History and Hauntings of the Halloween Capital

By Roxy Orcutt

Discover how a Minnesota river town became a center of Halloween tradition and ghost stories. In History and Hauntings of the Halloween Capital, Roxy Orcutt traces Anoka's claim to the title "The Halloween Capital of the World" and explores the people, places, and events behind it. The account follows the town from its early history and troublesome Halloween pranks to George Green's role in organizing the first community celebration in 1920. It also visits local landmarks where residents and workers report unexplained activity, including Forest Hills Cemetery, the Jackson Hotel, and Colonial Hall.

Drawing on local records, ghost-tour stories, and Orcutt's own experiences, this engaging work brings Anoka's past into view without losing sight of its eerie reputation. Readers learn how the celebration took shape, what makes the town's history distinctive, and why stories of spirits remain part of local life. From the Gray Ghost to accounts connected with Dr. Flora Aldrich, Anoka's past raises a question that still lingers: what keeps its former residents here?

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0878397744
• ISBN13: 9780878397747
• Release Date: September 2014
• Publisher: North Star Press of St. Cloud
• Length: 116 Pages
• Weight: 0.69 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.9" x 9.0"