Located in London, Ontario and erected in 1830, this building is modelled after Malahide Castle, near Dublin, Ireland. The courthouse is the reputed haunt of Marion "Peg Leg" Brown. Convicted of murdering Constable Michael Toohey, a member of the local Constabulary, he escaped custody, but was later recaptured in Washington State, and sent back to London to have his sentence meted out.
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On May 17th, 1899, "Peg Leg", was escorted to the gallows, where he is said to have repeatedly expressed his innocence of the crime, and twice cursed the courthouse, saying that no grass would ever grow on his grave, and that he would continue to haunt the courthouse, especially on the anniversary of his execution. As for Peg Leg’s former resting place, it was paved over with asphalt - finally realizing the "curse" that no grass would ever grow over his grave.
Nice text by the photo's so we can learn something. Thanks Andy.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great story! Nice pic's, too!
ReplyDeleteSounds like Peg Leg kept his promises! ;))
ReplyDeletePerfect photos and story for Halloween. Well done.
ReplyDeleteWhat a story - I love a good haunted tale:) Great captures of the courthouse, it certainly has that haunted brooding look to it!
ReplyDeleteWe have an ex-prison here, the old BC Pen, with similar architecture at it's entrance. :-)
ReplyDeleteFabulous pics!
ReplyDeleteInteresting history, beautiful building. That ghost had some help from the city fathers in fulfilling his prophesy ;>)
ReplyDeleteAwesome photos, I do like the story!
ReplyDeleteI love a good haunted story. there are weekly Haunted Hamilton tours and I have been on a few of them.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful shots!! Love the way the sky and the shadows add to the photos! Having grown up in London I can tell you this story still being passed on to kids in the 50s! However I did not know that it was modelled after an Irish Castle...I am always learning new things from you Andy!
ReplyDeleteHaunted or not, that's a beautiful building!
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