MONTEZUMA - The Historic Mentz Church seems like the perfect setting for more than a few ghost stories.

Situated on a slight hill with old gravestones and looming trees and right at the crossing of several small roads with a feeling of isolation in all directions, the church feels like a location out of a good old fashioned ghost story.

On Sunday afternoon with the fall leaves blowing in the cool breeze, the church opened its doors for a special seasonal celebration of Halloween.

The Ghostly Goblins and activities day also marked the end of the Mentz Historical Society's season and what better way to wrap up their year than with Halloween.

Cheryl Longyear, town historian, said that the historical society wanted to do something really special this year.

“It is just a way to give back to the community,” Longyear said. “We did something like this a few years ago, but we just decided to try it again and celebrate the end of our season and celebrate the season (fall) and just do something nice for the kids and say thank you to the community.”

The church took full advantage of its ghost story-like appearance for the afternoon. Scattered throughout the graveyard were various prizes for a scavenger hunt, while inside, guests were treated to everything from ghostly cookie decorating to trick or treat bags children could also decorate and take out with them on Halloween.

Unfortunately the main attraction of the afternoon, Port Byron-based author and storyteller Margaret Rose was unable to attend.

Longyear said that Rose has published four books, focusing on history in the region, with her most recent work “King Mountain 1746” focusing on Port Byron.

Rose had planned on attending the festivities as Mother Goose and share some historical and chilling ghost stories.

And while Rose couldn't make it, the festivities carried on with the numerous other activities of the day.

“Unfortunately she couldn't be here today,” Longyear said. “But the rest of us are doing the best we can to carry on with all the other things we have planned for the day.”

There were no ghost stories, but there was still plenty to do with the scavenger hunt and face painting. It was an afternoon that focused on fun, but was also designed to help teach a little bit about history.

“I think this helps make people aware that we are here,” Longyear said. “And it lets people know more about what we do. I hope everyone has fun and they can learn a little history at the same time.”