The scent of the Patapsco valley in the fall — turning leaves and freshly-trod soil — swathed in a haze of unearthly ecclesiastical incense.
Many who enjoy an easy hike have stumbled upon the remains of St. Mary's college in the woods of Illchester, on the outskirts of Ellicott City. The first building was built in the 1830's by George Ellicott, the grandson of one Ellicott City's founders, in hopes that it would be a popular stop for travelersalong the brand new B&O Railroad. Alas, that never happened, and the property and lands were sold toThe Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, commonly known as the Redemptorists, in 1866. They used the site primarily as a seminary college, which was renamed St. Mary's College in 1882.
The college closed its doors in 1972 and fell into disrepair, making it a popular spot for thrill-seekers and teenagers. Stories began to circulate about satanic altars on the grounds, each retelling embellishing more on the macabre history of the newly-minted "Hell House."
As partying and vandalism by local teens began to occurmore frequently, the site's caretaker, Hudson, became a part of the legend. He often chased off tresspasers with a salt-filled shotgun and his pack of dogs. He was so fearsome that even local police began to warn against interacting with the man, who was often in court for his vigorous defense of his charge. He has since retired as caretaker, and the position remains unfilled.
Fires have gutted the site, and now little remains. Even the gothic cupola, exposed and overgrown with vines, has had its iconic cross stolen in the last year — a disappointment to hikers and lovers of spooky tales. Still, stories of spectral gunshots, evil deeds, and unholy rites are told about the old Hell House, and woe betide those who visit after dark, lest they incur the wrath of an angry caretaker and his baying hounds, who are said to still haunt the nearby woods.
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