In the gloomy winter of 1842, Nathaniel Hawthorne, acclaimed author of “The Scarlet Letter” and “The House of Seven Gables,” found himself within the hallowed walls of the Athenaeum, then located on Pearl Street in Boston. Engrossed in the noble hall’s profound tranquility, Hawthorne’s attention was drawn to an elderly gentleman engrossed in the Boston Post, Reverend Thaddeus Mason Harris.

As Hawthorne observed, Harris appeared to bear the weight of the world but wore an air of tranquility that seemed rooted in some otherworldly realm. In subsequent visits, Hawthorne witnessed the peculiar repetition of Harris’ presence, each time engrossed in the news, sitting in the same spot as if trapped in a loop of his own making. One fateful day, Harris, his gaze locked onto Hawthorne, radiated a haunting aura that suggested a spectral realization of his own demise.

Fast-forward to the present day, and the Boston Athenaeum, now a cultural and artistic epicenter, is still plagued by whispers of the supernatural. A malfunctioning elevator within its historic walls has become the subject of hushed conversations and raised eyebrows. Patrons often chuckle nervously, attributing the elevator’s glitches to Dr. Harris, asserting that the good reverend continues his leisurely ascents and descents beyond the realm of the living. According to them, the unexpected halts, sudden lurches, and unexplained mechanical disturbances serve as eerie testaments to Harris’ eternal presence within the Athenaeum, a silent spectral rider on a ceaseless journey between floors.

James Allen, alias George Walton, led a life of relentless criminal activity, marking his existence with a cycle of theft and incarceration that began in his early youth in Lancaster, Massachusetts. This infamous highwayman’s life took an eerie turn toward its end when Allen, on his deathbed at the Massachusetts State Prison, made a peculiar request. He demanded his memoir, which he had penned during his years behind bars, be bound in his own skin posthumously and gifted to a man he once attempted to rob, John Fenno Jr. This uncanny volume, titled “Narrative of the Life of James Allen,” would forever link Allen with the Boston Athenaeum, where it is now prominently displayed.

This skin-bound book, encapsulating Allen’s criminal escapades, is inscribed with the Latin phrase “Hic Liber Waltonis Cute Compactus Est,” translating to “This book was bound in Walton’s Skin.” The phrase itself adds an extra layer of morbidity to the already gruesome artifact, inducing a chill in the hearts of many visitors. Over the years, this unusual biography has been linked to a series of strange occurrences and perceived paranormal activity within the library.

Library patrons and staff alike have reported spine-tingling instances of unexplained phenomena — footsteps echoing in the silent hallways, sudden drops in temperature, and an unsettling feeling of being watched. Most attribute these inexplicable happenings to the lingering spirit of James Allen, suggesting that his ghost haunts the library, eternally bound by the skin-bound book that encapsulates his life’s story. Thus, the Boston Athenaeum, not only a beacon of knowledge and a hub of culture, also serves as an enduring testament to Allen’s haunting legacy. His ghostly presence continues to add an eerie allure to the Athenaeum, making it a must-visit for any seeker of the supernatural.

Upon entering the Boston Athenaeum, visitors are greeted by an eclectic array of intriguing items that set the tone for the Athenaeum’s many wonders. This captivating tableau provides a glimpse into the institution’s rich history and diverse collections, promising a unique and engaging exploration for all who step inside.

Ascending to the second floor, guests encounter the Long Room, a quiet reading space adorned with busts of Roman citizens. The room is bathed in hushed tones that whisper tales of ancient erudition, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the intellectual exploration that the Athenaeum promotes.

The third floor houses the Athenaeum’s extensive catalog, a treasure trove of knowledge, alongside the mesmerizing King’s Chapel collection. This collection of 17th-century theological works is a testament to the Athenaeum’s historical breadth, offering rich insights into religious thought and philosophy.

Upon reaching the fourth floor, visitors discover the library administration and the World History collection within an elegant oval room. This space, often used for trustee meetings, imbues the Athenaeum’s administrative proceedings with an air of historical gravitas, reminding all of its illustrious heritage.

The fifth floor, a haven for reading and research, is styled in Colonial-themed decor. The silent reading room, with its barrel-vaulted ceiling and wrought-iron chandeliers, offers a tranquil sanctuary away from the bustling city, fostering deep thought and contemplation.

Finally, the journey concludes with the awe-inspiring “Drum,” nine floors of glass-floored stacks ingeniously designed to maximize space. Holding an extensive collection of books, the Drum is a testament to both the Athenaeum’s architectural innovation and its commitment to preserving knowledge. This impressive structure perfectly encapsulates the Athenaeum’s mission — a beacon of learning, history, and culture, shining bright for all those who seek it.

The Boston Athenaeum, established in 1807, owes its inception to the philanthropic endeavors of the Anthology Society of Boston. This revered institution has borne witness to various epochs of history, amassing a rich tapestry of cultural, artistic, and intellectual heritage.

One of the most chilling practices enshrined within the annals of the Athenaeum’s history is anthropodermic bibliopegy — the binding of books in human skin. A macabre tradition that seems like the stuff of horror tales is, in fact, a gruesome reality within the Athenaeum’s walls.

The most infamous manifestation of this tradition is a memoir authored by James Allen, also known as George Walton. This memoir, bound in the author’s own skin, is a unique memento of his life of crime. The narrative inked within its pages unveils the chronicles of Allen’s misadventures, recounting his exploits in his own words and flesh.

The “skin book,” as it is colloquially known, is not showcased as part of the Athenaeum’s public display. This decision is rooted in respect for the sensitive nature of the artifact and the ethical questions it raises. However, on rare occasions, this macabre volume is brought forth from its secure location, its emergence cloaked in an air of solemnity and intrigue.

These exclusive instances are often accompanied by scholarly lectures or discussions aimed at exploring the complex historical and ethical dimensions of anthropodermic bibliopegy. Thus, while fostering a sanctuary for knowledge and culture, the Boston Athenaeum also invites its patrons on a journey through the darker alleyways of human history and morbidity.

The Boston Athenaeum offers several membership categories to suit different needs. From individual and family memberships to special rates for educators, students, and young professionals, the Athenaeum has various programs for everyone.

The Boston Athenaeum is located in the heart of the city at 10½ Beacon Street, Boston, MA, 02108, USA. This historical institution is nestled between the Massachusetts State House and the Granary Burying Ground, one of the city’s oldest cemeteries.

Yes, the Boston Athenaeum is open to the public. However, only members have full access to all the Athenaeum’s collections and services. Non-members can explore the first floor, which contains the Athenaeum’s exhibition gallery and can attend public events, many of which are free.

Yes, the Boston Athenaeum offers guided tours. Visitors can learn about the Athenaeum’s rich history and unique collections through these tours. It’s recommended to check the Athenaeum’s website for the latest tour schedules and booking information.