On the morning of March 17, 1892, a group of townsfolk in rural Rhode Island dug up the graves of three local women. What they did to their bodies was something that we might find shocking, yet it was normal and expected for most of them. What was it in their past that guided their actions? Were they merely a product of their ancestors, or innocent participants in a regional panic?
Over 200 lives were lost during the construction of the Hoosac Tunnel in western Massachusetts. According to countless eye-witnesses across nearly 150 years, many of those deaths left indelible marks. What truly awaits visitors in the darkness of that tunnel? Is it simple echoes of a violent past, or the thing that haunts the deepest fears of every human being?
In 1582, the German town of Bedburg was ravaged by a violent and mysterious creature. After untold bloodshed, the townsfolk took up arms and hunted the monster down. What they found was something out of our deepest nightmares, and entirely too close to home.
Deep in the forest at the northern tip of a small island near Vancouver Island, there is a stone monument standing amidst the trees. How that structure came to be, and what it meant to those who built it, are both interesting stories. But it's the unofficial reports — the sightings and experiences of those who visit it — that truly deserve to be told.
Humans have always loved to build things, but we occasionally have to make adjustments to our plans. City ordinances, building codes, and property disputes all get in the way. Sometimes, though, the reason we change our plans is much more interesting than that.
Settings are often just as important to a story as the tale itself. The Shining had the Overlook. The Legend of Hell House had the Belasco. We fear cabins in the woods and even our own basements. But the mother of all horror settings is the asylum, with a dark pedigree unlike any other.
Stepping into the woods is like stepping through a doorway to another world. A world that hides dark secrets from prying eyes, and holds unknown dangers for unprepared travelers. But some woods are more sinister than others, and Massachusetts just might play host to the worst of them all.
When the authorities entered a building in Chicago’s south side in 1895, they weren’t prepared for what they found. Above and below the neighborhood pharmacy was a seemingly never-ending maze of doors and rooms. What those hallways and staircases led to, however, was beyond disturbing.
Few stories have the endurance to last centuries. Fewer still have a proven track record of documented, authoritative eye witness accounts to back them up. Among those rare myths, one stands above most. For nearly 300 years, something has haunted an area of the country that is known for rare and unusual wildlife. So many people have seen it, in fact, that it’s almost impossible to deny its existence.
The well-worn carpets and imperfect walls of an old hotel can often make guests feel as if they are staying in a little slice of the past. In one grand old hotel, however, that truth has never been more true.
Humans have a history of making up stories to explain the unexplainable. Sometimes we use those stories to teach our children a moral lesson, or entertain our friends. Sometimes, though, those stories get taken seriously, and the results have been unspeakable.
History is full of people who took things too far. Humans are gifted at turning on one another, a skill we’ve honed over the millennia. But when a small town in colonial Massachusetts needed a scapegoat for a dying hero, they discovered a target who refused to go down without a fight.
Life is a careful journey down a pathway that we’ve set our hearts on. But every now and then we get pulled off the trail. Sometimes that’s a good thing, but sometimes it’s the stuff of nightmares.
We don’t like to be alone. We hate it. So we tell stories about others, the things at the edges of society. Things we’re not sure about. But what if those “others” are more real than we first believed?
People can be a bit possessive. We love our things, and we cling tightly to them. But what happens when the things we own refuse to let go of us?
At the heart of every horror film is an iconic weapon. Often times they are nondescript and ordinary, but in the hands of a killer they become something more. Something that has the potential to haunt our nightmares. And sometimes those nightmares become reality.
We leave our loved ones there after they’ve passed. We treat the space with reverence and solemn deference. Cemeteries are meant to be a final resting place. Sometimes, though, the ones who should be gone try to come back.
For as advanced and civilized as we are, humans are still led by very basic desires. We are drive by a need for safety and shelter. We long for a community to belong to. And we hunger. But not every method of sating our desires is good. Upon occasion, those methods have become downright evil.
Seeing isn’t always a prerequisite for belief. In fact, oftentimes the things we believe in the most strongly are invisible to our naked eyes. But when we experience those invisible things through pain and physical attacks, our belief can become deep, paralyzing fear.
Home is where the heart is. It’s where we build our lives and celebrate the things we love. But it can also be the center of tragedy and darkness. On many different levels, there’s no place like home.
Since the dawn of time, humans have pushed themselves to explore. When that adventure took to the seas, however, it was an invitation for tragedy. The ocean, you see, takes much from us. And sometimes it gives it back.
History is full of examples of moments in time when hysteria and fear ruled common sense. While some of these examples were valid reasons to panic and worry, others were less logical. But that didn’t make them any less dangerous.
There are places in the world that we rarely see. Our busy lives never take us there, and as a result, they don’t come to mind when we think of chilling tales and frightening lore. But they exist, and despite their inherent light, they too hold a deep darkness.
Many family traditions and treasured folktales involve strangers who visit us. What would Christmas be without Santa, after all. But strangers in general are a lot less appealing than we might believe.
Over the centuries, all sorts of methods have been used to govern people. And while some have been just and humane — such as most modern legal systems — others have been more unusual. Social fear, religious tyranny, and military might. However, few examples stand out as much as the events that took place over a century ago on a small island off the coast of Chile.
Humans have been obsessed with escaping the grasp of death for thousands of years. It’s impossible, of course, but we dream of it nonetheless. Which makes the events in a small Caribbean village all the more horrifying.
Safety is a basic human need, and we build a lot of our life around achieving it. This is nothing new, really; humans have always sought safety in a dangerous world. And because of that, it’s those moments when safety is shattered that haunt us the most.
Stories leave a mark on us. They can act like scars or decoration, always there, always reminding us of things that happened. But in some cases, those stories leave behind literal, physical marks. Or do they?
Thanks to the writings of Stephen King, the state of Maine has become known as a place of fictional horror and tragedy. But it's at the real-life intersection of Maine's harsh winters and deadly coastline that we find the most tragic stories of all. Stories that no one would want to experience for themselves.
When two boys discovered a macabre surprise while playing in a Connecticut gravel pit, they uncovered more than a piece of the past. Their discovery echoes stories that are much older, stories with roots that reach far deeper than anyone might imagine.
We spend every waking moment surrounded by people. People who talk to us, who interact with us, and who are very much alive an breathing. Which is why it’s that much more shocking when we stumble upon those who aren’t. And it’s more common than you’d think.
Maybe it’s human pride, or maybe it’s a tendency toward superstition, but humans are very good at making excuses. When things don’t go our way or when something breaks, there always seems to be a reason for it. And apparently, those excuses have occasionally walked among us.
Folklore can change and evolve over time. But when we uncover the roots of these stories, we often find that the real events at their core are the darkest version of all.
Folklore has often developed as a response to real-world events, but the opposite has also been true. History has, upon occasion, unintentionally confirmed ancient tales. And nowhere is this more evident, or more bloody, than in the tale of one particular 16th-Century countess.
Popular culture is obsessed with the idea of a lost humanity. Countless films, novels, and television shows all ask the same question: what would happen if only a few of us were left? Unfortunately, the answer was discovered a century ago off the coast of Mexico.
The cities and buildings where tragedy has concentrated over the years always seem to hold stories. Stories of loss, of pain, and of things that refuse to move on. That quality, though, isn’t unique to places on land.
For as crowded as this world has become, most people feel isolated and alone. Perhaps that’s why so many of us believe that there’s another world, just beyond the veil. But when that veil is tampered with and pulled aside, it’s hard to say what might emerge.
Humans have always wandered off into unexplored territory. It’s a key part of our identity to leave safety behind in pursuit of adventure. Those journeys, though, don’t always end in success. In fact, sometimes they end in horrible tragedy.
For as long as humans have lived together in community, there has been the need for crimes and disputes to be settled by some form of court. Many of those trials have been fair, while others have been unjust. Some, though, have been downright weird.
The older the city, the more stories there seem to be. Some places are home to tragedy, while others have played host to disaster or war. Few cities have it all, though, and judging by the pain those stories often reveal, that might be a good thing.
We’ve been taught since childhood to be honest, because our actions have consequences and our words can hurt people. But the events that took place in a Scottish village over three hundred years ago took that lesson to a darker level.
Most of our fears can be blamed on a deeper, more instinctive anxiety: we hate losing control. And no place on earth represents that sensation more viscerally than prison. Contrary to popular belief, though, not all prisons have been created equal.
Throughout history, certain individuals have managed to rise to the challenge in the face of difficulty. But in 1827, that attitude was taken to a new—and horrific—level.
Civilization was transformed the moment we discovered it. We’ve built it into our religions and use it to advance our technology. Whether we take it for granted or not, there’s a darker side to this tool, and if we’re not careful, we might get burned.
A Halloween treat to add a bit of spook to your week. Each Lore “Trick or Treat 2016” episode is a collection of two of my favorite “shorts” in one place. Perfect for a rainy day, a walk in the dark, or a campfire gathering. This episode includes “Peg & Button” and “Behind the Door”.
We say it all the time. It’s a phrase we hang our hopes on. It represents our wants and desires. But “a dream come true” has an older, darker side as well. Darker, and a lot more creepy.
A Halloween treat to add a bit of dark history to your week. Each Lore “Trick or Treat 2016” episode is a collection of two of my favorite “shorts” in one place. Perfect for a rainy day, a walk in the dark, or a campfire gathering. This episode includes “In a Pickle” and “Drained”.
For almost as long as there have been stories of supernatural beings, there have been tales of those who hunt them. From ancient traditions to Hollywood blockbusters, these characters have filled our imaginations. But in 1969, those ideas became real.
Our world is full of mysterious sightings, but most of them can be explained away with cold logic and common sense. When multiple reports flood in, though, the unbelievable can sometimes become undeniable.
Tragedy is never something we plan for. It sneaks up on us like a bandit in the night, and takes away our sense of security and purpose. But throughout history, there have been places so plagued by tragedy that those who live near them consider these locations to be cursed.
It’s often said that our real identity is the person we are in private, away from the public eye. Over two centuries ago, however, one person gave life to that idea, and in the process, gave birth to an entirely new thing to fear.
The Spiritualist movement placed a large focus on reaching beyond the veil, which made us the outsiders pressing into a foreign realm. In the late 1800’s, however, that realm pressed back, and what a wonder it turned out to be.
We crave safety. We build rules and systems and even physical barriers in order to create a sense of security. But darkness has a way of creeping in, no matter how powerful the walls might be.
History is full of criminals. They come in all shapes, sizes, and flavors. Some are cheerful, some are dark. Some, however, steal more than money or precious belongings. To be caught in their web means paying the ultimate price.
Our connection to animals is ancient, intimate, and complex. Humans have worshiped them, sacrificed them, lived with them, and been buried with them. But folklore from all over the world hints at a darker connection, and it just might be true.
The more crowded our world becomes, the more frequently we are confronted with our commonality. Our interests, our passions…even our appearance. But just how similar can we get? Well, that’s the stuff of folklore.
Folklore is more than just a collection of stories; it’s the soul of a culture or location. Without them, our world has less texture and beauty. And like the stories themselves, some places have spirits that creep in and take up residence.
Fear has a way of spreading. It’s contagious, moving from person to person. Given enough time, fear can consume an entire community. Sometimes, though, there’s good reason to be afraid.
Nearly four centuries ago, a wave of sickness spread through a community in the French countryside. It wasn’t a traditional disease they were fighting, though. This plague had a more sinister source.
Human culture has a different expression no matter where you go. Despite that variety, though, we do share one common thread: music. And while it has typically been a source of joy, there have been moments when music has brought something else: fear, pain, and horror.
H.P. Lovecraft said it best: “…the oldest and strongest kind of fear is fear of the unknown”. And no other place in the world is as unknown to us as the ocean. It’s dark, it’s deep, it’s full of questions—and maybe something else.
Humans have an innate desire to fix what’s broken, and that’s a good thing. We’re not the best at it, though, and we often fail—sometimes horribly. And few examples are as powerful as the world of mental health.
You can tell a lot about a culture by the things it creates. Tools, exploration, weapons; all of it speaks to the priorities and character of that society. But if that’s true, then what are we supposed to assume about the mind behind one of history’s most bizarre creations?
Folklore and medicine often go hand in hand. In fact, for a long time they were the very same thing. But folklore has a way of leading people to tragic actions—all in the name of getting better.
Folklore and popular culture are filled with a type of event that seems both unusual and logical: time and time again, criminals return to the source. But as one man proved a century ago, it’s not always easy to go home.
The bigger the city, the easier it is to miss the little details. Stories of loss, tragedy, and horrifying events have a way of vanishing beneath the bustle of everyday life. And no place is better at hiding away its dark secrets than the Big Apple.
There are very few bits of folklore that haven’t spread around the globe over the past few centuries. Yet every now and then, something fresh and distinct pops up. But just because it’s relatively new doesn’t mean it’s safe.
Fire is a dangerous tool. Used properly, it can transform a society, but if it isn’t respected, it can burn that society to the ground. Which is why we are obsessed with controlling it—and completely, utterly afraid of it.
There are some locations that seem to draw humans closer. Places that are away from the bustle of everyday life, that almost seem part of our soul. We go there for solitaire, or for rest, or recreation. Sometimes, though, we don’t return.
The older the country, the deeper the roots of its folklore have grown—roots that are fed by darkness, fear, and pain. And few countries hold such a variety of frightening tales, both old and modern, as the lovely Emerald Isle. But not everything that walks those hills is safe to approach.
The sky is full of mystery. It’s big, expansive, and—despite a century of powered human flight—outside our realm of control. Which is why, for centuries, humans have expected things to come down from the sky and harm us. It might sound crazy now, but the possibilities are wide open. And that might not be a good thing.
There’s a fine line between rationality and madness, but it’s not as easy to avoid as you might think. Throughout history, our world has played host to people who have taken their superstitions too far, but it was the chaos of the English Civil War that helped give birth to one of the worst.
The first Trick or Treat Halloween special of 2017 features two tales. The first, A Bridge Too Far, walks us through a winter train ride that went horribly wrong over a century ago. The second story reminds us that life is a lot more complex than we’re willing to admit. Rise Above introduces us to the darkness found inside that complexity.
We’ve conquered much of our world, but even with all of our great cities and urban sprawl, there are still shadows on the edge. And it’s in the shadows that the greatest threats still exist—creatures from our darkest nightmares that threaten our feeling of safety. Which has led some to strike out into the dark and hunt them.
In this second Lore Trick or Treat 2017 set of stories, we explore the power of folklore and fate. A Head of Steam takes us on an eerie trip through the graveyard, while A Deadly Past shows us how sometimes our actions have a way of catching up with is.
Humans have a seemingly never-ending list of fears. The dark of night, small spaces, open water…there doesn’t seem to be an area of life that doesn’t come with a few reasons to take pause and be afraid. But the greatest of those fears might just come at the end of our lives, and for over a century, that fear drove people to unimaginable things.
When our health is failing and our lives are at risk, trust is essential. The people who care for us often find themselves in a position of power, with our well-being entirely under their control. As history has shown us, however, there’s danger in handing that much control over to another person.
The sky is a source of life for everything on this planet. Rain to quench our thirst and sunlight for our food. We don’t look up too often these days, but that hasn’t changed our dependance on it. But occasionally, the sky can be a source of something else. Something much less typical than rain or snow or sunshine. History, it seems, paints a very frightening picture of the world above us.
The pages of our greatest literature are full of tales of powerful wizards. People gifted with abilities that stand head and shoulder above their peers. They act as guides, ushering us into a new world with fresh possibilities. And yet they are much more than simply a tool used by storytellers. In fact, history paints a much more fascinating—and dark—picture for us.
Life is a lot like a big budget movie. We click play, and then let the action wash over us. There are highs and lows, laughter and tears, and then it’s all over and the screen goes silent. The dead can’t talk back, something most people are thankful for. Still, there have been rare moments in history when that rule appears to have been broken—and the results were extraordinary.
Waves of illness crash against the shores of humanity. They always have, and they probably always will. But we weather the storm through advancements in medical science and the resilience of human nature. Still, no matter how hard we’ve tried, some outbreaks have left a dark stain on the pages of history.
We live in a very technological world today, with constant updates and improvements over last year’s model, and while many of the advancements are amazing, few have impacted humanity quite like photography. It opened up new worlds, and changed the way we think about time and space. Some, however, might have taken that too far.
Our lives have a way of becoming magnets that attract pain and suffering. Some of us go through more than others, but in the end, we’re all running from something. Just how far we might go to get away is a mystery, but it could never top the lengths one person went to to escape a life of pain and guilt. This is their story.
The places we inhabit slowly become like us, reflecting our brightest ambitions and darkest secrets. Countless cities harbor the shadows of a violent past, but few hide it so elegantly as one southern gem.
Humanity seems to always be at risk of suffering through another major outbreak. History is full with dark moments of biological chaos, and despite constant advances in medical science, there seems to be no end in sight. We’re afraid of getting sick, and sometimes it feels like we’re right on the edge. And that can be a terrifying place to be.
People are really good at moving on. We rush from fad to fad at an alarming speed, and it’s difficult to predict where our interests will land next. In the process, we tend to abandon things—things like the places we live. But don’t be fooled; even after we’ve all moved on, those places are far from uninhabited.
Humans have always been more than a little bit superstitious, and one of the oldest and most universal of those beliefs is the curse. The story of how that belief has evolved in relation to one particular culture, though, is both powerful and frightening. It would serve us well to not get swept up in the lies.
Nothing is more magical than when a family works together. But when their talents seem to defy all logic and reason, it might not be a bad idea to dig deeper and look for the truth. Just be careful—the truth, it turns out, isn’t always that simple.
Our home is supposed to be a safe space where we are free to relax and enjoy life. History, though, contains stories that break that mould. Places where people want to live in peace, and yet find themselves at odds with forces beyond their control. And if there’s a logical reason, it might very well be buried in the past.
Our bodies are a fortress, and every day, they suffer through attacks from the outside. Over the centuries, we’re become very good at protecting ourselves from illness and disease, but all of those efforts assume everyone around us will be responsible. Illness, though, has often been misused—sometimes maliciously and other times through sheer ignorance—and the results have been horrifying.
Every now and then a story comes along that is so powerful and compelling that it creates a new branch on the tree of folklore. Yes, it has deeper roots, but sometimes a new expression of fear grows out to cast new shade on our already-fearful lives. And one of these rare moments happened less than six decades ago.
Humans have always sought companionship. From the communities we live in, to the pets we welcome into our homes, our need for companions is as old as we are. But that natural desire has led some to pursue some very unnatural ideas.
Some cities experience a single tragedy and then live with that pain and loss for generations. They are built on a dark foundation, and everything new takes on a flavor of the past. But there are other places where that tragedy is spread out over time, like a slow-burning fire that never fully consumes but always leaves its mark—and I’d like to take you on a tour of one.
We tend think of rivers and lakes as tame. They are the safe and friendly counterpart to the deep and treacherous waters of the ocean. Freshwater rivers and lakes give us life, after all. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t dangerous. Somewhere in the darkness beneath their calm surface, terrifying stories wait for us.
Islands have served a variety of functions for people over the years. They can be a place of safety and privacy, or of simplicity and escape. But islands have played host to other less savory events over the years. And just because they can be small, it doesn’t mean they can’t be dark.
There is a lot in life that we can control, but no system is perfect. Every now and then, circumstances pull the rug out from underneath us and leave us powerless. But at least one surprise turn of events had a different affect, and the results have left us with questions that are still unanswered today.
Humans are hard-wired for trust. It’s the secret ingredient that helps us form communities, build relationships, and grow as people. But while that trust is a noble inclination, it can also get us into trouble—trouble that can sometimes turn deadly.
Our understanding of the natural world is incredibly advanced compared to our ancestors from a few centuries ago. We have established rules and order to help us frame how everything works. On occasion, though, those rules have been broken, and the results have been absolutely terrifying.
Few things disappoint us more than when our expectations aren’t met. We expect to be loved, or to be rewarded for our hard work. And above all, we expect the people in our lives to always be there. Which is why it’s so frightening to hear stories of those who don’t—of people who were right there, where they should be, only to disappear without explanation.
Life is full of challenges. From learning new skills to climbing the social ladder, most people struggle with the hurdles we’re forced to overcome. But when it’s all said and done, few things are as difficult as something all of us will have to face some day: saying good-bye.
For thousands of years, humans have built rules and procedures for handling the various curveballs that life throws our way—and we place a lot of trust in those systems. Most of the time, it all works properly, but there are moments when human nature and our belief in the unusual throw a wrench in the gears.
When tragedy strikes and poor choices haunt us, sometimes the only thing we can do is move on and build on the ashes of the past. But there are places where that hasn’t worked out so well. In fact, sometimes the worst thing we can do to history is bury it.
Each of us holds inside ourselves a precious cargo. It is the key to life, and a worthy sacrifice when important things are on the line. And yet it also sits at the center of some of our greatest fears. After all, if something’s precious, there’s always someone who wants to steal it.
Every movement has a seed, that spark that sets the fire ablaze. But this spark is more than just a murder mystery, or a treasure hunt, or even a haunting unlike any other. This one is all three. Which may explain why a century and a half later, the world is still reeling from its impact.
Like a well-loved pair of shoes, or those jeans you bought in college and never gave up on, some things become worn out over time. But when that thing is a physical location, eroded away by thousands of years of human activity and deep, rich folklore, what sort of nightmares might we expect to pour in through the hole? There’s only one way to find out.
Most of us live incredibly busy lives, and because of all that distraction, we tend to miss the little things. Whether it’s a forgotten birthday, or the small puddle of water beneath your water heater in the basement, not noticing things can have consequences. And sometimes, those details can be a matter of life and death.
Humanity is fueled by hope. We hope for improvement, and dream of a day when things get better than they are right now. And for a very long time, there have been certain people who have taken advantage of that hope. What they deliver instead is an unexpected dose of darkness.
The ocean is very good at taking things from us, but we are equally skilled at not forgetting. Still, no matter how many stories we tell about lost ships and vanished loved ones, it will never bring them back. At least, that’s what most people believe.
We love to simplify things. Easy is better than complex, after all, and simple things are easy to understand. Sadly, though, the people around us are far from simple; they are complex and layered, with deep, hidden stories just waiting to be discovered.
Humans have a tendency to collect things. From baseball cards to Twitter followers, we enjoy bringing everything into one place. But when that collection represents the very worst of humanity—both in how it’s managed and where it comes from—the act of collecting comes with dire consequences.
We like to think we’ll see it coming. That we can plan ahead and prepare—even defend ourselves. But death comes in all shapes and sizes, sometimes so small and featureless that it slips through our carefully constructed defenses without us even knowing. And history shows us that all of us should be worried about that.
Our oceans are some of the most remote regions on the planet. Because of that, people have filled that darkness and space with stories that reflect our common fears and deepest suspicious. Unfortunately, the pages of history offer less reason than we might hope for, leaving us to wonder exactly what might be out there, lurking beneath the waves.
There’s a lot in life we can count on. Death, taxes, the sunrise, and political turmoil--these are all guaranteed, safe bets. But outside that, everything else is an assumption. And sometimes we get it tragically, horribly wrong.
Not everything can be perfect. Even when there’s a clean slate and we’re given the resources and tools to make something great, humans have a way of building their flaws into it. And while there are many examples of locations built on a crooked foundation, few have the haunting historical tales to back it up.
The deepest mysteries come from the places we haven’t fully explored, or where we lack the control that makes us feel safe. And yet one of the most universally mysterious places of all is closer than you might believe. It’s the best kept secret everyone has been sleeping through.
Of all the parts of life that we can depend on, one of the darkest parts is loss. That’s the trouble with being surrounded by mortal, fragile human beings; at some point, the people we love won’t be here anymore. Which is why the mourning process is the playground for all sorts of powerful bits of folklore.
Throughout history, cultures around the world have explored the world of medicine in search of tools that can heal our bodies. We’ve used plants and minerals, of course, but the most powerful tool might also be the most taboo—and it’s been right in front of us the entire time.
Most locations have an isolated history that is unique to them and only them. But some places have served as the entry point for a bigger idea and a larger impact on history as a whole. Sadly, that sort of significance always seems to come at a price, and it’s a cost that’s difficult to forget.
The way we explain the world around us is determined by the lens we view it through, especially when events sit outside the realm of the believable. And no better moment in time can illustrate that idea better than the perfect storm of fear and paranoia that descended on a New England village a handful of centuries ago.
No one likes to be sick, and yet it is one of the most dependable things in life. We will all, at some point, become ill, and when we do, the most important thing in our world will be recovery and wellness. Many simply wait for nature to take its course, but history is full of takes of those who have taken it a bit too far.
Everything is built upon something else. Whether it is a mighty fortress, a simple home, or the very lives of the people around us, there’s a foundation beneath everything. But don’t let that strong, smooth layer fool you. There’s darkness down there, if you know where to look.
Some people have a fire inside them that drives them to do great things. New discoveries, breakthrough inventions, or astonishing accomplishments. But some have harnessed that passion for something darker, and they’re actions have left a painful mark on history.
Some stories have been around for a very long time, and others are fairly new. One thing is certain, though: the tales we tell have a way of changing over time. But that doesn’t make them any less powerful—or any less frightening.
Human ambition has led us to some amazing achievements, and taken us to unexplored places. But it has also lured us into places where there is a lot more fear and danger than we are used to, and the stories that have grown out of that world have left the world a richer—and more frightening—place.
Some threats to our safety and well-being are obvious and easy to spot from a mile away. Over the course of history, people have become very skilled at looking for danger and avoiding it. But some threats are more difficult to spot—and once they strike, the results can be deadly.
Human nature has a number of powerful, universal characteristics. Our need for community. Our love of storytelling. Our seemingly infinite capacity to adapt and thrive. But some of the most terrifying events in history find their root in one other: our will to survive.
Home might very well be what you make it, but it’s not always about beautiful decorations and comfortable furnishings. Sometimes the places we live take on elements of our own personality. Even after we’ve moved on, those pieces remain behind, like echoes of another time—echoes that can still be felt today.
Everyone wants to look good. And while there’s nothing wrong with beauty, sometimes people have made sacrifices—both willing and unaware—in the pursuit of it. After looking through the pages of history, though, that hasn’t always been a good thing.
Everyone longs for someone. That special partner who can enter their life and make is something better, something more. And while dating has taken many forms over the years, nothing is like a good, old fashioned personal ad—or the people who took advantage of them.
Some places in our world have a dark legacy. Prior failures. Shameful acts. Painful tragedy. Even though it all took place long before we arrived there, we can still feel the tremors of that darkness—and the stories about their source are deeply chilling.
If you flip through the pages of history long enough, you’ll eventually run into stories about life out of balance, and how something—fate or chance or something otherworldly—has stepped in to make it right. In fact, some of those stories have become a part of our modern popular culture—all despite the deadly stories at their center.
Most of our life is spent looking for things. Companionship, security, even our lost keys. But above all of that is our search for answers, and the way human beings have tried to find them has lead to all manner of frightening situations.
The longer humans stay in one place, the more progress and community we seem to create. But at the same time, we bring our darkness with us, and over time it begins to stain a place with shadows of pain and tragedy. And the older the city, the darker the mark.
Before cell phones and internet access, learning about the world around us took a lot of time. Along the way, there would be gaps in our knowledge—holes that human cultures tended to fill with folklore. And while the creatures they invented to fill those gaps were amazing, it’s how close they often got to reality that makes those stories truly frightening.
While the ocean represents opportunity and hope to a lot of people, it also holds more mystery than most of feel comfortable with. Yes, we’ve explored it in search of new lands and discoveries, but we’ve also lost so much in the process. Amazingly, though, some things that are lost occasionally return.
We all love a good hiding place. Whether it’s the child who tucks the key to their diary under their pillow, or the parent who hides away the holiday gifts, humans have proven themselves to be fond of secret places. But if the stories are any indication, there’s one place in England that was better than most at doing what we love.
The human tendency to study the unknown—to dig deep and search for the bedrock of truth at the bottom of the mystery—is one of our most enduring qualities. But while that tenacity has helped scientists unlock much of our world, it has also led us to unusual ideas. And you’d be surprised what they recorded about it.
There’s nothing more certain in life than death. No matter how rewarding or challenging our days on this planet might be, for as long as humans have been around, we’ve viewed death as something akin to slumber, however natural or untimely it might be. But not all that sleep are left undisturbed.
We like it when things go according to plan. Even when it comes to death, we long to have some semblance of control over our path. So when those best-laid plans are disrupted by the unexpected, it’s only natural to assume the worst.
Folklore is our legacy. We humans have carried it with us everywhere we’ve gone in the world, and it anchors us to our roots and our community. But it also does something else: it gives us a place to hide our fear, to put it on a leash and control it. And there’s one story in particular that does that better than most.
Our passion for solving incomplete puzzles is something that unites us as a culture. We will chase any mystery and dig into every single question we encounter. But that attraction might also put us in grave danger, if history is any indication.
Humanity has grown over the millennia by passing on knowledge through teachings and guides. Even today, how-to books are best-sellers, and people are more hungry than ever to learn and grow. But some lessons aren’t worth passing on, and in a few cases, they’ve even been incredibly destructive.
The way we treat the past is a great lens into the character of humanity. Sometimes we elevate it, but all too often we work to bury it. And while the excuse might be to make room for the march of progress, it also allows us to hide our worst mistakes and most painful tragedies.
We often speak in lofty terms about all that humans are capable of achieving, and much of that is true. But looking backward in time, we can also see moments when that potential has led to horrible tragedy. And we have no one to blame but ourselves.
Humanity has always been very good at making the best of a bad situation. Either by burying the past, or at least by building distractions that take the focus off of it. But no matter how beautiful those distractions are, our past always leaves a mark.
There’s a lot that science has explained away. Mysteries that left us cowering in fear. Events that challenged our feelings of security and control. But even after all that progress, there are still some unexplained stories that left to haunt us.
Some of the oldest and most popular parts of folklore are the ghost stories. Whether told around a campfire, or red about in the safety a well-lit room, they are always fun, and often chilling. But there’s so much more to ghosts than wispy visions and rattling chains.
Folklore is often about danger and how we, as a community, might avoid it. But real life sometimes becomes a mirror of those fears, and leaves us wondering why no one saw it coming.
Human ingenuity knows no bounds. Along with creating all manner of new technology, and ever more complex levels of knowledge, another thing we are good at inventing is ourselves. And sometimes that alteration can become the stuff of legend.
Humans have spent thousands of years building systems to keep us as safe as possible. But eventually, each of us will have to stop and rest, letting down our guard and opening ourselves up to perhaps our darkest and oldest of enemies.
Humans have long practiced the art of building walls and fortresses in an effort to gain control or find safety. But no place is safe from the danger we bring upon ourselves, and sometimes those tragedies stay right where they started.
If history has shown us anything, it’s that humans are easily motivated by fear. Just what some of those fears have been, though, is more than a little frightening.
History has proven just how good humans are at improving things, from weapons and tools to medicine and education. But some advancements come at a price, while creating some horrifying folklore in the process.
History can be easy to brush aside or paint over, giving us the illusion of control. But just because we can’t see the past doesn’t mean it’s not there, active and powerful, working behind the scenes to remind us of our tragedy and pain.
For a very long time, people have believed that our world is filled with magic. Secret knowledge and hidden truths that we can use to unlock power and privilege. It’s a belief that’s taken all shapes and forms, but there’s one common thread tying it all together: books.
Folklore is filled with stories that evolve over time, and while the originals are full of drama and fright, it’s in the evolution that they truly come to life.
Sometimes the past sticks around because we work hard to make sure it’s never forgotten. Other times, it stays with us because we refused to let it go. But in one American city, the past seems to have stuck around for darker reasons.
Everywhere you go these days, there are superstitions. Many are modern, and not much more than clever word games or rhymes designed to help us remember things. But a few are older, with roots in a past that’s a bit darker than we’d like to admit.
Some stories are very familiar to us, but our understanding of them is only the tip of the iceberg. Even one of folklore’s most legendary creatures has roots that are almost forgotten today—roots that are both ancient and terrifying.
Humans are very good at making assumptions. But if we look a little deeper, our preconceived ideas about some of the most common bits of folklore won’t just change—they’ll transform into something terrifying.
One of the most common features of our legends and folklore is our dreams. And one of the most common dreams, across all the pages of history, is a desire that has haunted people since the dawn of time—a desire that might just be more attainable that we realize.
Oftentimes, the truth is right in front of us, made as plain as day and easy to access. But sometimes it’s lost, and the only way to track it down is through story. But as one island in the Pacific Northwest demonstrates, digging for the truth often comes at a price.
Whether intentionally or by accident, the past has a way of slipping away, slowly vanishing beneath our feet. That doesn’t mean it’s gone forever, though. But before we seek unearth it, it would be wise to remember that some things are buried for a reason.
One of the oldest beliefs in human history is also the root of countless stories in our collective folklore. But to understand the power of those tales, we need to understand the people who brought them to life.
Folklore is often born in moments were answers and hope seem lost, and few situations like that have generated more stories than the crucible of human conflict.
In a world obsessed with fairytale endings, the most iconic type of setting for those stories turns out to also be home to some of the darkest histories around.
It should come as no surprise that one of humanity’s greatest qualities is also the tool with which it has committed much darker tragedies. Even far from the wilds of the Old World, that legacy was never far behind.
While animals have been our constant companions for thousands of years, one chapter of our long history together led to much more terrifying results.
Some places seem to straddle the boundary between one world and another. It’s a feature than can often generate charm and beauty, but sometimes it creates darker things, as the history of these historic islands demonstrates so well.
For thousands of years, humans have used a tool of violence to control their enemies, advance their careers, and remove their problems. And the only thing more frightening than the tool itself are the stories about the people who use it.
Death is one of life’s certainties, and the final chapter in each of our stories. And yet throughout history, there have been reports of those who have broken the rules—and the brave few who rose to the challenge to stop them.
The episode that started it all, freshly narrated, newly produced, and scored with Chad Lawson's haunting music. And don't miss the brand new story after the ads.
Hope is a powerful emotion, and it has driven humans to do great things over the centuries. It’s also a key element of folklore, but the stories it gives rise to there are more than just inspiring—some of them can also be terrifying.
It's our classic visit to the Hoosac Tunnel, reputed to be one of New England's most haunted locations. Freshly-recorded, newly produced, and scored with music from Chad Lawson...and don't miss the brand new story after the ads.
We’ve all been told to beware things that seem too good to be true, and for good reason. But beyond the world of hucksters and frauds, one special group of people fooled an entire culture, at the cost of hundreds of lives
Our classic exploration of everyone's favorite hairy beast, freshly re-recorded and produced from scratch with music by Chad Lawson. And don't miss the new Epilogue story after the credits!
Some of the most frightening kinds of folklore are the ones with a familiar element. Details that sit a bit too close to home. Qualities that resonate just a bit too much. And few places host legends more terrifying than the wilderness around us.
Our classic tour of the Pacific Northwest's most haunted mausoleum is back, with brand new narration, music by Chad Lawson, and modern production. The chills, though, are 100% original.
The older the city, the deeper its roots. And when that location is the oldest around—well, the amount of darkness it’s hiding should not come as a surprise.
A fresh take on a classic episode, exploring the world of hidden spirits in the earth, and the way humans have shaped their lives around those beliefs. With a brand new recording, modern production, and music by Chad Lawson.
Many people need something to believe, and someone to follow. But out of all the examples throughout history of bad leaders, few are as bizarre and unexplainable as one man from a century ago.
Revisit the classic journey into some the history behind our fascination with derelict mental health hospitals. The same story you love, with modern narration and production, plus a new bonus story at the end.
On the edge of the world, where risk and danger crash constantly against the shores of civilization, stands a type of ancient guardian that everyone recognizes, but few truly understand. And there’s at least one mystery waiting for those brave enough to explore them.
Let’s all step back into the woods that started it all: the legendary—and frightening—Bridgewater Triangle. This classic script has been updated with fresh narration, production, and music.
Much like our instinct to set up a home in new places, humans are good at creating everything else we might need. And that includes folklore. But if even half of the stories that have been born in this one town are true, there’s a lot to be afraid of.
Let’s all revisit the hunting grounds of one of America’s most horrific—and prolific—serial killers: H. H. Holmes. This Remastered edition includes fresh narration and production, music by Chad Lawson, and a brand new Epilogue tale at the end.
In our never-ending journey to discover what makes us tick, people have come up with some pretty surprising ideas. And in the process, they’ve given themselves permission to do some utterly terrifying things.
It’s time to return to one of the classic American monster stories, the Jersey Devil. In this remastered edition you’ll get the same story you’ve known and loved, but with brand new narration and production, all layered over the hauntingly beautiful music of Chad Lawson. The Devil would be proud.
In all the folktales about the forest, we are warned to not set foot inside, lest the darkness and dangers that live there seek us out and harm us. But there are other stories that describe a much more sinister outcome, and throughout history they have proven themselves true.
The well-worn carpets and imperfect walls of an old hotel can often make guests feel as if they are staying in a little slice of the past. In one grand old hotel, however, that truth has never been more true. This remastered edition includes a brand new story at the end, plus refreshed narration and production, and music from Chad Lawson.
One of the things that has united humans across cultures and languages is music. For as long as we can remember, we have filled our lives with new musical backdrops. And at the center of that world are the people who write and perform it all—as well as the stories about where their powerful gifts come from.
In this remastered edition of a classic episode, we’ll revisit the folklore of changelings, and the tragic story of Bridget Cleary, with a brand new story at the end, plus refreshed narration and production, and music from Chad Lawson.
Some of the darkest moments in human history have taken place because of our hunger for a second chance, a better life, or a fresh start. But not all opportunities are guaranteed a bright and shiny outcome.
It’s time to return to the colonial village of Hadley and reunite with the neighborhood witch, Mary Webster. All presented with modern production, fresh narration, and a brand new bonus story at the end.
Folklore has many uses, and a quick trip through history would reveal many that you’ve come to expect. It educates a community, preserves events and well-known figures, and provides a sometimes-fictional explanation for mysterious happenings. But one particular use for folklore needs a deeper look…because it’s beyond thrilling.
In this remastered edition of a classic Lore episode, we revisit the concept of curses, and take a tour through some of the most powerful examples. With fresh narration and production, and a brand new story at the end.
In the world of folklore, one of the most interesting most timeless characters is also the least supernatural. But that doesn’t mean their stories are any less thrilling or entertaining.
We’ve always had a hunger for mystery stories and true crime. But for a period of time, many of those stories had a very unusual element to them—a detail that had a way of making less believable today, an so much more frightening.
While many of the places we live are defined by their current, modern personalities, a look into the past can reveal a much more thrilling—and terrifying—picture. And no where is that more true than the Silver State.
Some of the most frightening and disturbing stories are the ones that take a different path than we expected. Their horror is in the exceptions, the little things that make them different. But some little things are more difficult to see coming.
History is filled with people who gathered unusual collections, often following a curiosity or passion to the extreme. But among those collectors, there have been those who have taken things too far. And the objects of their obsession have become the stuff of nightmares.
The folklore surrounding small, human-like creatures from around the world is worth another visit. And this time, the journey has been remastered with new narration and music, modern production, and a brand new story at the end. Enjoy!
If there’s one thing humans have been obsessed with over the years, it’s the risk that the most dangerous, evil things in the world might find a way inside and take control. The stories about this usually sound more like fantasy than fact, but history has a few surprises in store for us all.
The folklore surrounding haunted dolls, and the tale of Robert the Doll in particular, deserves a revisit. This Remastered edition of a classic Lore episode includes fresh narration and production, and a brand new story at the end.
One of the most frightening aspects of our lives is something that’s hidden from our eyes. And yet its impact is so powerful and destructive that we’ve spent centuries running in fear from it. Well, except for one brave community, that is.
It’s time to pay another visit to the little house in Villisca that played host to one of the most horrible ax murders in history. This classic episode is presented with fresh, modern narration and production, as well as a brand new bonus story at the end.
Many of the darkest moments from history were born out of a perfect storm of motivation, fear, and misguided courage. And in the case of one individual, that became a recipe for something beyond horrific.
It’s never a bad time to revisit this classic episode about graveyards and the folklore around them. Complete with fresh narration, a new soundtrack, and modern production, plus a brand new bonus episode at the end.
Some of the darkest stories and traditions are hiding inside one of our most beloved times of the year. Let’s take a fun and frightening journey into the heart of it all.
The chilling legends of the wending never get old, so it seems right that we revisit this classic episode. Enjoy the fresh narration and modern production, along with the brand new story tucked away at the end as a special treat.
Many of the mysterious creatures in folklore have been passed down through the centuries, allowing rumor and hearsay to deliver fragments of truth waiting to be reassembled. But in some cases, the picture that takes shape is far from safe and comforting.
Encounters with angry spirits will forever be some of the most terrifying experiences on record. If that’s the thrill you’re looking for, revisiting this classic episode will hit the mark. And as part of our “Remastered” project, this version is re-worked from the ground up, with fresh narration and production, music by Chad Lawson, and a brand new story at the end.
It’s a place where dreams are born, and were stars take flight. But beneath that thin, beautiful surface is a darker past, and the stories it holds are far from happy.
Home is where the most powerful experiences of our lives take place. But when those experiences are tragic, the memories can sometimes stay behind. In this Remastered edition of a classic episode, we’ll revisit a handful of homes who are still haunted by their past. With fresh narration, music by Chad Lawson, and a brand new Epilogue story at the end.
One of the oldest and most common beliefs in the world is also the source of intense fear and debate. But there are historical events on record that make it difficult to trust everything we hear...no matter how terrifying they might be
This remastered edition of a classic Lore episode takes us back to the chilly waters of the North Pacific, where tragic wrecks have left haunting reminders and frightening tales. Fresh narration from start to finish, scored with music by Chad Lawson, and an entirely brand new story at the end. Enjoy!
Some corners of folklore are a product of time, as centuries and cultures have all made their mark on them. But one type of story in particular has become a favorite of anyone who loves a good legend. Let's take the time to explore it today
It’s time to return to the dark streets of Victorian London, and to the mysterious figure who put the city on edge…all while jumping over tall buildings in a single bound. The classic Lore episode has been re-recorded with fresh narration, scored with music by Chad Lawson, and includes a brand new bonus story at the end that you won’t want to miss!
The monsters from folklore that make the biggest impact on us are also the ones that are the most similar to us. It's almost as if the most dangerous creatures of all are the ones that have a healthy dose of humanity in them.
The structures that serve as lighthouses on the edge of darkness and danger deserve a revisit, and this Remastered classic episode should bring some fresh chills. New narration, music by Chad Lawson, and a brand new bonus story at the end. Enjoy!
For centuries, various cultures have leaned on their justice system to provide safety from those who threaten their daily lives. But when a community lacks those resources and finds themselves facing constant danger at every turn, they're often left with only one option, and the results can be tragic
Christmas taught most of us that it was acceptable for an odd stranger to invade our home and demonstrate unusual knowledge of our family. But there are far more terrifying strangers than old St. Nick. This classic Lore episode has been updated with fresh narration and production, and a brand new story at the end.
When a series of gruesome murders leaves one community feeling threatened and afraid, it was only through the reenactment of folklore that they eventually found relief.
This return visit to the eerie island of Chiloé and its history of dark magic features fresh narration and production, plus a brand new story at the end.
Some of the oldest—and most bizarre—folklore in the world is about something we use to fill awkward conversations these days. But if more people knew how truly disturbing those stories are, they’d view the sky in an entirely different way.
It’s time to revisit the walking dead of folklore, and explore the unique traditions and legends from the island of Haiti. Freshly narrated, newly re-produced, and re-scored with Chad Lawson’s music…and be sure not to miss the brand new bonus story at the end.
One of the most common players on the stage of folklore is a creature that’s been obsessed over for centuries. And it’s fair to say that, however frightening the stories might be, Europe has been pretty taken by them.
REMASTERED – Episode 27: On the Farm It’s time to return for a walk through the snow and explore the barn of a small farmhouse in the woods of Germany, known today as Hinterkaifeck. Brand new narration and production, plus an entirely new Epilogue story at the end.
Our love of all things thrilling and dramatic has led to some amazing achievements. But in the very center of that cultural legacy is a story that’s both dark and chilling. And it comes with an encore that seems too strange to be true.
Let’s return to the location of another classic Lore episode, for one more tour through the sandy beaches and ancient stories of the Outer Banks. Featuring fresh narration, music by Chad Lawson, and a brand new Epilogue story at the end.
One of the most brutal and notorious unsolved murders in American history is also the seed that grew into its own fair share of folklore. How that affected the lives of those who survived is half the story.
In this Remastered edition of a fan favorite, we return to the frozen coast of Maine, and the haunting stories that flood its shores. With a new score from Chad Lawson, fresh narration and production, and a brand new bonus story at the end, this is one you don’t want to miss.
If the best way to experience something is first-hand, then this 200th episode of Lore is going to have to get a little personal.
Nothing is as alluring as vampire folklore. And in this remastered classic, we return to the villages of Eastern Europe to explore just how deep those roots go. Come for the refreshed narration and production, and stay for the brand new bonus story at the end!
You can’t beat an old classic. And in the world of folklore, there are few types of stories more classic that the good old fashioned ghost story. So today, we take a tour through some of the most chilling and thrilling of the bunch.
In this newly remastered classic Lore episode, we revisit stories of bodies lost and bodies found. With fresh narration and production, and a brand new bonus story at the end of the episode, this chilling tale is bound to uncover some feelings.
Beneath one of America’s largest man-made objects is a dark, painful past. And if the stories are true, it has never truly let go of the world around it.
In this REMASTERED classic episode, we revisit the folklore of tiny, meddlesome creatures. And not only is the narration and soundtrack new, but there’s a whole new bonus story at the end, so don’t miss out.
One of the old and most popular types of folklore throughout history is something that most of us take for granted today. But just how thrilling the stories about it could be…well, few people ever saw that coming.
Today’s REMASTERED edition of a classic Lore episode takes us back to the streets of Richmond, Virginia, where folklore seems to be underneath you everywhere you go. Along with the fresh narration and production, don’t miss the brand new bonus story at the end.
One of the most common types of folklore pops up all over the globe, and has left a trail of questions and theories that stretches back centuries. Let’s shine a light on this terrifying mystery today.
We return to Transylvania, and the reign of the Bloody Countess herself, Elizabeth Bathory. This remastered classic episode features fresh narration and production, along with a brand new bonus story at the end.
One of the most common animals throughout all of history is also the focal point for a world of bizarre and frightening folklore. Today’s journey will cover a lot of ground…and it might get bumpy.
We head back to Clipperton Island for this remastered classic episode, complete with a brand new bonus story at the end, as well as all-new narration and production. Enjoy!
If a community is only as strong as its foundations, then this American city is standing on shaky ground. And the stories that have fallen out of it are as dark as they come.
It’s time to board the Queen Mary for one last journey through its troubled past. This remastered episode features fresh narration and production, as well as a brand new bonus story at the end. Bon voyage!
Our family and where we come from are often core elements of our identity. But as folklore and tragic real life events have made clear over the years, not everything is as simple as it would appear.
This classic haunted house story with a dash of spiritualism was so popular, it became an episode of our television show on Amazon. Today it’s been freshly narrated and produced, and a brand new bonus story has been added to the end. Enjoy!
Humans have never let go of folklore designed to help us find things, even if it seems like it’s from another time, long ago. But in stories about our search for things, it’s possibly to find something a lot more thrilling. Written and produced by Aaron Mahnke, with research by Sam Alberty.
Tucked away in one of the most well-known types of figures in folklore is an idea we can all relate to. But at the same time, its implication has played out in some rather horrifying ways.
Everything falls apart. But that’s a horrifying truth when applied to one specific location in Ohio. Because failure can often lead to tragedy.
There are a lot of strange corners in the world of folklore, but one of the most unusual also tends to fit into our pockets. And the stories surrounding them are beyond chilling.
Some of the darkest moments in history happened in the sweet spot between folklore and science. And if one particular event from Philadelphia has anything to teach us, it’s that moments like that are difficult to accept—and more than a little frightening.