Edgar Allan Poe's Enigmatic Presence in Baltimore: A Literary Legend
Exploring the Mysterious Influence of Poe's Spirit and Haunting Tales
Introduction: Edgar Allan Poe, the master of macabre and renowned American writer, left an indelible mark on the literary world with his haunting tales and poems. While his physical presence may have departed long ago, the spirit of Poe is said to linger in the city of Baltimore, where he spent the final years of his life. Join us as we delve into the enigmatic influence of Poe's ghostly presence in the Charm City, exploring his gravesite, the legends surrounding his final resting place, and the eerie encounters experienced by visitors. To celebrate the dark allure of Poe's legacy, we conclude our journey with a delectable cocktail inspired by his captivating stories.
The Haunting Legend:
Poe's demise in 1849 under mysterious circumstances only added to the intrigue surrounding his life and death. He was laid to rest in Baltimore's Westminster Hall and Burying Ground, a burial site that now serves as a pilgrimage destination for literature enthusiasts and curious souls. The atmosphere surrounding Poe's grave has been known to evoke an eerie ambiance, with visitors reporting encounters with shadowy figures or sensing a Poe-like presence nearby. The ethereal aura that envelops the gravesite perpetuates the mystique and fascination associated with the writer and his otherworldly tales.
A Mysterious Tradition:
The connection between Poe and Baltimore goes beyond his final resting place. For decades, a peculiar tradition took place on the anniversary of Poe's birth or death. A figure known as the "Poe Toaster" would pay a clandestine visit to the author's gravesite, leaving behind a bottle of cognac and three roses as a tribute. The Poe Toaster's identity remained shrouded in secrecy, adding an element of intrigue to the yearly ritual. However, since 2009, the enigmatic visitor has ceased their appearances, leaving the tradition to fade into the realm of legends.
Exploring Poe's Literary Haunts:
Baltimore's connection to Poe extends beyond his gravesite. The city served as Poe's home during the latter part of his life, and his literary legacy thrives within its streets. One notable location is the Edgar Allan Poe House and Museum, situated in Baltimore's historic West Baltimore neighborhood. This former residence of the writer provides an intimate glimpse into his life, showcasing artifacts and memorabilia that offer insight into his creative process and the somber atmosphere that inspired his chilling tales.
Rose From Poe’s Grave
I did a lot of deep diving to find a recipe that celebrated this story of the mystery visitor to Poe’s grave. I found the original recipe on Olive Magazine and you can find it here. As a bit of a snob and a hardcore boozer I have changed it a bit. I want you to see the original recipe so that you can do a quick hack but I don’t believe the roses have enough time to sit on the cognac and I am quite skeptical of this as someone who has done a plethora of infusions. Before is my recipe, it’s more of an endeavor but the man wrote the heckin’ Raven, so you can dedicate some time to him!
Ingredients
2 oz. Cognac
Peychaud’s Bitters
¼ oz. Absinthe
Lemon Peel
Directions
Chill glass: Pack a rocks or old fashioned glass with ice and set aside.
In a glass pitcher, combine ½ oz. Rose Simple Syrup, 2 oz. Rye Whiskey, and 3 generous dashes of Peychaud's bitters.
Empty ice-chilled glass, coat inside of glass with 1/4 oz. Absinthe and pour excess out.
Pour cocktail into glass and garnish with lemon peel.