Eric Pleska
Tread carefully. This collection of true stories about people, places, and events that unfolded on and around Old Orchard Street in North White Plains, NY, holds secrets that may unsettle and shock. This nonfiction book, while rich in local offbeat history, also unveils tales of tragedy, disturbing deaths, eerie events, and perhaps even a lurking monster. Old Orchard Street is a primarily residential stretch of peaceful scenic suburban road that begins just beyond George Washington Elementary School in the Manhattan suburb of White Plains in Westchester County. The approximately 2.5-mile-long street runs along the White Plains Reservoir, past the Rocky Ledge Swimming Club, through North White Plains, up to Cranberry Lake, and ends at the intersection with Mt. Kisco Road, with views of the reservoir that now blankets the lost village of Kensico.This journey takes us through a neighborhood with a dark past, beginning with the Revolutionary War era when General George Washington stayed in town and ending in the present. We will encounter some fascinating local historical figures along the way, including a mysterious hermit, a pioneer of professional wrestling, a bootlegging boss, and even a notorious outlaw. There are tales of true crime, unsolved mysteries, and possibly a hidden treasure. Our eerie expedition will unfold geographically and cover multiple locations on Old Orchard Street and various past and present sites around North White Plains. If you’re easily frightened, you may want to stop now. Otherwise, be prepared to discover some of the horrific history on and around a relatively pleasant, scenic suburban street.
