Photo by Nic Showalter
As the crisp October air swept through Brown County, the charming streets of Nashville, Indiana, buzzed excitedly. Halloween was just around the corner, and the Story Inn, known for its rustic charm and friendly ghostly reputation, attracted locals and curious visitors. Everyone was eager to share their encounters with the beloved Blue Lady.
One cheerful autumn evening, a group of friends made their way to the Story Inn, their hearts racing with excitement and a little bit of nervousness. They had heard tales of Jane Story, the spirited wife of the town’s founder, who was said to roam the inn in a lovely white gown. Legend had it that her enchanting blue eyes captivated anyone who caught a glimpse of her.
“Let’s stay in the Blue Lady Room!” Sarah, the most adventurous of the group, suggested enthusiastically. The others exchanged playful glances but couldn’t resist the idea. They ascended the creaky staircase, their laughter echoing through the cozy corridors.
Inside the Blue Lady Room, they admired the charming decor and the lovely view of the garden through the windows. The soft glow of a small blue light on the nightstand caught their eye—a signal some guests believed could invite Jane’s spirit. As darkness enveloped the inn, the friends gathered around flickering candles, sharing ghost stories that sparked giggles and shivers.
“Do you think she’ll show up?” Jake, the resident skeptic, joked. The others playfully shushed him, eagerly awaiting what the night might bring. They decided to turn on the blue light, hoping to create a magical atmosphere.
Just as midnight struck, the room felt different. A playful draft swirled around them, and with it came the delightful scent of cherry tobacco. The air crackled with excitement.
“Is anyone else feeling this?” Emma whispered, her eyes wide with wonder. Suddenly, the blue light danced, and they turned their gazes toward the mirror on the wall. There, reflected in the glass, was the outline of a lady wearing a flowing white gown, her deep blue eyes sparkling like stars.
A mix of thrill and amazement filled the room. The apparition floated closer, her expression warm and inviting. She seemed to glide across the floor as if she were floating on air, and the friends could hardly contain their joy and curiosity.
“Who wishes to join me in this lovely evening?” her voice, sweet and gentle, echoed in their hearts.
Gathering their courage, Sarah stepped forward, her excitement bubbling over. “We mean no harm, Jane! We just want to know your story!
”The figure smiled, her icy blue gaze filled with kindness. “I simply wander here to cherish this beautiful place, a haven of memories. I loved this land and the happiness it once held.”The friends stood captivated, their nerves fading away as warmth enveloped them. They could sense Jane’s love for her home and her longing for a connection.
With a graceful wave of her hand, delicate blue ribbons floated around the room, dancing through the air before gently settling on the friends. “Remember me and share my story. Let this place’s beauty shine on, just as I have.”
With a final, loving smile, she began to fade into the soft glow of dawn, her essence a gentle breeze. The room returned to its usual charm, but the friends were filled with wonder.
As the sun rose, they stepped out with a new mission: to honor the Blue Lady and tell her story, ensuring her memory lived on. When they left the Story Inn, the sweet scent of cherry tobacco lingered in the air—a delightful reminder of their enchanting encounter.
Every Halloween, the inn welcomed visitors eager to hear stories about the Blue Lady. In the Blue Lady Room, guests often found a little blue ribbon tucked onto their pillows, a friendly gesture from Jane that reminded them to keep seeking the joy and magic woven into the walls of the Story Inn.