Ghosts of Ottawa Past program returns Oct. 8-9

The Reddick Mansion is bringing back its “Ghosts of Ottawa Past” program Oct. 8 and 9 for those age 12 and older.

The guided tours will begin at 7 and 9 p.m. both nights in the East Parlors of the candlelit Reddick Mansion, 100 W. Lafayette St., where guests can attend a Victorian funeral as well as witness a conversation between two young women who worked at Ottawa’s Radium Dial Factory. Guests also will have a chance to see vignettes from the life of notorious gangster and Ottawa-native John Looney.

All scenes take place either in the mansion or on its grounds and include audience participation.

“This event has become very popular through the years,” Reddick Mansion Association President Lorraine McCallister said. “Everyone on the board plus volunteers will be taking part in one way or another. We are also very pleased to have the news director from WCMY, Rick Koshko, help us out again this year. I also want to commend board member Darlene Halm who did much of the research and wrote the script.”

Each tour is limited to 20 people and reservations are recommended. A $25 fee is involved. Reservations can be made by calling the Reddick Mansion at 815-433-6100 or by visiting www.reddickmansion.org. Masks should be worn while inside the mansion per CDC guidelines and parking will be reserved on Lafayette and Columbus streets for guests.

Money raised will be used for the preservation and renovation of the Reddick Mansion, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. The property also is open for tours, and rental space is available for scheduled events.