Photo Credit: Publico BullStreet
Gettin’ Spooky With It! 👻 🧙🏽♀️💀
As the days grow shorter and the chill of autumn settles in, there’s no better time to curl up with a spooky read or dive into the eerie history that lies in our own backyard. This Halloween, we’ve curated a list of hauntingly good books that are perfect for getting you in the spooky spirit—along with a little local flair from Columbia’s Bull Street area. Plus, we’ll throw in some podcast recommendations to keep the thrills going long after the last page is turned.
Reads: Spooky Reads to Sink Your Teeth Into ☠️
The Southern Book Club’s Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if your neighborhood book club turned into a vampire-hunting squad, this is the read for you. Set in Mount Pleasant, SC, this Southern gothic gem delivers 90s nostalgia, plenty of dark humor, and just the right amount of vampire-induced chaos. It’s October’s book club pick, and trust us—it’s the perfect mix of creepy, fun, and South Carolina references.
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Picture this: a glamorous debutante, a creepy mansion in the Mexican countryside, and a family with more secrets than walls. Mexican Gothic is a slow-burn horror with gothic vibes that feel like a mashup of Jane Eyre and Rebecca, but with even more sinister twists. It’s a rich, atmospheric story that pulls you in and doesn’t let go.
Ghosts of the South Carolina Midlands by Alan Brown
Want to dive into some homegrown hauntings? This book is a must-read for those fascinated by Columbia’s spookier side. From Bull Street’s haunted hospital to eerie local legends, it’s filled with ghost stories and supernatural tales from right here in our neck of the woods. Perfect for anyone who loves a little local history with their Halloween.
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
A haunted house story that’s been terrifying readers for generations, The Haunting of Hill House is a classic for a reason. Four strangers, one infamously haunted mansion, and a series of strange (and downright terrifying) events make this one of the best ghost stories ever written. Just don’t read it with the lights off.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt
Savannah may be the setting for this true-crime Southern gothic, but the mystery and charm are just as irresistible for Columbia readers. Filled with eccentric characters, murder, and intrigue, this book reads like fiction—but it’s all too real. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a good mystery wrapped in Southern charm (with just a hint of the supernatural).
Pods: Podcasts To Give You The Chills 👹
When you’re done reading, keep the spooky vibes going with these chilling podcast episodes:
- Lore – This podcast uncovers the frightening true stories behind folklore and legends. For an eerie Bull Street connection, check out episodes that explore haunted asylums and the psychological impact of those places.
- Spooked – True-life supernatural stories, told by the people who experienced them. It’s like sitting around a campfire with friends, but much scarier. Perfect for a late-night listen.
- The NoSleep Podcast – Dive into fictional horror stories that will make your skin crawl. Every episode is filled with tales of the supernatural, strange, and creepy.
- Unobscured by Aaron Mahnke – A deep dive into the historical context behind well-known eerie events, perfect for those who love a mix of education and mystery. Their season on the Salem Witch Trials offers a fascinating exploration of fear and superstition in American history.
- Ghost Boss: Stories About the Freelance Afterlife – Ready for a little behind-the-scenes magic? SOCO members Eva Foussat and Danielle Salley are graphic designers who jumped headfirst into freelancing, aka “the freelance afterlife.” They record Ghost Boss right here in our SOCO content studio, sharing stories about life as freelancers and what it feels like to be your own boss. Perfect if you need a little spooky + work-life balance inspo!
Haunts: Columbia’s Own Ghost Stories: The Bull Street District 🏚️
Did you know Columbia has its own ghostly tales? The Bull Street District, which is now home to cool developments (hello, SOCO Bull Street!), was once the site of the South Carolina State Hospital, the state’s first mental institution, founded in 1821. The hospital operated for nearly two centuries, and while today the district is buzzing with new life, whispers of its haunted past still echo through the city.
Locals have reported hearing eerie footsteps and strange noises in the older, abandoned buildings. So, while the district is transforming into a hub for culture, community, and business, there’s still a bit of mystery lingering in the air. Curious to learn more? Book a tour of our location at SOCO Bull Street and check out the former patient-run bakery. Who knows, maybe you’ll feel a little chill in the air as you explore!
Lean Into The Scary 🎃
You know what else can be scary? Doing the hustle on your own. Whether you’re feeling “in the dark” or just getted spooked when you’re working by yourself at home…SOCO is a place to feel alive, connected and supported…so you can do your very best work. From workspace, to social/professional networking and peer mentoring groups…we’re building a community purpose built to support ambitious working professionals like you. Hope you’ll join us today! And don’t forget about our fabulous meeting rooms that are perfectly designed to scare up some new collaboration (or revenue). We couldn’t resist.🤣