Are there really no evil spirits of any sort allowed in this state park?

We've been to Quoddy State Park on numerous occasions to see the infamous candy-striped lighthouse that sits on the easternmost point of land in the United States, just past Lubec.  But, we've never noticed the gargoyles before that line the almost very top of the structure.

Get our free mobile app

Are they truly there to ward off evil under their ever-present watchful eyes perched high above?

Well no, not really.

Within the land of architecture, a gargoyle is actually called a grotesque, which is a  carved mythical and decorative figure that features a spout to move the rainwater away from the structure from which it sits.

These are especially noticeable in big cities like New York, where you may see vast amounts of them lining the sides of skyscrapers.

During a hard rain take a close look at these gargoyles and you'll see the water spout from the eerie-looking figure's mouth. It must be quite the sight to see those figures spewing forth rainwater in the middle of a downpour.

TSM photo
TSM photo
loading...

So, why are the figurines shaped like they are?

French legend says that at one time a warrior in that country killed a dragon-like creature and then brought it back to town to be burned. Well if you know anything at all about dragons, then you know that they breathe fire, and everything on the dragon burned for the chancellor except the fireproof head of the beast. The head of this particular dragon was then mounted to the side of a church to ward off evil spirits, and a tradition was born.

Do gargoyles really ward off evil?  Well, the Quoddy Head Light is still standing, so you tell us.

The Abandoned Central Maine Sanatorium

In operation from about 1914 until 1970, the sickest TB patients in Maine were sent to this sanatorium in Central Maine. After the final TB patients left, it was used as a hospital for alcoholics and as a nursing home. Its final chapter ended in 2001. Check out a video of the exploration of the building HERE

25 Haunting and Paranormal Books About Maine

Want a spook? Check out this list of books for all ages featuring paranormal and haunting stories set and even about Maine.

More From WQCB Brewer Maine