Anyone who is fascinated by the stories of Edgar Allan Poe, who always quotes lines from his books whenever they see a raven, a fox, or hear the ticking of a clock, knows that Poe is so much more than a writer. There is an intrigue and mystery about him that shines through in his writings. James DeVellis is proud to have read all of his books, being from the same local area as Poe – Boston.
James DeVellis on Edgar Allan Poe
Edgar Allan Poe is shrouded in mystery. There are allegations of him engaging in various forms of misconduct, including voluntary visits to opium dens. It is even said that he did not die of natural causes and that local officials had some sort of involvement in that. Nobody will ever truly know what happened with this fantastic American literary critic, editor, forward, and writer. He died aged 40 in Baltimore, MD. Anyone who truly loves this fantastic icon should consider at least three visits to key places in the United States.
The first stop has to be Boston Massachusetts, where Poe was born. Visit Carver Street, which is closer to his birthplace, to see a plaque commemorating him. On this plaque, you will be able to see the various other places in the city that you may want to visit, including the corner of Washington and State Street, the location of the publication of Tamerlane and Other Poems, the first Edgar Allan Poe book.
The second place that you must visit is Baltimore Maryland. Of course comma you cannot miss 203 Amity Street where the Baltimore Poe house and museum is located. In 1941, the Edgar Allan Poe Society of Baltimore stop this property from being demolished. Every October, there is a fantastic Halloween celebration to be enjoyed here. Additionally, the weekend closest to January 19th is when his birthday is celebrated each year. Additionally, you should visit the Westminster burial ground where Paul’s grave is found. Spot the 80” tall bust bas relief of the great author. You can also tour the grounds and it’s catacombs on the first and third Friday of every month from April to November. Also, you can go to the search hospital, the University of Baltimore, the Moses Ezekiel statue, and, obviously, the place where Poe died.
Your last spot has to be Richmond Virginia. This is where you will be able to find the Poe Museum, home to the largest and greatest collection of manuscripts, first editions, letters, personal belongings, memorabilia, and more. Richmond became Poe’s home when he was just two. The museum opened its doors in 1922 and it is around the corner from his first home as well as from the Southern Literary Messenger, which was the first employer of Edgar Allan Poe.
If you are an Edgar Allan Poe lover, then you will adore these three stops. It will give you a chance to walk in his footsteps and experience his experiences. Perhaps it may even enable you to shed some light on the mysteries of his death.