— by Carol Kulminski —

sm spooky

The Spooky Tales with an Orcas Spin have been enjoyed this summer by some residents, but mostly by the many visitors to the island. Everyone who has come to hear Master Storyteller, Antoinette Botsford, is surprised to learn fascinating facts about the original lime kilns on Orcas Island. Antoinette does an amazing job of weaving these tales based on fact and folklore.

Orcas Storyteller Antoinette Botsford regales with island "Ghost Tales" on Wednesdays and Fridays

Orcas Storyteller Antoinette Botsford regales with island “Ghost Tales” on Wednesdays and Fridays

She explains to her audience when there is a difference in fact or fiction. “What I am about to tell you is 100% true,” and then she proceeds to tell a story. Or, “Let me tell you about the time I met Hatchet Annie in the woods,” an embellished story related to Four Winds Camp. Antoinette also shares how since she started these ghost stories, how many people have told her about other stories, like Oscar Day of Day Lake, or an original letter by Alice Rheem, the Lady in Red from Rosario.

There are only 3 weeks left to enjoy these presentations: Wednesdays at 8 p.m. at the Pioneer Museum in Eastsound and Fridays at 5 p.m. at the Crow Valley School House Museum. Tickets for adults are only $10, children $5, and a family of four for $25.

If you live here, don’t miss these Spooky Tales with an Orcas Spin! If you have family or friends visiting, bring them!  You can purchase tickets at the door or call the office at 376-4849.