Muskoka is famous for its cottages and lakes. But, as author Andrew Hind explains in his latest book, Muskoka’s Most Haunted 2, it should probably also be famous for its ghosts.
The second – and perhaps final – volume in the Muskoka’s Most Haunted series explores more than twenty locations across the region said to be haunted by lingering spirits.
Hind is no stranger to ghost stories. While most of the author’s 34 books focus on history or travel, he has also penned a number of paranormal titles – including Ghosts of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Haunted Museums and Galleries of Ontario, and Silver and Ghosts: Creepy Cobalt and Region.
Hind explains that after writing Muskoka’s Most Haunted in 2021 he had no immediate plans for a follow up but was pulled back in by the many chilling stories that were shared with him.
“The first book was well received, and afterwards people began reaching out to share their own brushes with the supernatural,” Hind explains. “Before long I had a file of chilling stories. They formed the foundation of this second book.”
The haunted locations featured in Muskoka’s Most Haunted range from personal homes to iconic spots like Bigwin Inn, where staff that may have once served Hollywood stars like Cary Grant may linger, the recreated pioneer village at Muskoka Heritage, whose Spence Inn may be home to a dark presence, and the famed octagonal home Woodchester Villa in Bracebridge, within which two spirits are said to haunt the living.
Historical details and archival photos help bring these stories to life.
Will there be a third Muskoka’s Most Haunted?
“It’s hard to say,” says Hind. “I’m certain there are more ghost stories out there, lurking in the shadowy recesses of Muskoka.”
Signed copies of Muskoka’s Most Haunted 2 are available direct from the author (maelstrom@sympatico.ca). The book is also currently available from Artisans of Muskoka in Huntsville (with more retailers to come – contact the author for details) and from Amazon.
For more stories on the rich history of the 705 be sure to read Andrew’s regular column, “Archives of the 705” here on 705BLACKFLY.COM.
