information, call 573-226-3945 or 573-323-4236; visit the park's Facebook page, or website at www.nps.gov/ozar.