29 Ghost Towns You Can Visit in Arizona

An abandoned home in the American desert

Ghost Towns of the Wild West

Arizona and its "wild west" history conjure up images of dusty old mining towns, deserted and long-forgotten. The state is dotted with ghost towns, many of which can be visited today.

These towns were once bustling with people, but now they’re eerily quiet.. and often, very eerie. Still, they offer a glimpse into Arizona's rich and fascinating history. And while some of these towns are no longer inhabited, they are still well worth a visit.

If you want to explore Arizona’s ghost towns in depth, check out many of the comprehensive guides on Amazon: Arizona Ghost Towns
and also the Images of America Series of Books for Arizona

1. Bisbee - Cochise County, Arizona

Bisbee, in Cochise County, Arizona, got its name from an investor from San Francisco, Judge DeWitt Bisbee. While it's not a complete ghost town and still has inhabitants, it gives you the feel of being a ghost town at times.

Mining in Bisbee more or less got its start when John Dunn found veins of copper in the Mule Mountains. So he had a friend, George Warren, stake a claim on his behalf and work the mine for a share of the copper profits. This was because John Dunn was in the army at the time.

Not long after, George Warren told people he knew about the mine and then went on to buy claims also. Some of them bought up parts of the claims that John Dunn already owned. So after John Dunn was able to visit his claim, he found out about this. Upset by this information, he sold his claim for around $4,000.

Later on, George Warren put his claim upon a bet that he'd win a foot race, which he lost. That claim became well-known. It received the name "Copper Queen" since it produced millions in copper mining over decades.

The mine ended up closing in 1975.

2. Bumble Bee - Yavapai County, Arizona

Bumble Bee began as a U.S. Cavalry outpost in 1863 and, not long after, developed as a stagecoach line stop. In 1879, the town also opened its own post office. However, the town itself didn't thrive as mining opportunities were almost non-existent in the area of the town. Most of the mining was in the form of "placer mining." The deposits of gold, given the method needed to mine the gold, turned out to be too expensive for any of the settlers to do.

Bisbee, Arizona, Main Street - uploader Willjay at English Wikipedia (Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons.) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/)], via Wikimedia Commons

The town survived for a while after that, but by 1930, the town was a ghost town. The buildings left on the site of Bumble Bee are now a mix of original buildings and reconstructions. Many of the reconstructions were from failed tourist-attracting endeavors by previous owners.

3. Cordes - Yavapai County, Arizona

John Henry Cordes formed the town of Cordes in 1883 after buying the stage station there. Being near Antelope Creek, he looked to call it Antelope Station, but the name was already taken. So he went with naming the town after his family name, Cordes. The outpost found success in that it provided supplies and banking for miners coming to the area.

Later on, the town provided services to sheep drivers moving their sheep to seasonal ranges. As for it turning into a ghost town, the post office ended up closing back in 1944. The town itself closed in the 1950s after the Black Canyon Freeway bypassed the area. So the Cordes family built a gas station and restaurant near the freeway and called it Cordes Junction.

The gas station shut down in 1973, and it is still there today, along with a house, some old cars, and a barn. It's said that some of the Cordes family still live on the site.

Sedona Mountains in Yavapai County, Arizona

4. Cleator - Yavapai County, Arizona

Cleator was another unsuccessful gold mining town. After its founding in 1864, it was originally known as Turkey Creek or Turkey Creek Mining District. By 1869, the town had opened its post office, but the town didn't fare so well and ended up abandoned until 1901.

That is when Levrett P. Nellis took it upon himself to build a saloon and store on the land. He also reopened the post office. After the railroad came through the area, it gave a little boost to the town. James Cleator then bought the town from Nellis, and around 1925, roughly a decade later, he renamed the town after himself.

Throughout the rest of the 1920s, the town's population began to shrink, and mines started to close up. James Cleator ended up putting the town up for sale around April 1949. His son Thomas ended up buying the property, and he ran a small bar there for decades.

Thomas died in 1996 and the property was handed down to his sister Eleanor and her son. They now run the bar. Many of the original buildings of the town are still there. They include the old school, the store, and many other buildings.

Cleator, Arizona - General Store and Bar

By Nic Lindh [CC BY-SA 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

5. Chloride - Mohave County, Arizona

The 'ghost town' of Chloride got its name from the discovery of silver chloride ore made in the area in the 1860s. Only a few years later, by 1864, the town and its mining operations became more active. By 1873, the town got a post office.

In 1900, the population of Chloride was over 2,000. Yet, by the 1940s, the mines were beginning to close down and residents began moving out of the town. Of course, some residents stayed in the town and it still has some residents today. The post office is still open as well, and many of the original buildings are still there.

Chloride Town Center - (WT-shared) Jpatokal at wts wikivoyage [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC BY-SA 4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Cowans Gap State Park

Cowans Gap State Park is a 1,085-acre Pennsylvania state park nestled in Fulton and Franklin Counties, offering some of the best Pennsylvania hiking and family camping experiences. The park is named for John Cowan, who operated a sawmill on Cowans Gap in the late 18th century and is in one of the earliest settled areas in this region of Pennsylvania. For more information about the park, visit the official PA DCNR page. The park offers a wide variety of outdoor recreation activities including family camping, Pennsylvania hiking trails, fishing, and boating. Skiing, ice skating, and ice fishing are also available in the winter. All around, Cowans Gap is a great place to take your family to enjoy a day of adventure and explore nature trails. No matter the time of year, the park provides both seasonal and year-round outdoor activities

💡 Amazon Products: Kayaking Equipment

The Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0) or CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Cowans Gap Lake at Cowans Gap State Park

Cowans Gap State Park History

During the French and Indian War, Colonel James Burd was stationed in Cowans Gap. He and his troops were constructing Burd's Road from Shippensburg to Braddock Road. Major General Edward Braddock and his troops were the workers who constructed Braddock Road. Braddock's defeat at the Battle of the Monongahela, east of Fort Duquesne, resulted in Burd's Road never being completed by them. Braddock and over 500 of his troops were killed in that battle.

Work on the road resumed a few years later, when the British were attempting to retake the Ohio River Valley from the French. This resulted in the construction of Forbes Road under the leadership of General John Forbes. The road was completed successfully, and the French and their allies were driven out of western Pennsylvania.

Cowans Gap got its name not long after the Revolutionary War ended, when John and Mary Cowan settled in the area. In 1775, John Samuel Cowan and Mary Mueller had met in Boston. John was a loyalist, whereas Mary was a patriot. This caused friction because Mary's family did not want her to marry John.

Despite her family's objections, they eloped. All of this occurred after John returned from war where he served as a British Army soldier. Their wagon broke down, and as a result they ended up at Cowans Gap. John traded his horses, as well as the wrecked wagon, with a chief of the Tuscarora in exchange for land at Cowans Gap. They built their home on Forbes Road.

From 1783 through 1885, iron furnaces were operating in the area. Harrison Kalbach purchased timber and land rights in 1893 for a total of 4,800 acres, and trees were cut down and sold for lumber. His company also constructed a railroad of wooden rails to facilitate the transportation of the lumber to markets. Around 1907, a considerable amount of the old-growth forest was cut down and destroyed, and the resulting erosion damage was extensive.

Beginning around 1933, the Civilian Conservation Corps started to remediate the area's environmental destruction. Thousands of acres of trees were planted as part of a forestry initiative. They also constructed thirty miles of road, thirty-two miles of fire paths (13 miles of which are still in use), four bridges, and eleven miles of telephone lines. Cabins, pavilions, brush clearing, and the dam which created Cowans Gap Lake were completed. Cowans Gap State Park was established in 1937 as a result of these subsequent environmental efforts and developments, creating what is today a premier destination for outdoor recreation, Pennsylvania hiking, and family camping.

By courane01 (Bridge over icy water) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Bridge in the Cowans Gap State Park Family Cabin Historic District

With its yellow blooms, the tulip popular is an impressive, beautiful tree.

Africa images via Canva Pro

What Is a Tulip Tree?

The tulip poplar is also known as the tulip tree or the yellow poplar. It is a hardwood tree that's native to most of the eastern United States. It is not a true poplar tree but instead is a member of the magnolia tree family.

Impressive Towering Giants

Key Facts at a Glance:

Height: 70-100 feet on average, with records up to 190 feet
Lifespan: Longer than most fast-growing trees, can live for centuries
Growth Rate: Fast-growing, gaining several feet per year when young
Type: Hardwood tree, member of the magnolia family (not a true poplar)
Native Range: Eastern United States
Best Growing Conditions: Low shade to full sun with well-drained, moist soil

In some regions of the United States, tulip poplars can reach heights of 160 feet and higher. There have been records of tulip poplar trees reaching heights of up to 190 feet. Yet most of them will, on average, reach heights of 70 to 100 feet. The tulip poplar is also a quick-growing tree. A plus for the tulip poplar is that it tends to live longer than other fast-growing trees. It's also a hardwood, which many fast-growing trees are not.

The trees flourish best in low shade/full sun with well-drained soil. Young tulip poplars are vulnerable to damage from vines of wild grapes. The vines can weigh the tree down. They can also decrease the amount of sunlight that reaches the young tulip poplars. Poison ivy and other vines pose the same threat to damaging the tree.

Blossoms of Elegance

Flower Characteristics:

Bloom Time: Spring in southern regions, June in northern areas
Age to First Bloom: Trees begin flowering at 10-15 years of age
Colors: Pale green to yellow petals with orange-colored segments at the base
Rare Variation: Occasionally white flowers appear
Shape: Tulip-shaped petals that give the tree its name
Nectar Production: Abundant nectar (about a tablespoon per flower) attracts bees and hummingbirds
Honey: Prized by beekeepers for producing rich, flavorful tulip poplar honey

The flowers of a tulip poplar tree tend to show in the spring in southern regions of the United States. Meanwhile, in more northern regions, they bloom later in spring, in June. The trees begin to show their first blooms within ten to fifteen years of age. The colors of the tree's flowers can be pale green or yellow. The coloring may be dependent on the temperature of the region and many other factors. There have also been occurrences of the flowers on a tulip poplar tree being white in color. This is a rare occurrence, though, and is not uniform across the tree's blooms. The flowers also have an orange-colored segment.

The appearance of the flowers is where the tree gets its name since its petals resemble tulips. The amount of nectar produced can be around a tablespoon per flower, and this is why the tree is popular with beekeepers. The nectar is also popular because it also contributes to the rich and strong flavor of poplar honey.

Striped maple (goosefoot maple)

By Bill Cook, Michigan State University, Bugwood.org [CC BY 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses

Striped Maple Trees

Here is some basic info you should know about striped maple trees.

How Big Will a Striped Maple Grow?

The striped maple, also known as the goosefoot maple, moosewood, and whistlewood, is a small maple that can grow to heights of between 15 to 35 feet. Many of the trees do reach heights above 30 feet, though. One of the tallest striped maples ever documented was 65 feet tall. It had a circumference of four feet and six inches. It was discovered in the area of Black Mountain, in Kentucky, in the early part of the 1900s (before 1920). It is also a high-priority tree for conservation in many states. (Source: USDA Forest Service

It is a maple that is also preferable as a shade tree over a timber tree.

When Do Striped Maples Bloom?

The striped maple can flower anywhere between late spring into early summer. Flowering occurs when the leaves of the tree are nearly grown to their full size.

What Do the Flowers Look Like?

The flowers themselves are bell-shaped and are a green-yellow color. The buds of a striped maple are a red-maroonish color. The seeds change to a brown-tan color later on, around the time when the tree matures in early autumn.

Where Do Striped Maples Grow?

As for the regions where it grows, the striped maple is mainly found in Southeastern Canada, the Northeastern United States, and throughout parts of the Appalachian region. It has been seen growing in the wild as far south as Georgia. The tree can also be found in forested regions of Michigan, Minnesota, Kentucky, Ohio, and a few other states. (Learn more: USDA Plants Database

Leaves, Bark, and Colors

One of the unique features of the striped maple is the appearance of its leaves and its bark. The leaves can be up to seven inches long and are shaped like the foot of a goose, which is where the alternate name of the tree, goosefoot maple, comes from. The bark of the tree is striped—the origin of the tree's name—and the striping is especially noticeable in the young bark with its green and thin white striping and streaks. As the tree gets older, the bark changes to a brown-grey-like color.

Plant Image Library, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Growing Striped Maples From Seeds

Like other maples, this tree develops 'winged' seeds, which can be collected and used to grow new trees in a manner similar to other breeds of maple trees, with the environment where the tree is planted being the difference. However, success rates can be low even for professional and experienced tree growers. Regardless, it's still worth trying if you find a striped maple that you want to grow on your property. Like with most trees, the "easiest" way is to use the cold stratification method, which can be the most successful method of preparing the seeds for growth. (For more information: University of Maine Extension

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Growing Requirements of Striped Maples

• The best environment for a striped maple is in the shade, not in full sun, and planted in well-drained soil.

• The tree also thrives better in an environment with moisture, but not standing water, in the soil. This is like what is typical of a dense forest and many glens.

• When grown in partial shade, the tree is more likely to reach its maximum height. While in shaded areas, it'll have an appearance similar to a shrub.

• The tree is very beneficial to wildlife in terms of food, habitat, and other benefits. Rabbits and hares, squirrels, deer, and moose being just some of the wildlife that feeds on parts of the striped maple. So the young trees may require some protection from wild animals, but they will be perfectly fine once the tree is larger.

Here's everything you need to know about the red maple tree.

Photo by Yoksel

About the Red Maple

The red maple tree gets its name from, as you would have guessed, the intense red color of its leaves in autumn. The tree is also known as the scarlet maple, the swamp maple, and the water maple. The red color of its leaves in autumn makes it an attractive tree that will certainly stand out on any property.

Along with the color of its leaves, the buds, seeds, and new branches of the red maple also have a red tone. Red maples can vary in color from yellow, orange, and/or red during autumn. To have the best chance of getting a red maple that has red leaves in autumn would be by buying the red maple variety called Red Sunset. Another way to get the right variety of red maple, with leaves that run red in autumn, is by visiting a local nursery. You'll be supporting a local business that'll work to get the exact variety of red maple that you're looking for.

🔗 AMAZON LINK: Red Maple Trees

As for the regions that it grows in, the red maple is a very common native tree that grows throughout much of North America. The red maple can grow as far north as Southern Newfoundland, as far south as Florida, and as far west as eastern Texas. Red maples are most abundant in the Middle Atlantic states, New England states, Northeast Wisconsin, and the upper regions of Michigan.

It is a tree that can grow in many environments. This includes swampy areas in soils with fewer nutrients, dry soils, and other conditions. Due to this, it can quickly take over when it's planted in forests that have been disturbed, which can be a minus when it comes to other varieties of maples and other types of trees. This is because it can disrupt their spread and reduce the diversity of forests that are recovering from logging and other human activity.

Some consider it to be, in these instances, an invasive species of maple. It is also seen as a poor tree for forests due to having a higher possibility of defects. Defects include tree and trunk damage and cracking as the tree gets larger and/or older.

Red Maple (Acer rubrum) in the New Botanical Garden Marburg in Hesse, Germany

WillowWikimedia Commons, CC0

Traits of Red Maple Trees

Some varieties of red maple can reach heights of up to 120 feet in better environments. Most red maples will typically be shorter, though, reaching anywhere from 40-60 feet in height or so. The height the tree reaches is dependent upon the region where it is grown and the variety of red maple. It is very useful as a shade tree in lawns, parks, and many public places. They can tolerate flooding with little to no damage to the tree or its leaves. It can also withstand droughts by temporarily suspending growth to conserve water.

Due to its size, with the way its roots spread and grow, you should plan out a good place for your red maple beforehand. Mainly a place where it won't bother sidewalks, underground pipes, and other structures. The roots of the red maple can be thick and tend to grow near the ground surface at around nine to ten inches down. Depending on the size of the root along with the age of the tree, this can be a minor obstacle when mowing your lawn though that's typically only a problem in older trees.

Chinese chestnut tree

The Chinese chestnut tree, a remarkable member of the beech family, stands tall and proud as a symbol of natural beauty and resilience. Native to East Asia, this deciduous tree captivates gardeners and farmers with its practical uses. With attractive foliage and edible nuts, the Chinese chestnut tree is a valuable addition to most landscapes. Chinese chestnut trees thrive in both dry and wet soils, reflecting their adaptability. These remarkable trees have excellent cold tolerance, enduring frigid temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Chinese chestnut tree is known for its medium-sized stature, typically reaching heights of 40 to 60 feet. Its elegant appearance showcases a slender trunk supporting a gracefully rounded canopy. The tree's leaves are oblong and don a rich, dark green hue. A delightful sight to behold, this magnificent tree adorns itself with tiny, brown chestnuts nestled within their protective prickly shells.

Easy to maintain, the Chinese chestnut suits gardeners of all levels Not only does it possess the ability to flourish in less fertile soils, but it also exhibits remarkable resilience in the face of droughts and floods. While the tree thrives best under full sun exposure, it can still thrive when provided with partial shade. When planting this magnificent tree, ensure ample space is allocated to allow for its optimal development and growth.

The Most Common Chestnut Tree Species

	Chinese Chestnut	Japanese Chestnut	American Chestnut
Scientific Name	Castanea mollissima	Castanea crenata	Castanea dentata
Height	40–60 ft	30–50 ft	100 ft and higher
Spread	40–60 ft	30–40 ft	60–80 ft
Leaves	Simple, alternating, toothed; 3–8 in long and 1–3 in wide	Simple, alternating, toothed; 3–7 in long and 1–2 in wide	Simple, alternating, toothed; 5–8 in long and 3–4 in wide
Flowers	Catkins, 1–7 in long	Catkins, 2–7 in long	Catkins, 6–8 in long
Fruits	Spiny cupules with a diameter of 1–3 in. 2 to 3 nuts .5–1 in in diameter	Spiny cupules, 3 to 7 nuts.	Spiny cupules, 3 nuts.
Lifespan	50–150 years (or longer, depending on conditions)	50–150 years (depending on conditions)	200–300 years (depending on conditions)
USDA Hardiness Zones	Zones 4–8	Zones 4–8	Zones 4–9
Distinguishing Features	Has the most resistance to chestnut blight and ink disease.	Resistant to chestnut blight and ink disease.	Susceptible to chestnut blight and ink disease.

Are catalpa trees hard to grow? | Source: JamesDeMers/Pixabay

The Tree With Long Seed Pods

The catalpa tree is an ornamental shade tree that produces dense clusters of white flowers and long seed pods. Depending on the species, they can grow anywhere from 20 to 70 feet in height, with Northern Catalpas being the tallest and most commonly reaching 50-60 feet.

There are three common catalpa species—two North American and one Chinese:

Northern Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa): Native to the midwestern United States
Southern Catalpa (Catalpa bignonioides): Native to the southeastern United States
Chinese Catalpa (Catalpa ovata): Native to western China

Because they are hardy trees they are often grown outside their native regions.

Catalpas are deciduous trees, meaning they shed their leaves annually, usually in the fall or after the first frost. During this time, they also shed their long seed pods and flowers, which can deter some people from growing the tree.

However, catalpas have many wonderful qualities as well. With their broad, heart-shaped leaves and striking, orchid-like blossoms, they offer a unique touch of elegance to any landscape. They are hardy trees that grow quickly, provide shade, and attract wildlife.

Let's explore the details of cultivating these magnificent trees, from selecting the right variety and planting techniques to maintenance tips and troubleshooting common problems.

Catalpa fruits are long, slender, and resemble bean pods | MONGO/Wikimedia Commons, CC0

How to Grow a Catalpa Tree From Seed

You can grow a catalpa tree from cuttings, but it's easier to grow them from seeds.

1. Collect the pods and store them in a cool, dry area.

Collect the pods after the leaves fall, typically in late fall or early winter, once the pods are sufficiently dried but before the seeds have fallen from open pods. Store the pods in a cool, dry area. When you're ready, the seeds may be separated from the pods and placed in packets.

2. Plant the seeds in a pot with good drainage.

Catalpa trees grow best with low moisture, so make sure the pot or ground soil has good drainage.

Fill the pot with potting soil (pH 5.5-7, slightly acidic to neutral) and place a few seeds on top. Lightly cover the seeds with more potting soil of no more than 1 inch in depth. AMAZON LINK: Potting Soil

If you choose not to grow them in a planter, plant the seeds in the spring in warm, loose, and rich soil.

3. Lightly water the seeds, and place the pot in a shaded area.

The young seedlings won't be able to handle the intensity of full sunlight yet, so keep them in a shaded area with mild temperatures (60-70ºF).

Continually monitor the seedlings and keep the soil moist but not soaked.

4. Transplant the seedlings into progressively larger pots.

Within a couple of months, the seedlings will be a few inches tall with one or two leaves. You can certainly transplant them to the desired permanent location, but it is recommended to continue growing them in pots over the first winter. This makes it easier to care for the young plant and to prevent weeds, pests, and diseases from damaging it.

Use fresh potting soil each time to ensure the plant gets enough nutrients. No fertilizers are required.

5. Transplant the tree into your garden or lawn.

Spring is the best time to move the young catalpa to its permanent home. Choose a location that receives full sunlight or only partial shade. While young seedlings need protection from intense sun during their first few months, mature catalpas thrive in full sun locations.

Again, the soil should be slightly acidic and have good drainage. Dig a hole that's a little larger and wider than the pot the seedling is in. Remove any roots, weeds, or other debris.

Carefully remove the seedling and place it in the hole. As you cover the roots with soil, adjust the roots so that they point outwards and downwards. This ensures healthy growth and prevents the roots from surfacing in the future.

Continue watering the young tree, just enough to keep the soil moist. Applying mulch can help retain moisture and prevent weeds from sprouting. AMAZON LINK: Organic Mulch

The dense clusters of white flowers, which resemble orchids, are one of the catalpa tree's most attractive features. | Hans/Pixabay, CC0

Retro Halloween Mix - CBS Radio Mystery Theater

There’s something magical about tuning into old time radio shows, especially when the crisp autumn air signals Halloween’s approach. The "Halloween Mix CBS Radio Mystery Theater Old Time Radio Shows All Night Long" collection brings back that enchanting blend of nostalgia and suspense, capturing a period defined by vivid storytelling and the pure power of imagination.

The Nostalgic Appeal

For those who remember the golden age of radio, which was already somewhat of a memory even in the 70s, broadcasts like these act as a portal into memories of sitting by the radio, lights down low, the drama coming alive through voices and subtle effects. Listeners who discovered these tales later can still feel a yearning for that simpler, mood-driven storytelling once heard in living rooms across the country.

CBS Radio Mystery Theater aired from 1974 to 1982 and revived the tradition of radio drama. Guided by producer Himan Brown, the program used thoughtful plots, strong performances, and skilled sound design to transport listeners. Every episode greeted its audience with a familiar, creaking door, followed by E.G. Marshall’s iconic welcome into a world of secrets and suspense.

The Unique Atmosphere of Vintage Radio Horror

So much of the impact comes from what is left unseen. With no visuals, imagination steps in to fill the void, often summoning sensations scarier than any visual effect. The echo of careful footsteps. An unexpected scream. A whisper tucked into silence. These details, woven together with careful voice acting and atmospheric music, ignite the imagination in a way that video cannot.

The people behind CBS Radio Mystery Theater knew how to immerse audiences. They layered together detailed effects, crafted subtle background noises, and timed music for maximum tension. The variety ranged from traditional ghost stories to tales of psychological mystery. All of which is great for a Halloween marathon in the evenings leading up to and on Halloween.

Why Listen In The Evenings or All Night Long?

There’s simply no better way to set the mood than to listen through the night. As midnight draws closer and the outside world becomes hushed, the line between story and reality feels thinner. These episodes, designed to be played after sunset, deliver their full effect when enjoyed in darkness, surrounded by nothing but sound and shadow.

Try making this your Halloween tradition. Turn off the lights, turn on an led candle to provide faint light, settle in, and allow each story to lead softly into the next. Marathon listening is its own experience, familiar narration, and stories that stretch across hours. The collection keeps the stories moving, letting you stay in that immersed in story or even as stories to sleep to as they play on and inspire your dreams.

Nostalgic Halloween Nights

Settle in with a warm drink or a slice of pumpkin bread, turn down the lights, and let the stories take over in the dim glow of candlelight. This year, put away your screens. The stories are waiting; simply listen and let Halloween magic unfold.

Cats, Witchcraft, and the Black Plague - A Disney Halloween Classic

"Cats, Witchcraft and the Black Plague" is not very well-known, nor is "The Great Cat Family," the episode it is part of. For those who do know about it, its spooky storytelling and distinctive animation style clearly suit the Halloween season. The segment blends historic folklore and superstition with Disney’s animation to tell its story.

“The Great Cat Family” Episode

The story comes from Disneyland’s “The Great Cat Family,” which was originally broadcast for the first time on September 19, 1956. The whole episode traces cats’ journey, a history of sorts, from their sacred status in ancient Egypt to the rise of superstition and myth in medieval Europe. Walt Disney serves as the host of the episodes, as he did with many Disney specials back then, introducing tales of both wild and domestic cats and their symbolic, cultural, lifestyle roles in human civilizations.

Cats, Witchcraft and the Black Plague

Though not an official Halloween special that ever aired on TV on its own, it has become a episode worth watching around Halloween alongside many other Halloween themed TV episodes, movies and Halloween specials.

The segment, as highlighted earlier, is set in medieval Europe and it shows how cats, which were essential for controlling rats and helping stave off outbreaks in those times, became wrapped up in fear and folklore during the rise of witchcraft hysteria. Disney animation from this era is the perfect style to portray how legends turned black cats into witchcraft symbols and the overreaction that was present in medieval Europe. But it wasn't unique to Europe. All societies around the world had fear of sorcery and witchcraft and also persecuted people over it.

All in all, the blending of real history, mixed in with a bit creative license, involving European myths and Disney animation's rich style is why the medieval segment and “The Great Cat Family” episode itself is a seasonal must watch in your Halloween season playlist.

Disney Halloween Specials and other retro Halloween specials

References for further reading and watching:

Catalpa Planting and Care Guide - From Seed to Shade

Everything You Need to Grow a Thriving Catalpa Tree

The catalpa has long been a popular tree for its appearance. It has unique, lush green and heart shaped leaves, clusters of orchid-like flowers in spring, and distinctive “cigar” seed pods that sway above through the dappled light shining through the tree.

Here is a clear, practical guide to planting and taking care of a catalpa tree. Including growing site choice to seasonal care for people who are ready to dig in and watch their tree prosper.

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Quick tips in caring for a Catalpa

Sunlight: Needs at least 6 hours of direct sun; some afternoon shade tolerated.
Soil: Is adaptable but prefers well-drained, moderately moist, fertile ground.
Water: Needs steady moisture until established but don't overwater; once established, drought-tolerant.
Growth: Fast. Mature height up to 60ft, spread to 40ft.
Best planting: Spring or fall during cool conditions.

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Step-by-Step: Planting the Catalpa Tree

Choose the Best Place to Plant Your Catalpa Tree
- Find an open area exposed to direct sun for most of the day, ideally away from buildings, utilities, and smaller plantings. Catalpa’s broad canopy, which can approaching 40ft across, demands generosity with space. Not to mention, to keep in the mind the bean pods, large leaves, and flowers that fall in autumn.
  https://wiser.eco/catalpa-trees/
- If you are thinking of planting it near water, such as a pond to provide the water some shade, then consider prevailing winds to the minimize fallen leaves in the water.
  https://www.ohiogamefishing.com/threads/tips-for-planting-a-catalpa-tree-near-a-pond.125946/
- Be sure to plant it in a location where soil drains easily, doesn't pool or puddle, and in a location that is not persistently soggy. If needed, improve heavy clay soils with compost or sand.
Sourcing and Preparing the Tree - Local Sourcing is Better
- Buy a healthy container-grown tree or sapling if you prefer a tree that will provide shade within a couple years, or grow from seed for the full experience of grow a Catalpa tree.
  https://www.hunker.com/12001885/how-to-grow-catalpa-trees-from-seed
- When picking a tree, look for vibrant leaves, a moist (not soggy) root ball, and flexible branches.
- Wire Caging for Protecting Saplings and Trees
Setting the Tree
- Dig a hole about twice as wide as the root ball and a little deeper. Loosen the bottom and edges to make it easier for the roots to spread.
- Center the tree with its root flare (where roots begin) level with the ground.
- Backfill halfway, make firm with foot pressure or pressing soil with your hand, then water. Finish backfilling the hole and water deeply again.
  https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/catalpa/catalpa-tree-planting.htm
- Mulch the area around the sapling with 2-3 inches of organic matter (like bark), keeping the mulch several inches from the trunk.
  
  Tree Mulch
Aftercare for Young Trees
- Water thoroughly, then repeat weekly during the first season, especially if rainfall is sparse.
- Stake the tree only if it is in a very windy spot; remove support after the first growing season to allow trunk to strengthen on its own.
- Remove weeds from the planting area. Mulch will suppress most weeds but light weeding may be needed once in a while.

Northern Catalpa - USDA Guide: https://plants.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/plantguide/pdf/pg_casp8.pdf

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Growing Catalpa from Seed

Collect brown, split pods in late fall. Seed viability is highest shortly after ripening but seeds can be stored cold and dry over winter.
https://www.gardenguides.com/74878-grow-catalpa-trees-seed/
For best results, you should cold-stratify seeds: refrigerate (wrapped in damp sand or perlite) for 2-3 weeks before sowing in early spring.

You can also attempt natural stratification outdoors through the late fall and winter directly in the ground without the need for planting the seeds in spring.
After stratification in a fridge, you can also sow seeds in draining pots or a cold frame with moist soil. Plant seeds about 1/4 inch deep; keep soil moist but never soggy.
Germination may take 2-3 weeks. Grow seedlings in partial shade until strong, then gradually acclimate to outdoors. Transplant to the ground after their first winter or when strong enough to handle.
Protect with wire from curious wildlife until the trunk thickens.

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Seasonal Catalpa Care

Spring

Inspect and prune: Shape young trees to maintain a straight central trunk (leader) and remove crossing/suckering shoots, per your discretion and appearance.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer if growth seems slow or soil is poor.
Watch for pests; Catalpa trees are resilient to them, but early detection of caterpillars or mildew keeps trees healthiest. Catalpa worms tend not to harm the tree and its foliage though. Plus they are great as fish bait.

Summer

Deep-water during hot, dry weeks when the tree is young. Saturate the soil so water reaches deeper roots.
Remove base suckers or water sprouts to maintain single trunk form.
Keep mulched area weed-free and top up mulch when needed.

Fall

Clean up fallen leaves, old flowers and bean pods, especially if planted near walks or patios to keep things tidy and prevent self-seeding. Self-seeding isn't likely under full grown trees but can be a good source of seedlings for more trees.
Add fresh compost or leaf mold to the mulch ring for root nourishment and winter protection.

Winter

Catalpas are hardy, but check young trees after storms for damage.
Minimal care is needed once the trees are established; just keep trunks free of snow and ice buildup.

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Common Catalpa Issues & Easy Solutions

Mess from pods/leaves: Rake area as needed, or site the tree away from patios and driveways.
Pests (notably catalpa caterpillars): Defoliation is rare to not even noticeable in mature trees but care is needed for younger trees where you will need to remove the worms (if any). Regardless, Catalpa trees rebound quickly.
Root rot concerns: Always plant in fast-draining soil, especially in wet climates, to avoid puddling and pooling of water.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How quickly does a catalpa tree mature?
A: Typically, expect 2–3ft of new growth per year in good conditions; flowering often starts 5–7 years from transplanting. They can live at least 50 years to 150 years (or longer).

Q: Is the catalpa tree invasive?
A: In some areas, especially outside its native range, pods may sprout readily. Periodic cleanup limits spread and is easily manageable in a yard; always check local advice. This may not be as much of an issue in USDA Zones 5 and 6 with cold winters.

Q: Can I prune my catalpa for shape?
A: Yes, you can prune in late winter or early spring for best results when the tree is young. Encourage a single trunk and open crown.

Q: Are catalpa beans edible?
A: No; the pods are best appreciated as ornamental features only or for seeds. If eaten, they are not toxic but there's a slight risk of upset stomach in people. Do not let pets eat them though, as the side effects may cause more issues (though not fatal).

Q: Good tree companions?
A: Underplant with shade-tolerant perennials or tough groundcovers. Grass will grow sparse and thin beneath the shade of a mature Catalpa tree.

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Care and Tips for Long-Term Care and Maintaining the Tree

Establish with regular water and mulch when the tree is young, then reduce care for the tree as it matures. Catalpas will not require much (if any) care once established and especially not when mature.
Prune as needed for structure and access when the tree is young.
Plan well and choose the right spot before planting to minimize yard cleanup and maximize shade where you want it. Catalpas are excellent shade trees but messy in autumn.
Enjoy spectacular flowers, rich shade, and the satisfaction of growing a attractive shade tree with large heart-shaped leaves.

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