Doheny Mansion Tour | GHOULA Member Meet-Up! August 28th

FRIDAY NIGHT FRIGHT NIGHT

Where: Greystone Park (map)
When: Friday, Aug. 28th, 7:30pm-10:00pm
Admission: $15 per person (SOLD OUT!)

Wear your buttons!

GHOST(S):

Although the Greystone Estate (a.k.a "the Doheny Mansion") is probably best known as a location for hundreds of movies, TV shows, commercials, and print ads, it was also the site of one of Southern California's greatest solved (but really unsolved) mysteries. Ned Doheny and his personal assistant (and closest friend), Hugh Plunkett, were found dead (each with a bullet hole in their head) on February 16, 1929 in one of the guest rooms of this stately manor.

At the time, Plunkett and Doheny (along with President Warren G. Harding and Ned's father, oil tycoon Edward Doheny) were embroiled in the infamous "Teapot Dome" bribery scandal, so the sudden death of these two co-conspirators was big news at the time. The official story (as reported in the newspapers of the day) is that Plunkett went crazy one night and murdered his employer, and then turned the gun on himself. The reasons given for Plunkett's psychotic episode have ranged from a salary dispute to his recent divorce. (His ex-wife, incidentally, was an out-spoken believer of the paranormal.)

The homicide detective who arrived at the scene, Leslie T. White, later wrote an autobiography entitled "Me, Detective," in which he devoted a chapter to the injustice of the Doheny investigation. In addition to waiting a couple of hours before calling the police, the family (with help from the family's doctor) apparently staged the scene of the crime and the placement of the bodies as well as tried to disguise the time of death (which all contradicted the blood and bullet evidence). A proper investigation was never conducted. Despite the obvious tampering and the "rehearsed" eye-witness testimony from the family's housekeeping staff, the case was closed, and the bodies were immediately cremated (even though this practice was contrary to the family's religious beliefs). Over the decades there have been many theories and rumors surrounding this case. Whatever happened that rainy night (regardless of "official" reports) remains a true mystery.

It is these unanswered questions of this tragedy that most likely are at the heart of this historic house's haunting. Why else would the apparition of a man be seen walking the halls outside the scene of the crime? Is it the ghost of Ned Doheny, or is it Hugh Plunkett? Why does a pool of blood appear (then disappear) on the floor of room where the murders supposedly happened. Why just one pool of blood when there were two victims. Who's blood is it? And more importantly, what are the manifestations trying to tell us?

When visiting this landmark building and gardens, keep your eyes open. Any paranormal experience you have may provide the missing clue that finally solves this forgotten case, and ultimately allows the troubled ghosts of the Doheny Mansion the peace they deserve.


(a illustrated recreation of "murder/suicide" created for the L.A. Times)

For more info:
http://www.beverlyhills.org/attractions/greystone/friday_night_fright_nights.asp

REAL GHOSTS with REEL GHOSTS

THE DATE: August 21, 22 (Fri & Sat)

THE TIME: 9:25 pm

THE PLACE: The New Beverly Cinema (7165 W. Beverly Blvd.) map
THE MOVIE: Blithe Spirit (1945)

THE ADMISSION PRICE: $7.00

This is your chance to see this movie about ghosts in an actual haunted theater!

The New Beverly Cinema is said to be the home of a phantom projectionist, and an audience member apparition... (read more)

August's SWS Highlights

Thanks to the small, but loyal, group that braved the many obstacles created by the Downtown Art Walk to see the historic King Edward Saloon. When this event was planned, it was thought that the Art Walk would entice many people, who would otherwise be squeamish about going into L.A.'s Skid Row to visit one of the oldest bars in this city. Little did we know, that this "bad" part of town would be crawling with thousands of art lovers, making traffic (vehicular and pedestrian) and parking impossible.

That said, the few that made it through the hordes of bodies, where treated to the many unusual moments created by the unique space, including a random patron buying our group a round of drinks for no apparent reason, another anonymous patron charging his cell phone in the outlet near our table, forcing us to tap on the glass of the "smoker's chamber" every time his phone rang. For those who have never been to this bar, there is a smoke-filled, adjoining glass room where smoking is allowed.

In addition, our group was treated to some great ghost stories from Craig's recent visit to Riverside's very strange and Gothic Mission Inn.

A ghoul time was had by all.

(to read about the SPIRITS of this location...)

August's SPIRITS with SPIRITS

GHOULA meets for cocktails in haunted places on the 13th of each month. “SPIRITS with SPIRITS” is a casual gathering of regional ghost hunters. Open to all, from the curious skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. Make friends, and toast a ghost! Let's put the “Boo!” back into “booze.” All those who attend will receive a free G.H.O.U.L.A. button. If you already have, please wear it so others can find you.

THE DATE: August 13th, 2009 (Thursday)
THE PLACE: The King Edward Saloon
(121 E 5TH St @ Los Angeles St.) map
THE TIME: 8pm to the witching hour

THE GHOST(S):

The King Edward Saloon, a.k.a. The King Eddy Saloon, a.k.a. The King Edward Bar, just might be the oldest bar in Los Angeles (despite Coles's claims), opening their doors for business in 1906. President Theodore Roosevelt (when staying at the adjoining hotel) is said to have frequented this bar after hours (for his safety). Though there have been many changes in the neighborhood, and Prohibition (when its operation moved into the basement), this tavern has endured. It also remains the last survivor of the fabled "skid row bars" of Los Angeles.

This historic bar (even if it is mostly ignored and forgotten) occupies the South-East corner of the even more historic King Edward Hotel, designed by Parkinson and Berstorm (Parkson later designed many L.A. landmarks, including Union Station, City Hall, and Bullocks Wilshire). When this building first opened, it not only proudly boasted that all the materials that went into the construction orginated from Los Angeles, but that due to its unique design was "absolutely fire-proof."

Those features aside, this saloon has another reason to brag. It is home to one of the great archetypal ghosts of America, the "vanishing hitchhiker." This apparition/urban legend has been seen in some form all over the United States (the most famous one being "Resurrection Mary" outside of Chicago), and even locally different versions of this story have been connected to the San Fernando Mission and Mulhulland Drive.

The Kind Eddy's version of this tale is that an awkward woman (possibly inebriated) introduces herself to a male patron at closing, and asks for a ride to her home in the Belvedere Garden section of East Los Angeles. The man, either with the best or worst intentions, agrees and even offers his coat to the shivering woman. On route, she demands that the driver pull over at the Evergreen Cemetery, where she mysteriously jumps out of the car and disappears into the dark grave yard. When the driver goes to look for her (and his jacket), he finds that she has completely vanished into thin air. As he leaves, he notices his jacket draped over a tombstone bearing the same name as the one she gave.

Is this ghost story a true haunting? Is it just another urban legend? Or, is it a hoax perpetuated by a woman with a sick sense of humor? Go to the the King Edward Saloon and find out for yourself.

"Ah well, the hell with you Camilla. I can forget you. I have money. These streets are filled with things you cannot give me. So down to Main Street and to Fifth Street, to the long dark bars, to the King Edward Cellar, and there a girl with yellow hair and sickness in her smile."

--John Fante (from Ask The Dusk, 1939)

(to see last month's SPIRITS with SPIRITS location...)

Annual Marilyn Monroe Memorial

2009 Marilyn Monroe Annual Memorial Service

Date: August 5, 2009 (Wednesday)

Time: 11:00 am

Place: Westwood Memorial Park,

1218 Glendon Avenue, Westwood, CA 90024 (map)

Tucked away in a small cemetery, which in itself, is fittingly tucked away behind a movie theater, sits the crypt of Marilyn Monroe. Since this blonde bombshell is one of the most ubiquitous ghosts in Hollywood (along side the ghost of silent screen star Rudolf Valentino), it makes perfect sense that her final resting place would also be counted as one of the many places said to be haunted by the spirit of this larger than life sex symbol. Although, her famous form (said to be the inspiration for the Coke's trademarked bottle) has never been seen at this location, witnesses have claimed that a strange fog sometimes appears around her pink-stained marble marker.

So, come out and celebrate the life (and after-life) of one of the silver screen's most unique stars.

For More Info:

http://themarilynmonroecollection.blogspot.com/2009/06/2009-marilyn-monroe-memorial-service.html

GHOSTBUSTERS Screening!

Date: August 1s, 2009

Place: Circuit City Lot
(Sunset Blvd. near Hollywood/Hillhurst, Silverlake) map

Admission: "Almost Free" ($5.00 suggested donation)

The Biltmore Hotel, the Central Library, and Dan Ackroyd's former residence are just a few of the local locations that have a connection with this comedy classic. (read more)

July's SWS Highlights

Thanks to all that came out. And a special thanks to The Cat & Fiddle Pub for all of their hospitality. Not only did they go above and beyond accommodating our large group, but many of the staff shared old photos, their fond memories of the former owner, Kim Gardner, and their own personal ghost stories, adding to the ones already posted, including...

---A dark figure seen in shadows of the doorway at the north/east end of the courtyard (where the patio gate meets the wall). This apparition is thought to be the energy of a man, who accidentally fell to his death from the second floor, while trying to scale the side of the building. The reason for this fool-hearty stunt is unknown.

---The spirit Kim Gardner, who has been strongly felt in a private room opposite the Casablanca Room (on the other end of the bar). This room was used during his life as a "family room" of sorts, where friends and relatives could relax. An informal wake for Mr. Gardner was held in this room after his death, and during the remembrances, a free-standing light apparently turned on by itself, shined very brightly, and then fell over, smashing the bulb. It is also in this room, that late at night, when locking up, people have seen feet pacing back and forth through the space under the door, despite no one being in that room when the door is opened.

We also heard a variation of the gangster ghost's story, in which instead of his body being pulled into a back room to be dealt with later, it was dragged into the alley and put with the bags of trash to be hauled away since there is a door in that room that leads to the back alley (which is said to be the entrance Roy Rogers used when dining with his horse).

Thanks again, to everyone that made it a great and unique night!

(to read about the SPIRITS of this location...)

July's SPIRITS with SPIRITS

GHOULA meets for cocktails in haunted places on the 13th of each month. “SPIRITS with SPIRITS” is a casual gathering of regional ghost hunters. Open to all, from the curious skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. Make friends, and toast a ghost! Let's put the “Boo!” back into “booze.”

All those who attend will receive a free G.H.O.U.L.A. button. If you already have, please wear it so others can find you.

THE DATE: July 13th, 2009 (Monday)
THE PLACE: The Cat and Fiddle Pub (6350 Sunset Blvd.) map
THE TIME: 8pm to the witching hour

THE GHOST(S):

This complex of Mediterranean/Spanish facades facing an inner courtyard first opened its doors to the public in October of 1927 and was designed by the architectural team of Gogerty and Weyl, who thanks largely to this "shopping court," the Blaine Building (6601 Hollywood Blvd.), and the Hollywood Playhouse (1735 N. Vine St.) became nationally recognized as the authorities on this unique style of regional architecture that is synonymous with Southern California.

Over the decades, the space that The Cat And Fiddle Pub now occupies has been home to many restaurants, including a commissary for a nearby studio and the famous Mouling's Mandarin/Shanghai-style restaurant, where one could have the undisputed best "Peking Duck" in town while listening to "Mr. Tahiti" tickle the ivories at the piano bar. Although, the names and owners have changed with each era, one thing has remained the same since the beginning. For whatever reason (perhaps the Gogerty and Weyl design), this restaurant/bar space has always been a place where the wealthy and the working class feel comfortable lounging for hours over a couple of drinks (especially on warm summer nights). Not only does that casual condition continue to the current "Cat and Fiddle," but is at the root of their longest lingering "lamentor of life."

The apparition of a well-dressed man has been seen many times in "The Casablanca Room." The room, itself, received its name because of the restaurant's role in the Humphrey Bogart classic film, (who incidentally was a frequent guest of the restaurant when it was called "Le Gourmet"). However, unconnected to "Casablanca" or Bogart, legend has it that during one of this restaurant's previous incarnations, a group of local mobsters were having a dinner party in that room when one of the guests opened fire and murdered another guest in front of the other diners. Not wanting to spoil a good time, the victim's bloody body was dragged into a back room, and the dinner party continued leisurely into the night as if nothing had happened. It is said that although the body was removed, his spirit has never left (maybe eternally reliving those last unsuspecting moments before death).

In addition to this mob-hit manifestation, employees of the "Cat and Fiddle" claim that after hours when the patrons have left, they hear the distinctive sound of a set of keys jingling in the restaurant, and yet, upon exploration, can never find the source of this phantom sound. Those that knew the beloved former owner, Kim Gardner (an unsung rock musician/artist of the "British Invasion"), before his passing in October of 2001 believe it is his spirit still keeping an eye on the successful tavern that he helped create. Or, maybe in death, like the other ghost, and like the "Cat and Fiddle's" clientele, he just enjoys hanging out and listening to one of the "best" jukeboxes in the city in one of the great landmarks of old Hollywood.

http://www.thecatandfiddle.com/

(to read about more ghosts at this location...)

(to see last month's SPIRITS with SPIRITS location...)

GHOST COMICS @ The Skirball

Happy 4th of July from your friends at GHOULA. On this day that we celebrate the creation of the United States. Let's stop a moment and give a patriotic "thank you" to another great creation, one of America's favorite fictional "phantoms" from another realm, THE GHOST RIDER. Although the idea of a "ghost rider" appeared in several early comic books published by Marvel Comics, including a super-natural cowboy using the moniker "The Ghost Rider," the most famous incarnation was created in the 1970's which depicted a motorcycle stuntman who made a bad deal with the devil, cursing him to periodically change from his human form into a creature with a flaming skull that was literally hell on wheels. Technically speaking the "ghost rider" is not actually a "ghost," but more of a zombie-werewolf hybrid.

That said, in addition to this super-natural super-hero's ties to the South-West in the comic, this character may also have its roots in our regional ghost mythology. The old west is littered with legends of "ghost riders" and phantom cowboys. The most famous of them being the "riders in the sky" where the ghosts of damned cowboys (running from the devil) appear in the clouds above a troubled cowboy as a warning of that individual's possible future if he doesn't clean up his act. This cowboy legend was made famous by the chart-topping hit song "Riders in the Sky" written by Stan Jones, which in addition to its many cover versions by country and rock musicians (and its appearance in the GHOST RIDER movie), it was also the inspiration for the song "Riders on the Storm" by the quintessential L.A. band, The Doors.

More specifically however, there is another local ghost seen throughout California since the 1950's that bears a strong resemblance to the tortured hero of the GHOST RIDER comic. There is said to be a headless motorcyclist (the west coast equivalent to the east coast's "Headless Horseman") that roams the back highways and small town main streets of this great state. Although there are many versions of the origin of this ghost, like its comic book counter part, it also appears to be battling its own demons, as evidenced by the frequent sighting of this speeding spirit ripping past the church doors at Mission San Buenaventura in Ventura County.

G.H.O.U.L.A., as protectors of local lore, on this day salutes THE GHOST RIDER.

To see original original art work from the earlier incarnation of GHOST RIDER (back when he really was a phantom cowboy), there is an excellent exhibit at the Skirball called ZAP! POW! BAM! The Superhero: The Golden Age of Comic Books, 1938–1950 (through August 9, 2009).

Where: The Skirball (http://www.skirball.org/)
Admission Price: $10 General
$7 Seniors 65+ and Full-Time Students
$5 Children 2-12
Free to Children under 2 and Skirball Members
All exhibitions are free to the public on Thursdays

GHOSTBUSTERS Screening!

Date: July 22, 2009
Place: Century City's Movies on the Terrace
(10250 Santa Monica Blvd.) map


The Biltmore Hotel, the Central Library, and Dan Ackroyd's former residence are just a few of the local locations that have a connection with this comedy classic. (read more)

GHOULA SKOOLA

DATE: June 22, 2009 (tonight)
TIME: 8:00 pm
PLACE: Pilippe's Original
(1001 N Alameda St,Los Angeles, CA 90012) map

Class is now in session.

Some have expressed interest in getting together outside of our general events to discuss topics in more detail, as well as fill gaps in their general ghost knowledge. It has been suggested that GHOULA start an informal phantom forum for such a purpose.

So, your Friends at GHOULA have partnered up with The High Priestess RaVen, a fourth generation medium, who is based in Los Angeles, and will moderate these seminars. It is our hope that each gathering will feature a specific topic and a a guest speaker to discuss this topic.

Since this is our inaugural GHOULA SKOOLA, there will be not set agenda, instead we wish that everyone in attendence to voice there wishes for this program, as well as get to know our Moderater, RaVen.

So, if there are any questions you want to ask a psychic ghost investigator, now is your chance.

For more info:
RaVen ( http://www.majickgoddess.com/)
Philippe's (http://www.philippes.com/)
Philippe's Haunted History
(October 13th: Spirits with Spirits at Philippes th... )

GHOSTBUSTERS Screening

Date: June 19, 2009
Place: Los Angeles Film Festival (Broxton Ave.)


The Biltmore Hotel, the Central Library, and Dan Ackroyd's former residence are just a few of the local locations that have a connection with this comedy classic. (read more)

Highlights form June's SWS

Thank you to all those that braved the freeways to come out to the Queen Mary on the 13th, and sorry to those that came out and couldn't find someone with a GHOULA button in the bar. Give the macabre beauty of this local landmark, and the maze-like network of creepy halls, stairwells, and decks, it was difficult keeping people to stay in that one room (which for some bizarre reason was filled with visiting belly-dancers).

Although no one seemed to have a ghostly encounter (as in a full manifestation), there were a couple of incidents that may be worth noting. A couple of F.O.G.'s (Friends of Ghoula), independantly discovered black stains on their palms while exploring the ship. Assuming it was grease or brass polish (from holding the hand rails), they continued their separate tours, and never gave the mysterious smudges another thought.

The next day, GHOULA recieved an email from someone, who while researching the ghost stories of the Queen Mary (later that night), came across a story concerning the ghost of John Pedder. Some say that this ghost (who used to be a mechanic for the ship) sometimes reaches out and touches guests of the Queen Mary, as evidenced by unexplained black grease stains on a person's hands or face. Did John Pedder make contact with us that night? Only John Pedder knows for sure.

(to read about the SPIRITS of this location...)

REEL GHOSTS with REAL GHOSTS

THE DATE: June 12th (Friday)
THE TIME: Midnight
THE PLACE: The Silent Movie Theater (611 N. Fairfax Ave.) map
THE MOVIE: Hausu (1977)
THE PRICE: $10.00

Come out and see a movie about ghosts in an actual haunted theater!

The Silent Movie Theater is said to be the home of a phantom projectionist and a disappearing/reappearing blood stain in the lobby... (read more)

June's SPIRITS with SPIRITS

GHOULA meets for cocktails in haunted places on the 13th of each month. “SPIRITS with SPIRITS” is a casual gathering of regional ghost hunters. Open to all, from the curious skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. Make friends, and toast a ghost! Let's put the “Boo!” back into “booze.” All those who attend will receive a free G.H.O.U.L.A. button. If you already have, please wear it so others can find you.

THE DATE: June 13th, 2009 (Saturday)
THE PLACE: The Observation Bar (map)
(The Queen Mary, 1126 Queen's Highway, Long Beach)
THE TIME: 9pm to the witching hour

THE GHOSTS:

Before the mighty Queen Mary was dubbed "the most haunted ship in the world," it, ironically, had another spooky nickname, "The Grey Ghost." It was called this because of the temporary gray paint job it had during its brief wartime service as a means to transport soldiers quickly back-and-forth across the Atlantic Ocean. Luckily for locals, this historic boat is now permanently docked in Long Beach where it has made the smooth transition from luxury liner to luxury hotel.

Its history and ghosts stories have been well-documented in numerous books and TV shows. It is said that this stately ship may have over a hundred different ghosts on board. The notable sea-worthy spirits include the ghost of John Pedder (a.k.a. "The Shaft Alley Specter"), who was crushed to death in water-tight door no. 13 during a routine drill, and the spirit of Senior Second Officer W.E. Stark, who accidentally poisoned himself when he mistook carbon tecrachloride for gin. Also, there are phantoms of men in overalls, uniformed staff, formally dressed dinner guests, tuxedoed partiers, women in bathing suits, soldiers, children, a former switch-board operator, a woman dressed in white, a woman in a mini-skirt, a 1940's woman, and the victims of a knife-wielding maniac. There are disembodied voices, the sounds of laughter and children playing, footsteps that echo down empty halls, and the sorrowful moans and cries of the 338 soldiers who drowned during a tragic collision with another vessel.

That said, what makes this haunted location of real interest is the management's willingness to use ghosts to promote their unique hotel. In the beginning, the Queen Mary offered flashlight-lit expeditions into the abandon bowels of the ship. Over the years, that simple premise has evolved into elaborate walk-thru environments with theatrical lighting and special effects that rival Disneyland's dark rides. Plus, every October, the ship is converted into an old fashioned "Spook House" attraction to scare the local teenagers. In addition, plaques have been placed around the decks and other public places informing guests of locations where ghosts have been seen, a ghost guide is available in the gift shop, and the hotel hosts an event entitled "Dining with the Spirits," where guests are given a tour of the haunted spots after a gourmet dinner. There is even a 24-hour "ghost-cam" set up to capture any activity in their extremely haunted indoor pool area that can be accessed on-line. This is one place that seems to have worked all of the apparition angles.

Perhaps one day, these inspired ghostly gimmicks will serve as a model for other local hotels, who discourage any connection to the super-natural. Until that day (or until the management changes their minds), the Queen Mary is the greatest "paranormal playground" in the world.

http://www.queenmary.com/

(to see last month's SPIRITS with SPIRITS location...)

Highlights from May's SPIRITS with SPIRITS

Mixing ice cream and beer is not for the tender-hearted. Years ago "Ben & Jerry's" introduced a beer flavored ice cream that flopped in the marketplace. Perhaps it would have been more successful if they sold it at a haunted location like Los Angeles' historic Farmer's Market. Ghosts make everything taste better.

(to read about the SPIRITS of this location...)

May's SPIRITS with SPIRITS

GHOULA meets for cocktails in haunted places on the 13th of each month. “SPIRITS with SPIRITS” is a casual gathering of regional ghost hunters. Open to all, from the curious skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. Make friends, and toast a ghost! Let's put the “Boo!” back into “booze.”

All those who attend will receive a free G.H.O.U.L.A. button. If you already have, please wear it so others can find you.

THE DATE: May 13th, 2009 (Wednesday)
THE PLACE: E.B.’s Beer and Wine

(West Patio, Farmer’s Market, 6333 W. 3rd St.)
THE TIME: 7pm to 9pm

GHOST(S):

The “Gilmore Island” at the corner of Third and Fairfax has gone through many changes in the last 100 years. Over those decades, it has been home to a dairy, an oil field, a baseball stadium, a race track, a police department, a post office, a bank, a public library, a car-hop restaurant, a residential neighborhood, the amazing Pan Pacific Auditorium, a drive-in movie theater, television studios, an antique mall, a community park, and the entertainment/shopping complex known as “The Grove.”

Legend has it that this place even inspired “The Beverly Hillbillies” TV show at CBS (next door). Apparently, Arthur Gilmore accidentally struck oil while digging a well for water. It is also said that this was the last place James Dean ate in Los Angeles before beginning the road trip that would end his life. Speaking of last meals, a security guard confidentially told GHOULA that a large number of old people die every year while visiting (and dining at) this location.

However, this land is most famous for its “Farmer Market,” which began in 1934, when a group a farmers parked their trucks at this intersection and began selling their fresh produce to the passing traffic. Gilmore, never one to miss a trick, created a parking lot with chalk lines and charged each farmer a small rent. Within the year, the first structure (with electricity and running water) went up when Blanch Magee began selling prepared food at the site. One by one, the produce trucks were replaced by the collection of booths that stand today. To get an idea of what those original stalls looked like go to Gill’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream which opened in 1937, and has the distinction of being the only booth that has never remodeled over the years.

Given this vendor’s history, it is not surprising, there is a story connected to Gill’s involving a short, bald man dressed all in white (with a hair-net), who has been seen by diners standing at the counter as if to order an ice cream cone. Then, on second glance, he vanishes. His identity and history are unknown.

Elsewhere on the property is a structure even older than Gill’s. Hidden from the public (near the massive parking structure) still stands an adobe home built in 1852. It is said to be haunted by the spirit of Earl Gilmore who lived there until 1964 when he died in the very same room (and bed) he was born in.

It is also worth mentioning that a local ghost hunting club (now defunct) many years ago used to hold their monthly meetings at the historic Farmer’s Market. Any further stories, or evidence, they may have uncovered has (at present) been sadly lost. Perhaps, those attending this month’s SPIRITS with SPIRITS can carry on in their phantom-following footsteps.

(to see last month's SPIRITS with SPIRITS location...)

Highlights from April's SPIRITS with SPIRITS

Thanks to all that came out that chilly Monday night. Many new faces, and many new ghost stories. It doesn't appear that anyone had a ghostly encounter with the spirits of the Eden Grill. All the same, it is interesting that everyone there (GHOULA and non-GHOULA) chose to sit outside in the cold, leaving the warm (but haunted) dinning room completely empty. Coincidence? You decide.


(to read about the SPIRITS of this location...)

April 13th: SPIRITS with SPIRITS at The Eden Garden Bar & Grill

GHOULA meets for cocktails in haunted places on the 13th of each month. “SPIRITS with SPIRITS” is a casual gathering of regional ghost hunters. Open to all, from the curious skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. Make friends, find ghosts! Come see the hot spots with “cold spots” and put the “Boo!” back into “booze.”

All those who attend will receive a free G.H.O.U.L.A. button. If you already have, please wear it so others can find you.

THE DATE: April 13th, 2009 (Monday)
THE PLACE: The Eden Garden Bar & Grill (175 E. Holly St., Pasadena) map
THE TIME: 8pm to the Witching Hour

THE GHOST(S):

Built in the 1920’s, this gothic church-like building began life as a mortuary and funeral home, and was the home of “Turner & Stevens Co.” whose motto was “serving over 36,000 families since 1895.” Today, one can get service of another kind (namely table service) in this same “den of death.” Ironically, one of Pasadena’s best gourmet restaurants operates in the room that used to the garage/carriage house where the hearse was kept. This may explain why customers over the years have heard the sounds of a horse’s spirit residing in this space. Also, the ghost of an African-American worker in overalls and a yellow shirt has been spotted in the back of the restaurant adjacent to the restrooms. Some claim this playful phantom prankster is also responsible for locking the door to the ladies’ room, and trapping its female occupants

But, the apparitional activity in this restaurant is just the tip of this building’s “cold spot” ice-berg. The whole brick and stone structure (which houses other businesses) is known to be very haunted with disembodied whispers and phantom footsteps heard all over the building. The ghost of a scantily-dressed prostitute has been seen, as well as a vanishing red-headed little girl. Perhaps the strangest phenomenon associated with this building is the “rotting corpse odor” that some say materializes in the basement near the vaults where the deceased were stored decades ago.

Though never proven, there is a legend that an illegal “speak-easy” operated out of the building, using the funeral home as its cover. Furthermore, it is said that an urn containing the ashes of a former Pasadena mayor, who crossed the local gangsters, and then went missing, was found in the walls during a remodel. If there is any truth to these rumors, who knows how many victims met similar fates? And likewise, who knows how many ill-fated ghosts there really are in this historic landmark?

http://www.edengardenbarandgrill.com/

(to see last month's SPIRITS with SPIRITS location...)

GHOSTBUSTERS Screening!

The Biltmore Hotel, the Central Library, and Dan Ackroyd's former residence are just a few of the local locations that have a connection with this comedy classic. (read more)

Then, go see the movie tonight at the Arclight Cinema in Hollywood. map

For an overall map of these locations click here.

Highlights from March's Spirits with Spirits

Great turn out for this event,... I think. Since the bar was packed, it was hard to tell who was there for the spirits and who was there for the “spirits.” Regardless, everyone (living and otherwise) seemed to have a merry ole time.

(to read about the SPIRITS of this location...)

March 13th: SPIRITS WITH SPIRITS at Tom Bergin's

GHOULA meets for cocktails in haunted places on the 13th of each month. “SPIRITS with SPIRITS” is a casual gathering of regional ghost hunters. Open to all, from the curious skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. Make friends, find ghosts! Come see the “hot spots” with “cold spots.”

All those who attend will receive a free G.H.O.U.L.A. button. If you already have, please wear it so others can find you.

THE DATE: March 13th, 2009 (Friday)

THE PLACE: Tom Bergin’s Tavern (840 S. Fairfax) map

THE TIME: 8pm to the Witching Hour

THE GHOST(S):

Although the name and location of this restaurant has changed since they first opened their doors in 1936, from “Tom Bergin’s Old Horse Shoe Tavern and Thoroughbred Club” (on Wilshire) to “Tom Bergin’s Horse Shoe Tavern” (on Fairfax) to just simply “Tom Bergin’s” (still Fairfax), the famous “horse shoe-shaped” bar that started it all has remained exactly the same. So much so, that at the time of the big move (just a couple of blocks away), loyal customers personally carried the bar (in one piece with the 17 benches attached) just to make sure nothing changed.

“Tom Bergin’s” has achieved immortality for two important contributions to American culture. First, in early 1950's, it became one of the first establishments in the USA to serve “Irish Coffee,” and secondly, the place served as the inspiration, both in look and feel, for TV’s “Cheers.” The character of "Coach” was even modeled after Head Bartender Chris Doyle. Indeed, “Tom Bergin’s” was the original “place where everyone knows your name” as evidenced by the ritual of placing faithful customers’ names on large shamrocks that hang over the bar.

In Ireland, legends of leprechauns, fairies, and banshees are common place, so it is only fitting that Los Angeles’ oldest Irish Pub has its own share of tales to tell. The figure of a woman has been known to walk through the bar area only to vanish moments later, while a mysterious man has also been known to disappear before one’s eyes near the fireplace in the restaurant. Are these two spirits connected to each other? And, who is responsible for the mischievous movement of objects late at night when the customers have left? Could it be a third ghost? If all this seems too disturbing, take comfort in the knowledge there are no leprechauns running around the bar… or are there?

http://www.tombergins.com/

(to see last month's SPIRITS with SPIRITS location...)

REAL GHOSTS WITH REEL GHOSTS

THE DATE: March 8^th (Sunday)

THE TIME: 8pm
THE PLACE: The Silent Movie Theater (611 N. Fairfax Ave.) map

THE MOVIE: The Haunted Castle (1921)

THE PRICE: $10.00

Come out and see this movie about ghosts in an actual haunted theater!

The Silent Movie Theater is said to be the home of a phantom projectionist and a disappearing/reappearing blood stain in the lobby... (read more)

Highlights from Feb 2009 Spirits with Spirits at Union Station

GHOULA would like to thank the employees that finally shared their ghost story. It seems there is the spirit of a military man who stands (apparently waiting) in the North courtyard outside the main waiting room. Eventhough his uniform is generic, it is thought that he is from the era of World War II. Also, staff have heard strange moaning sounds outside of the North East part of the station. Could this be the echos of a long ago murder that took place there when the area was Chinatown? We would like to propose another theory. Our city's first "lover's lane" was roughly located in that location, so perhaps those moans are another activity all together.

We would also like to thank the good people at Los Angeles’ main Train transportation hub for the impromptu tour of the abandon New Jersey commuter train on the normally inaccessible Track 13, and for letting us commandeer these sad, forgotten rail cars for the night.


I have heard it said that there is nothing as lonely as a train whistle in the distance. That may be true, but there is also nothing as eerie as an empty train in the moonlight. Thank you, Union Station. A ghoul time was had by all.


Apologies to those who showed up to the bar (i.e. that means you Jim and Cybele) and missed the great train exploration of 2009. Welcome new member Dave Melrose! Remember, once you attend a GHOULA meeting, you are a member for life, and then some.

(to read about the SPIRITS of this location...)

February Spirits with Spirits at Traxx Bar in Union Station

GHOULA meets for cocktails in haunted places on the 13th of each month. “SPIRITS with SPIRITS” is a casual gathering of regional ghost-hunters. Open to all, from the curios skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. Make friends, find ghosts! Come see all the “hot spots” with “cold spots.”

All those who attend will receive a free GHOULA button. If you have already received your button, please wear it so others can find you.

G.H.O.U.L.A. t-shirts will be available for sale. ($10.00 each)

Union Station began receiving trains in 1939, so be a part of its 70 years of history by taking one of the “light rail” (Red, Gold, Blue, or Purple) options to this deco-destination. Besides avoiding traffic, it will spare you any parking headaches.

THE DATE: February 13th, 2009 (Friday)
THE PLACE: TRAXX Bar (Union Station) map
THE TIME: 8pm to the Witching Hour

THE GHOST(S):

In addition to Union Station being one of the few truly iconic landmarks in Los Angeles (with its unique “mission moderne” design), it has also been one of those locations that members have felt GHOULA should explore. Although, several employees of the station (as well as Amtrak employees) have confessed that it is haunted, GHOULA, through research and interviews, could not get any first-hand accounts from witnesses (or even second-hand accounts). No one was willing to discuss who possibly haunts it (one employee said that management told them not to talk about the ghosts). However, even if these unknown ghost stories are just urban legends, it’s one of those places that should be haunted.

For starters, Union Station was built on the site of the bloodiest riot in this city’s history, in which a Chinese gang war erupted in to a lynch mob that spilled into neighboring communities. When the dust settled, fifteen bodies (some accounts claim as many 19) hung from the trees along Los Angeles Street, near where the entrance to the Union Station stands today. As a result, that dirt road was nicknamed “Hangman’s Street.” Although the legends of catacombs discovered during construction (Indian burial sites, Chinese opium dens, “Lizard People” tunnels, etc.) are apparently not true, the many stories of corpses, folded or in pieces, found in luggage at Union Station are true.

The most famous occurrence of trunks dripping blood involved Winnie Ruth Judd, the infamous “Tiger Woman” of Los Angeles (a.k.a. the “Velvet Tigress” to avoid confusion with the two other notorious local killers also given the nickname the “Tiger Woman”). In addition, the murderer of “Lower 13” was arrested on the platforms as he and his slashed victim rolled into Union Station (perhaps on the now-closed track 13, whose walled-in gateway can still be seen).

On top of all of that, the area near Union Station's baggage claim, was at one time this city's "lover's lane," where all kinds of illicit behavior took place. But the most “spirit-inducing” piece of strange history connected to the station doesn’t involve anything scandalous or macabre.

Union Station’s abandon (but preserved) “restaurant” had the good fortune to be designed by visionary architect Mary Jane Colter. Although notable for creating spaces that fuse Spanish and Native-American influences, she was also fascinated with the supernatural. She used to try to build places that felt like they had history, places where ghosts would feel comfortable. Two of her most famous commissions “The Ghost House” and “Phantom Ranch” reflect that spirit. It is not surprising that most of the locations she created have ghost stories attached to them. Thus, maybe the reason why no one will discuss Union Station's spirits is because they are locked up in the room where “ghosts feel comfortable,” and everyone wants them left undisturded.

http://www.traxxrestaurant.com/
(to read more about the ghosts of Union Station...)
(to see last month's SPIRITS with SPIRITS location...)

Highlights from Jan 2009 Spirits with Spirits at Mel's Diner

The spirits were against us. Or were they?

Water, sometimes known for its connection to paranormal activity, was to blame for our disastrous meeting. Due to a busted underground pipe, water service for Hollywood Blvd. was shut off. Musso and Frank’s Grill was forced to cancel dinner service and close their doors. GHOULA marched up and down “the boulevard of broken dreams” for an alternative haunted venue, but all other bars (ghostly or not) in the vicinity were also forced to close as well.

Tired and weary, GHOULA eventually had to settle for Mel’s Diner, located in the historic Max Factor Building and make due with rounds of sodas and milkshakes instead of the traditional cocktails. The strange turn of events however did not dampen the spirits of those that stayed. There were ghost stories a plenty from new members as well as an in depth discussion/debate of the nature of “orbs” in photos.

The surprise guest of the evening was Steve Cohen (pictured above with the "13" tattoo on his wrist), the owner of Larchmont’s Village Pizzeria, who joined our discussion while waiting for a take-out order. It turns out that in addition to his passion for creating great pizza, he also has a passion for the number 13, which seems to invade his life from all angles. So, you can imagine his interest and delight encountering a group of people that meet every 13th of the month.



(to read about the SPIRITS of our intended location...)

January 13th: Spirits with Spirits at Musso & Frank's Grill in Hollywood

GHOULA meets for cocktails in haunted places on the 13th of each month. “SPIRITS with SPIRITS” is a casual gathering of regional ghost hunters. Open to all, from the curious skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. Make friends, find ghosts! Come see the “hot spots” with “cold spots.”

All those who attend will receive a free G.H.O.U.L.A. button. If you have already received your button, please wear it so others can find you. Also, G.H.O.U.L.A t-shirts will be available for sale. ($10.00 each).

Musso and Frank’s Grill proudly boasts itself as “the oldest restaurant in Hollywood. How old is it? They first opened their doors in 1919, which means this year the restaurant turns 90 years old. So, come out and join GHOULA as we celebrate this local institution’s milestone of achievement.

THE DATE: January 13th, 2008 (Tuesday)
THE PLACE: Musso and Frank's Grill
(6667 Hollywood Blvd.) map
THE TIME: 8pm to the Witching Hour

THE GHOST(S):

Although just about every movie star one can think of (going back to the silent era) has at one time eaten here, and although the restaurant serves some of the best food in this town (especially their world famous flannel cakes), it is neither the celebrities nor the cuisine that has fascinated literate locals for decades.

For some inexplicable reason, writers (for better or worse) have always been drawn to this location. F. Scott Fitzgerald, William Faulkner, John O’Shea, Dorothy Parker, Dashiel Hammet, Ernest Hemingway, Nathanial West, Bud Schulburg, Jim Thompson, and Charles Bukowski are just some of the writer’s that have been linked to this famous watering hole.

Not only is Musso and Frank’s grill mentioned in Raymond Chandler’s “The Big Sleep,” it is said that the entire book was written between drinks while Chandler sat at the bar (which may explain the famously convoluted nature of his famous mystery novel). So many writers and screenwriters have frequented this place that it is sometimes referred to as “The Algonquin West,” a reference to the east coast’s “Algonquin Round Table” (the center of New York’s literary scene in the 1920s).

Strangely, none of these famous writer’s that ultimately drank their lives away at this location haunt this establishment, instead the ghosts appear to be a collection of famous celebrities that (even more strangely) haunt other local locations as well. The spirits of Errol Flynn (who also haunts his former residence), Lionel Barrymore (who also haunts his former residence), Orson Wells (who also haunts another restaurant in West Hollywood), Carole Lombard (who also haunts the Hotel Roosevelt), and Jean Harlow (who also busily haunts three of her former homes in Beverly Hills) have all been seen at various locations inside this famous upscale eatery.

Apparently, in the after-life, Musso and Frank’s Grill still serves as the “meeting spot” where Hollywood's ecto-elite go to take a break from their normal haunting duties and just relax and mingle with their phantom friends. It’s nice to know that even after death some things never change in Hollywood.

Additionally, there have been rumors that a hidden back room is said to be haunted by spirits connected to an age when that room was supposedly an illegal speak-easy. Interestingly, the restaurant neighboring Musso and Frank's to the West claims that they were the original site of Musso and Frank's before they moved to their current location next door, and as such they claim that their location was where the speak-easy was originally and that it also is haunted by spirits from that age.

http://www.mussoandfrankgrill.com

(to see last month's SPIRITS with SPIRITS location...)

SWS Round Up: Carlito's Way A.K.A. Pair-A-Dice A.K.A. Lucerna A.K.A. The Tender Trap

In one of the most bizarre set of circumstances to date, dedicated GHOULA members, by word of mouth, decided to meet at Carlito's Way Cocktail Lounge in Van Nuys based on local patrons who had captured a series of ghost orbs on the small yet inviting dance floor.

Shortly after introductions were made, GHOULA members discovered that they were in fact in THE TENDER TRAP, the bar which was prominently featured in the film The Twilight Zone (1982), made famous for the tragic decapitation deaths of Vic Morrow (Jennifer Jason Leigh's Father) and two child actors during filming.

Morrow, My-Ca Dinh Le, and Renee Shin-Yi Chen were shooting a scene for the Vietnam sequence; they were running from a pursuing helicopter. The helicopter was flying at a low level when pyrotechnic explosions caused the helicopter to lose control and crash on top of the three. Morrow and Le were both decapitated by the blades; Chen was fatally crushed underneath the helicopter's landing skid. For the full story, click here.

Further conversation revealed Carlito's Way Cocktail Lounge to be the focus of an unsolved America's Most Wanted Crime! In February of 2007, the former owner of the bar, David Weir, shot and killed his girlfriend, and has been on the run ever since. At the time of this death, Carlito's Way was known as LUCERNA. Here is the AMW excerpt:

It was their sophomore year in high school when Victoria Ramirez and David Allen Weir met. While the relationship weathered its share of ups and downs, cops say Weir's drug use and infidelity was finally breaking the pair apart. Victoria told friends that it was over, but before she could break up with Weir, police say he ended things... with murder.

Patrons of the bar told police that the couple was known to argue and fight, sometimes even at Lucerna. On August 5, 2006, the pair arrived for work and alternated between socializing with the bar's patrons and bartending duties. However, it wouldn't be long before casual conversation gave way to another one of the couple's feuds.

Click here for the full story.

LAPD is looking for the public's assistance in locating David Weir. He may be armed and is considered extremely dangerous. Police say Weir was last spotted in San Diego, but since he may have access to his family's fortune, he could be hiding anywhere. So, if you have seen this man, please call John Walsh at 1-800-CRIME-TV.

But back to GHOULA: Guest psychic Lee Barron did sense a death imprint from the seventies on the dance floor adjacent to the dart boards, Mara Holland performed improptu rune readings with great success, and Richard Carradine received first hand accounts (in translation) of La Llorona in which GHOULA members were advised, "If you see her, you better run".

(to read about the SPIRITS of this location...)

GHOULA Annual Report 2008

(Alhambran F.E. Ormsby holding his 13 month calendar, 1929)

Happy New Year!

This year we launched our new monthly meetings called SPIRITS with SPIRITS, where we gather at a different haunted restaurant/bar in greater Los Angeles to discuss all things ghostly.

The SPIRITS with SPIRITS locations of 2008

June - Hotel Roosevelt Lobby Bar

July - El Compadre

August - HMS Bounty

September - Culver Hotel Lobby Bar

October - Philippe the Original

November - Mixville Bar (Edendale Grill)

December - Carlito's Way Cocktail Lounge