Podcast Summary: "The Ash Tree by The Black Mass"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Horror! (Old Time Radio)
• Host/Author: RelicRadio.com
• Episode: The Ash Tree by The Black Mass
• Release Date: November 2, 2024

Introduction

In this chilling episode of The Horror! (Old Time Radio), host RelicRadio.com delves into "The Ash Tree," a story originally produced by The Black Mass between 1963 and 1967. This narrative unfolds in the somber setting of Castringham Hall in Suffolk, England, intertwining historical witch trials with eerie supernatural occurrences tied to an ancient ash tree. The episode captivates listeners with its atmospheric storytelling, drawing them into a tale of mystery, vengeance, and the lingering shadows of the past.

Setting the Scene: Castringham Hall and Its Ancient Ash Tree

The story begins with a vivid description of Castringham Hall, a quintessential example of eastern England's smaller country houses. Nestled within expansive parks and marked by architectural grandeur, the hall was distinguished by a notable feature—a massive ash tree growing perilously close to its walls. The tree, reaching full maturity in 1690, became an ominous landmark, especially during a tumultuous period marked by witch trials in the region.

A (00:06): "Old Time Radio is filled with ghost stories, monsters, creatures who walk the earth, and other tales of the unexplained."

The Witch Trial of Mrs. Mothersole

The heart of the story centers around Mrs. Mothersole, a well-to-do woman accused of witchcraft during the 1690 trials. Unlike typical accusations, Mrs. Mothersole's status made her a more complex figure, eliciting sympathy from community members who attempted to save her from the perils of superstition and fear-driven justice.

Sir Matthew Fell, the proprietor of Castringham Hall, provided damning evidence against her. He testified to observing Mrs. Mothersole under the full moon, interacting suspiciously with the ash tree—gathering sprigs with a curved knife and speaking to herself.

Sir Matthew Fell (Citation: ~02:15): "On three different occasions...she seemed to be talking to herself."

Despite efforts to apprehend her, Mrs. Mothersole evaded capture until a final, unsuccessful attempt led to her conviction and execution alongside others. Her demeanor, described as possessing the "living aspect of a mad devil," left a lasting impression on the community.

Supernatural Aftermath: The Deaths of Sir Matthew and Sir Richard

The narrative takes a sinister turn following Mrs. Mothersole's execution. Sir Matthew Fell was found dead under mysterious circumstances, his body blackened and twisted without signs of foul play. Subsequent investigations revealed unexplained phenomena, including venom-like effects felt by those who handled his corpse, yet no poison was found in his system.

Years later, Sir Richard, Sir Matthew's son, inherits the estate. Unsettling events persist, notably the eerie prophesies left by Mr. Crome, a witness from the original trial. Sir Richard experiences restless nights plagued by inexplicable movements and disembodied heads appearing near his bed, culminating in his own untimely death.

Mr. Crome (Citation: ~11:53): "We had no sooner touched the breast of the corpse...than we felt a violent smote and aching in our palms."

The Dark Secret of the Ash Tree

Determined to uncover the truth, Sir Richard invites the Bishop of Kilmore to investigate the lingering hauntings. Their probe into the ash tree reveals a gruesome tableau of supernatural entities—spider-like creatures and the skeletal remains of a woman, presumably Mrs. Mothersole, indicating her eternal unrest.

The climax unfolds with a dramatic confrontation beneath the ash tree. As the group attempts to purge the evil residing within, they witness horrifying manifestations—flaming bodies and menacing spiders emerging from the tree's hollow. The discovery of Mrs. Mothersole's skeleton cements the tree's role as a vessel for dark forces that transcend death.

Bishop of Kilmore (Citation: ~25:00): "There is something more than we know in that tree, my lord. I'm for an instant search."

A (Final Quote): "There will be guests at the hall. There will be guests at Castringham hall."

Conclusion

"The Ash Tree" masterfully intertwines historical intrigue with supernatural horror, painting a vivid picture of a family's cursed legacy and the unending influence of past atrocities. Through atmospheric narration and compelling dialogue, RelicRadio.com transports listeners to a bygone era where fear and the unknown converge beneath the shadow of an ancient ash tree. The episode culminates in a haunting revelation that leaves audiences pondering the thin veil between the living and the dead.

Notable Quotes:

• A (00:06): "Old Time Radio is filled with ghost stories, monsters, creatures who walk the earth, and other tales of the unexplained."
• Sir Matthew Fell (~02:15): "On three different occasions...she seemed to be talking to herself."
• Mr. Crome (~11:53): "We had no sooner touched the breast of the corpse...than we felt a violent smote and aching in our palms."
• Bishop of Kilmore (~25:00): "There is something more than we know in that tree, my lord. I'm for an instant search."
• A (Final Quote): "There will be guests at the hall. There will be guests at Castringham hall."

Closing Remarks

For those intrigued by "The Ash Tree," The Horror! (Old Time Radio) offers a spine-tingling exploration of folklore and fear. RelicRadio.com invites listeners to immerse themselves in tales that echo through time, where every whisper of the wind through the ash branches carries a story of the unknown. Tune in for more eerie narratives and unsettling mysteries in upcoming episodes.