Spiritus Extras
I'm often asked what my inspiration for Spiritus was and I have to admit that Corydon itself was a big part of it. So, here are a few extra things about Corydon and my Spiritus novels! Some things you may not recognize, but pay attention because they will be appearing in later books! Be sure to check out the Spiritus Store for the latest in Spiritus gear!
Historic Corydon
Yes, Corydon is a real place. It was the first state capital of Indiana and is full of history. In 2010, the population was just over 3,100. Downtown is full of shops and historical locations, and no one can resist a stroll down Capital Avenue where beautiful mansions line the street. The photo to the right is a picture of Corydon in the 1890's.
Magdalena's Restaurant
If you've read the book, you know that it's in the reflection of the window at Magdalena's Restaurant that Becca glimpses Alastor's reflection looking back at her. It is also the location of Jonah and Becca's first date.
Located at 103 East Chestnut Street, it is one of Corydon's most popular locations.
Located at 103 East Chestnut Street, it is one of Corydon's most popular locations.
Cedar Hill Cemetery
This is the location of Alastor's final resting place and the setting for a few scenes in Spiritus. The cemetery is home to the graves of soldiers and veterans of all wars.
Corydon Central High School
Yes, Corydon Central High School is an actual school! It is actually the largest school in the Harrison County Indiana school system. The community supports the school in its athletic achievements and it is common to see people of all ages sporting clothing with the Corydon Central Panther on it.
Corydon Capital
The old capital building is made of limestone said to come from a nearby quarry (maybe even the quarry that Becca visits). According to Wikipedia, the building was supposed to by forty foot square two story. The foundation is set three foot into the ground. In 1825 the capital was moved to Indianapolis, but the capital building of Corydon was still used by the county. In Spiritus, it is at this location that Alastor enlists in the Union army.
Battle of Corydon Park
The battle of Corydon took place on July 9, 1863 during Morgan's raid. There was only about one thousand people in the town and immediate area. Once news of the approaching army reached the town, the townspeople began working and continued working all night building a breastwork of criss-crossed logs on a high ridge just south of the town. A pair of Confederate spies had already infiltrated Corydon and reported their findings back to Morgan. As the works were completed, the Homeguard fell back to the town to take up position behind them. The number of the Homeguard rose to about 450 as many older men in town joined the defense.
Despite their best efforts, Morgan and his men entered the town and began looting. Morgan threatened to set fire to three local mills, and demanded each of them pay $1,000 to prevent their destruction. The owners were able to negotiate the rate down to $500. The county treasurer at the time paid $690 to spare the courthouse from being burnt, and two leading stores were forced to pay $600 each. Morgans men robbed the town freely, steeling everything from bonnets to guns and horses. The total amount was estimated at over $26,000 or over $459,000 in today's dollars.
Morgan was still at the Kintner House Hotel when he read the news of Lee's loss at the Battle of Gettysburg in the newspaper.
Despite their best efforts, Morgan and his men entered the town and began looting. Morgan threatened to set fire to three local mills, and demanded each of them pay $1,000 to prevent their destruction. The owners were able to negotiate the rate down to $500. The county treasurer at the time paid $690 to spare the courthouse from being burnt, and two leading stores were forced to pay $600 each. Morgans men robbed the town freely, steeling everything from bonnets to guns and horses. The total amount was estimated at over $26,000 or over $459,000 in today's dollars.
Morgan was still at the Kintner House Hotel when he read the news of Lee's loss at the Battle of Gettysburg in the newspaper.
Kintner House Hotel
While not a direct location in Spiritus, the Kintner Hotel does play a significant role in the Battle of Corydon. It was here that Morgan learned of Lee's loss at the Battle of Gettysburg.
Cedar Glade
The Kintner-McGrain House or Cedar Glade is located just north of downtown Corydon. It was built by John Kintner and is named after the red cedars that were planted in front of the house. It is the second oldest building in Harrison County. During Morgan's raid, those not fighting took cover in the house thinking that they would be safe. Ironically, several cannon balls landed in the front yard.
While Cedar Glade doesn't play an important role in Book#1, it will come into the limelight during Book#2.
