Elliott O'Donnell
Some Haunted Houses of England & Wales.
"Some Haunted Houses of England & Wales" by Elliott O'Donnell is a collection of ghost stories written in the early 20th century. The book delves into well-authenticated accounts of hauntings across England and Wales, emphasizing first-hand narratives and experiences relayed by witnesses. O'Donnell's background as an investigator in psychical research lends credibility to the stories, which range from eerie encounters to ghostly reconstructions of past tragedies. The opening of the book introduces readers to the author's intention behind compiling these ghostly tales. O'Donnell begins with a preface that outlines his careful selection of stories based on their authenticity and the direct testimonies of those who experienced them. He stresses that his accounts differ from the commonly retold tales, as they feature lesser-known hauntings in ordinary settings rather than famous locations. The initial story he presents involves a chilling encounter at the Green Bank Hotel, where a guest witnesses a ghostly race between a Cavalier and a Roundhead that culminates in a horrifying murder, demonstrating O'Donnell's skill in blending historical context with supernatural elements.