Shepherdstown Halloween!

I can not think of any other WV town where Halloween is celebrated in such a robust fashion. From 6 until 8 PM all the merchants (in full costumes) position themselves in front of their German Street businesses and prepare for the arrival of the plethora of ghosts, skeletons, and other creatures of the night. Arrive they did - trick-or-treaters of all ages. The kids were, as always, so charming.

Most adults dress up and enjoy the evening with their kids. It is quite a family affair. Look out- here comes Cat Woman!



The following photos are of the merchants of German Street and their Halloween finery.




This goulish person made me laugh! This creature's neck kept extending upward as she gave out the treats.



Judy's favorite was the wolf in Grandma's clothing.

Speaking of Judy... I looked up and she had found another man! I guess it is a man - with a big head (unlike her husband-chuckle)!

Not all costumes were scary. This lady was wearing a fine Mardi Gras mask.



John was dressed as your friendly German Street Quaker.

I really do not know what this critter below is meant to represent. It might be, however, related to the Central American Red-eyed Tree Frog.

The most innovative costume had to be the Pirate of the Carribean who wired up this fantastic system of animating a skeleton. The skeleton walked about 4 feet in front of the pirate and was controled by rods attached to the pirate's legs, arms, and torso. As he walked, the skeleton walked realistically down German Street. He had controls that moved the arms and head. This pirate costume was fantastic and gets my vote for first place!