Exploring the eerie side of local history, Fairview High School’s Erie Experience class delves into urban legends and folklore to teach critical thinking and historical context. Led by social studies teacher Benjamin “Hank” Barbour, the class investigates legends like Axe Murder Hollow and Gudgeonville Bridge to uncover the truth behind these spooky tales.
One legend that captivated the class is Axe Murder Hollow, a notorious spot in Southwest Millcreek where a man supposedly killed his family with an axe, leaving behind restless spirits. Through meticulous research, a link to a real-life incident involving William Gack, a butcher, emerged, shedding light on the origins of this chilling urban legend.
Barbour emphasizes the importance of discerning fact from fiction in these stories, urging students to analyze primary sources and think critically about the cultural significance of these myths. By exploring local legends, the class aims to instill skills like information literacy, archival research, and critical thinking in students, preparing them to navigate a world inundated with information.
Principal Dr. Luke Beall underscores the value of learning local history and distinguishing credible sources, essential skills in an age of information overload. By immersing students in Erie’s rich folklore, the class not only educates but also fosters a deeper connection to the community and its heritage.
Barbour’s innovative approach extends beyond the classroom, as students embark on field trips to sites like Gudgeonville Bridge, where the tragic death of a young girl inspired ghostly legends. By experiencing these locations firsthand, students gain a deeper understanding of the stories that have shaped Erie’s identity.
Through the Erie Experience class, Barbour and his colleagues aim to preserve these local legends for future generations, ensuring that tales like Axe Murder Hollow and Gudgeonville Bridge continue to intrigue and captivate Erie residents. By passing down these stories, students become custodians of Erie’s spooky urban lore, keeping the city’s history alive for years to come.
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