Mark Moran
Featured Lecturer
Mark Moran is the co-publisher, author and editor of Weird N.J. magazines and books. For the past 33 years, Weird N.J.: Your Travel Guide to New Jersey’s Local Legends and Best Kept Secrets, has explored local legends, ancient mysteries, bizarre beasts, ghosts, unexplained phenomena and fabled people and places throughout the Garden State and beyond.
In 2003, Barnes & Noble released the first Weird N.J. hardcover book under their own imprint. Dozens of additional books would follow in a nationally successful Weird U.S. series. In 2005 Weird U.S. became a weekly television series on the History Channel in which Mark played himself.
For the past nine years Mark has been a commentator on the program Paranormal Caught on Camera, which airs on the Travel Channel and Discovery+. October of 2026 will see the release of the 65th issue of Weird N.J. magazine.
Footnote:
We wish Mark Moran's co-host Mark Sceurman a speedy recovery with his recent surgery and hope he can come and enjoy Albatwitch Day.
SARAH COOPER
What is a Snallygaster?
The North American Dragon
The Snallygaster originated from early 1700’s. German immigrants brought with them the term “Schneller Geist” or quick spirit. As Maryland cultures blended, Schneller Geist became Snallygaster.
Believed to be a dragon/bird chimera, the Snallygaster is said to have one eye, a beak, a dragon like body, and strangely, tentacles coming from its mouth.
1909 reports of the Snallygaster claim that it drained a Middletown man of blood and tossed his body off of a cliff. Some even claim that Teddy Roosevelt himself had plans to hunt the beast at the end of his term as President of the United States.
The American Snallygaster Museum
Our museum seeks to discuss and exhibit the folklore and history of Western Maryland. From the snallygaster to the snarly yow and all things in between. We will have all things snallygaster in history, art, and pop culture from the 1700’s through the modern day. Myths and truth will be revealed and discussions on the problematic past will be had. We hope to educate, entertain, enlighten, and enrich our community.
DAVID HARDIE
Author, Lecturer and owner of HardieWear
David J. Hardie takes you on an exciting visual journey of Cryptids and Creatures from Appalachia. Each beast is vividly brought to life with dynamic and vivid color and detail—leaping off the page at you!
This encyclopedic collection covers it all. You’ll learn about West Virginia’s infamous MOTHMAN, the grotesque GRAFTON MONSTER and the mysterious BRAXXIE. You’ll get to hang out with the big guy himself—Sasquatch—and a half dozen of his closest relatives including the SHEEPSQUATCH and Ohio GRASSMAN.
Learn about the sinister SNALLYGASTER and his mortal nemesis, the wolfish DWAYYO! Other legends making an appearance are the nasty DOGMAN, the wild GOATMAN, and the insatiable WENDIGO. You’ll even be introduced to some fo the lesser known critters such as the viscous SNARLY YOW, the green-thumber VEGETABLE MAN, and the utterly miserable SQUONK.
The best compendium of supernatural beings from West Virginia and surrounding states I’ve ever seen. Hardie’s artistic vision is out-of-this-world stunning! Erin Turner, author of Monsters and Ghosts of West Virginia.
Cryptids are creatures of folklore, rumor, and regional legend. Cryptid Empire serves as a comprehensive archive of American cryptid mythology, documenting these legendary creatures through original artwork, historical accounts, and regional folklore research.
MY HAUNTED MANOR
Experience the other side of life!
The Samuel Miller Mansion LLC
131 Locust St Columbia, PA, 17512
A chilling paranormal investigation set within the walls of one of America's most haunted buildings.
This enigmatic building stands as a testament to centuries past, its timeworn facade concealing the mysteries that have accumulated over the years. As the veil between the living and the supernatural is lifted, My Haunted Manor captures every spine-tingling moment through an intricate network of cameras, documenting the eerie occurrences that unfold within its haunted halls.
Featuring real people having real experiences. You can join the team on location in search of the paranormal. My Haunted Manor is not just a show; it's a journey into the unknown, inviting viewers along for the ride.
Book a night at the Miller Mansion!
My Haunted Manor offers weekly and monthly events (view below) as well as private investigations/rentals. For more information about booking a private click here or email myhauntedmanor@gmail.com.