By Nancy Dunham
Don’t throw your hands up in the air and sit in a hotel room for the rest of the week.
Sure, two major storms followed by ice and snow removal has left plenty of us with major cases of cabin fever and more than a bit of annoyance. After all, don’t many of us come to Prince William County and other parts of Northern Virginia to escape harsh winters not be trapped by them?
The good news now, of course, is that the roads should be relatively clear. That gives you a perfect chance to drive to Manassas and enjoy an event designed around the spookiness that accompanies these final weeks of winter.
The Mid-Atlantic Paranormal Investigators (MAPI) is hosting a Ghost Hunting 101 class for those ages 18 and older. If you’re not from this area, you may not realize that there are often reports of paranormal activity in the region. It’s not uncommon for residents to engage members of the MAPI to tell them if such activity exists in homes or other areas.
Now before you scoff, think of the popularity of “The Mentalist” and other television shows that deal with the paranormal.
When you think about it, you realize that this deep-in-history area is the ideal spot to learn something about paranormal activity, whether you’re a believer or just in it for the education. After all, the “Ghost Hunters” television show has explored parts of the area, so why shouldn’t you? Plus you can take the skills home and really understand what the television shows are all about when you, family and friends tune in.
This upcoming session is from 4 p.m. until 2 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 20 at Ben Lomond Historic Site, Manassas. The site is an antebellum farm that was used as a hospital during the Civil War.
Even if you don’t believe in ghosts — before or after the session — the house is still fascinating. Archaeologists have conducted excavations around the site and many of the men who lived in the home during the War wrote their names and messages on the walls.
It’s a great way to have a first-hand look at history.
Details:
When: 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Feb. 20
Where: Ben Lomond Historic Site, 10321 Sudley Manor Road, Manassas 20109
Details: $50; registration required; 703-367-7872; http://www.pwcgov.org/