In 2022, I published Haunted Ocala National Forest through Arcadia/History Press.
The story of Morris the Magician came to me via two amazing writers who had spent time writing for the Ocala Star Banner, Rick Allen and Dave Schlenker. I came across their names in connection with the activity at Fort King, and became an immediate fan of their writing. Both took the stories in the area about ghosts seriously, and it was obvious they saw the connection between a ghost story and history. They both loved their city.
I have an obsession with haunted theatres, from my first experiences at the Majestic in Boston to the Arcade in Downtown Fort Myers. The Ocala Civic Theatre may have the best backstory of them all. Between its connections to Silver Springs to the idea the new theatre tried to get the ghosts to travel to their location to the concept that lawyers like to buy haunted locations, Morris was the kind of magician who still continues to inspire magic.
Explore the darker side of Fort Myers with Christopher Balzano during the dark on a hauntingly unforgettable walking tour with True Tours.
Check out Christopher Balzano’s books, including the newly released Haunted Southwest Florida.
Feel free to call our new phone number during our live shows to get involved, share a legend you’ve heard, or to just ask a question at (813) 418-6822.
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You can contact us with questions, comments, and your favorite legend or tidbit of folklore at spookytripping@gmail.com.
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