It has been called one of Ontario’s most haunted locations, and it has hosted a right-of-passage for Niagara youth for decades—some say for over a hundred years. Go at night, they say, light a match, and face the ghost of a murdered girl, then hear her scream as she blows the match out. It’s a wonderfully creepy ghost story, and a fascinating study for those interested in the evolution of urban legends.

Fireside Canada is a podcast about Canadian legends, lies and lore. Focused on both the storytelling and the historical aspects of folklore, each episode includes a creative retelling or story inspired by the folklore as well as an exploration and analysis of its history and cultural significance: the story behind the story. You can learn more at FiresideCanada.ca. 

David Williams is the host, writer and researcher behind the show. You can find him on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).