The Catskill Chronicle

Story and photos by Carol Montana

NARROWSBURG, NY (October 20, 2013) – Under a clear, dark sky on October 12, the mystery of the disappearance of Joseph Skinner came to life at Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History.

The first-ever Haunted History Lantern Tour combined the story of the first  European murdered in the Upper Delaware River Valley with the tales of Washington Irving and Johnny Cicero Ceasar Darling.

Costumed interpreters held lanterns and led the tours, beginning with the true story of who killed Joseph Skinner told by Sullivan County Historian John Conway.

The blacksmith told a story; there was a visit with the widow Skinner, the story of the Headless Horseman and a tall tale about Johnny Darling.

The King’s Highlanders, an 18th century Scottish pipe and drum band provided music and there was even some dancing by the interpreters.

And every once in a while, a ghostly figure could be seen on the fort’s ramparts.

Following the tours, guests enjoyed cider and donuts, and browsed the gift shop.

Proceeds from the tours benefited The Delaware Company, friends of Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History, a non-profit group dedicated to supporting and promoting the history and historic landmarks of the Upper Delaware.

For more information about the Fort Delaware Museum of Colonial History, call  845-252-6660 or visit http://fortdelawaremuseum.org/.