York is an ancient and historic city located in North Yorkshire, England. One of the most fascinating sites in York is the famous York Minster, a stunning cathedral that dominates the city's skyline. The Minster is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and is home to an impressive collection of stained glass windows. In addition to its architectural splendor, York also has a rich and intriguing history. The city was founded by the Romans in 71 AD and has served as an important cultural and political center throughout the centuries. York was a key stronghold during the Viking invasion in the 9th century and later played a significant role in the War of the Roses in the 15th century.
Images from web – Google Research
The Indians feared witchcraft above all, and the Catholic church took full advantage of those fears but, at the sometime enhanced their own, including the devil himself. The legend arose because weighing down the sod of her grave is a granite slab, which, according to the later stories, was laid down as an attempt to hold down the deceased s body and soul.
York was a key stronghold during the Viking invasion in the 9th century and later played a significant role in the War of the Roses in the 15th century. One of the most mysterious and eerie attractions in York is the York Ghost Walk. This guided tour takes visitors through the dark and narrow streets of the city, sharing spine-chilling tales of ghostly encounters and haunted locations.
The grave of Mary Nasson, the Witch of York ~
Like all states, also Maine has it’s weird and paranormal events throughout history.
When the Spaniards came into the Southwest had the very first Thanksgiving (recorded), some 35 years or more before the Pilgrims’ landed on Plymouth rock.
This is a historical fact that all of Far West Texas and New Mexico residents hold in highest esteem.
Be that as it may be, the English Puritans landed at Plymouth Rock in 1620. Actually, the Pilgrim’s never even referred to the rock and it was not mentioned until about 1715 and then only as a Township boundary.
It’s not specifically important as to who had the first Thanksgiving but what each culture brought with it into the new world.
Of course, the Pilgrim’s brought forth their staunch Protestantism as well as their cultural fears of the unknown. The Spaniards as well and each of these and other cultures were soon influenced by not just their own cultural demons, but influenced also by the cultures they conquered or, came into contact with.
In these areas the Spaniards came into contact with the Pueblo and Zuni tribes who already had their own fear and beliefs in the spiritual world. This mixed with Spanish Catholicism only enhanced various dark beliefs.
The Indians feared witchcraft above all, and the Catholic church took full advantage of those fears but, at the sometime enhanced their own, including the “devil himself.”
With the advent of the English, and eventually German/Dutch migrations into the Easter coast and Pennsylvania, much of fears focused upon “Witch’s” and “witchcraft.”
Were there “Witches” in Salem?
Yes of course, as there have been “Witches” everywhere and in every time.
Were there “Witches” in Maine?
Sure…then and now.
Not by chance, English and European cultures have always believed in witchery, and…they still do.
Among them, there is the alleged famous “Witch of York”, sometimes known as the “White Witch” of York, a term meaning a witch who practiced “white medicine” in other words, who did not do harmful spells.
The old graveyard of York, Maine, dates back to the 17th century. It’s small, sparsely tombstoned, and surrounded by a low stone wall that surround peacefully a shady spot among the historic buildings of the Old York area of the town. Nothing in particular, with the exception that it has this special tenant: the grave of a witch.
Her name was Mary Nasson, and passed away in on August 18, 1774.
She was about 29 years old, had no children, and she had been a successful and respected herbalist in the community. It seems she was also skilled at performing exorcisms.
To memorialize her, her husband Samuel had an image of her carved on the crown of the gravestone. It depicts Mary, or at least her upper half, as a woman with bugged eyes, a thin nose, a slightly upturned mouth, and a humped hairdo. The portrayal is crude naturally for the time, but seems to denote an Afro American young woman.
There’s nothing accidentally evil or disturbing in the image, and the flowing script of her epitaph merely states that she was a loving wife, and that the husband looks forward to when his dust can mingle with hers.
The inscription on the headstone:
“Here liest quite free from Lifes
Distressing Care,
A loving Wife
A tender Parent dear
Cut down in midst of days
As you may see
But – stop – my Grief
I soon shall equal be
when death shall stop my breath
And end my Time
God grant my Dust
May mingle, then, with thine.
Sacred to the memory of Mrs. MARY NASSON, wife of Mr. SAMUEL NASSON, who departed this life Aug. 18th 1774, AEtat 29″.
However, the folks of York say she’s a witch, a legend that popped up decades after Mary’s death.
The legend arose because weighing down the sod of her grave is a granite slab, which, according to the later stories, was laid down as an attempt to hold down the deceased’s body and soul. The story goes that the stone was placed there to keep her from crawling out of her grave, but historians disagree, as these types of stones are pretty common in old New England graves and were used to keep pigs and other cattle away. Whatever the reason for the slab, it is the only one of its kind in the entire cemetery.
Other graves in the Old Burying Ground probably had them as well, but over time they disappeared, probably recycled for building materials, including the wall of the cemetery itself.
In any case, the information sign on the wall of the cemetery lists the usual gamut of historical facts for the place, and even tells the legend of the witch’s grave (including also the real reason why the slab was likely installed).
The grave is locally known as “Witch’s Grave,” and it is reported to be haunted and that the large stone slab emits heat. To add more fire to the legend, crows which frequent the cemetery in the summer are reported to be Mrs. Nasson’s “familiars,” still paying tribute to her.
Either way, Maine has a large following of “witches” many of whom are simply “Wiccans” or Teenage “want a be’s”.
But it seems there is an undertow of the more serious calibers, most of those well entrenched in secret covens, and or through solitary practices, and the surrounding deep dark woods are perfect spots for these individuals as they have been through the ages.
Images from web – Google Research
Did you like it? Share it with your friends!
- Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
- Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
- Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
- Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
- Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
- More
- Click to print (Opens in new window)
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
- Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
- Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
- Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
So, was Mary Nasson a good witch, or a bad witch, or just someone who has an unusual gravestone? Are any of these legends true?
It is said that York is one of the most haunted cities in Europe, and the Ghost Walk offers a unique opportunity to explore this paranormal side of the city. Another popular attraction in York is the Jorvik Viking Centre. This museum provides a fascinating insight into Viking life through interactive exhibits and reconstructed archaeological finds. Visitors can experience the sights, sounds, and even smells of 10th century York as they journey through the reconstructed Viking village. For those interested in a more macabre experience, the York Dungeon is a must-visit. This interactive and immersive attraction brings to life some of York's darkest and bloodiest moments in history. Visitors can expect to be scared, shocked, and entertained as they encounter terrifying characters and experience the gruesome tales of the past. York is also well-known for its impressive city walls, which are the most complete medieval town walls in England. Walking along the walls offers a unique perspective of the city and provides panoramic views of the historic buildings and landmarks. The walls are dotted with picturesque gates, including the famous Micklegate Bar, which was historically the main entrance to the city. In conclusion, York is a city with a rich history, intriguing ghostly tales, and impressive architecture. Whether exploring the towering York Minster, delving into Viking history at the Jorvik Viking Centre, or getting spooked on the Ghost Walk, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this captivating city..
Reviews for "Hidden Treasures at York's Eitch Grave"
1. Anna - 1/5 stars - I found "York eitch grrave" to be incredibly disappointing. The storyline was confusing and poorly developed, making it difficult to follow and engage with the characters. The writing style was also lacking, with grammatical errors and a lack of descriptive language. Overall, I cannot recommend this book as it did not live up to my expectations.
2. Mark - 2/5 stars - I was really looking forward to reading "York eitch grrave" based on the synopsis, but unfortunately, it fell flat for me. The pacing was inconsistent, and the plot felt disjointed, leaving me feeling disconnected from the story and struggling to stay engaged. Additionally, I found the characters to be one-dimensional and their motivations unclear. While the concept was interesting, the execution left much to be desired.
3. Sarah - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for "York eitch grrave," but it ultimately left me feeling unsatisfied. The writing style was confusing, with choppy sentences and a lack of cohesion. The dialogue felt forced and unnatural, making it difficult to invest in the characters' conversations. Furthermore, the plot lacked depth and failed to deliver on its initial promise. Overall, I was disappointed by this book and would not recommend it.
4. Michael - 3/5 stars - "York eitch grrave" had potential, but it ultimately fell short for me. While the concept was intriguing and the world-building had its moments, the execution was lacking. The pacing was inconsistent, with slow periods that made it difficult to maintain interest. Additionally, I found the dialogue to be stilted and the character development to be minimal. Although it had its merits, I was left wanting more from this novel.
5. Emily - 2/5 stars - I had a hard time getting into "York eitch grrave." The writing style was difficult to follow, with frequent shifts in perspective and confusing descriptions. The characters lacked depth, and their actions often seemed random and disconnected from the plot. I also encountered numerous grammatical errors that further detracted from my reading experience. Overall, I struggled to connect with this book and would not recommend it.