Cedar Hollow

Nestled at the base of one of the majestic mountains in the Ozarks, Cedar Hollow is a picturesque town that has evolved into a beloved tourist destination. Known for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear lakes, and charming cabins, Cedar Hollow offers visitors a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. However, beneath its serene exterior lies a rich and complex history shaped by the supernatural influences of the Hora Lucerna universe.

Founding and Early History

The Pioneers

• Establishment (1800s): Cedar Hollow was founded in the early 1800s by a group of pioneers seeking a new life in the untouched wilderness of the Ozarks. The town was named after the abundance of cedar trees that lined the valley and the hollow where the settlers made their homes.
• Growth and Development: The town grew steadily as more settlers arrived, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. The early economy was based on farming, logging, and hunting.

The Supernatural Influence

• Whispers of the Unknown: From its inception, Cedar Hollow was touched by the supernatural. The indigenous people of the Ozarks spoke of ancient spirits and mystical forces inhabiting the mountains and forests. The early settlers experienced unexplained phenomena, including eerie lights in the woods and strange, haunting sounds at night.
• The Hermit’s Prophecy: Legend has it that a reclusive hermit, known as Old Man Grimsby, lived in a secluded cabin deep in the woods. Grimsby was said to possess otherworldly knowledge and claimed to have visions of a future where Cedar Hollow would play a crucial role in a cosmic battle between good and evil.

The Golden Age

Economic Boom

• Railroad Expansion (Late 1800s): The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s marked the beginning of Cedar Hollow's golden age. The town became a vital transportation hub, facilitating trade and bringing prosperity to the region.
• Tourism and Natural Beauty: Recognizing the area's natural beauty, local entrepreneurs began promoting Cedar Hollow as a tourist destination. Visitors flocked to the town to experience its pristine lakes, lush forests, and scenic mountain trails.

Cultural Flourishing

• Arts and Crafts Movement: The early 1900s saw a flourishing of arts and crafts in Cedar Hollow. Artisans and craftsmen were drawn to the town, creating unique pottery, woodwork, and textiles inspired by the surrounding natural beauty.
• The Cedar Hollow Symphony: In 1925, the Cedar Hollow Symphony Orchestra was established, bringing classical music to the town and further enhancing its cultural reputation.

The Dark Times

The Great Depression

• Economic Hardship (1930s): Like much of the nation, Cedar Hollow was not immune to the effects of the Great Depression. The once-thriving economy faltered, and many businesses closed their doors. However, the town's resilient spirit kept it from falling into complete despair.
• Rise of Local Legends: During this time, stories of supernatural occurrences became more frequent. The legend of the "Cedar Hollow Phantom," a mysterious figure said to haunt the woods, emerged and added to the town's enigmatic allure.

World War II and Beyond

• War Effort (1940s): Cedar Hollow played its part in the war effort, with many young men enlisting to fight overseas. The town's women took on roles in factories and farms, keeping the local economy afloat.
• Post-War Revival (1950s-1960s): The post-war years brought a period of revival and growth. Tourism surged as families sought peaceful retreats in the town's beautiful cabins and lodges. Cedar Hollow became known for its annual summer festivals, celebrating local culture and heritage.

Modern Era

Tourist Destination

• Cabins and Crystal Lakes: Today, Cedar Hollow is a premier tourist destination, renowned for its charming cabins nestled in the mountains near pristine crystal lakes. Visitors come to fish, hike, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Ozarks.
• Outdoor Adventures: The town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking, mountain biking, and guided nature tours. The Cedar Hollow Adventure Park, with its zip lines and rock climbing walls, attracts thrill-seekers from across the country.

Hidden Mysteries

• Supernatural Tourism: Cedar Hollow has embraced its supernatural heritage, offering ghost tours, paranormal investigations, and storytelling events. The town's mysterious history adds a unique dimension to the visitor experience.
• Old Man Grimsby’s Legacy: The legend of Old Man Grimsby lives on, with his former cabin now a popular tourist attraction. Visitors claim to feel a strange presence and occasionally hear whispers in the wind, hinting at the town's deeper connection to the supernatural.

Tales and Myths

The Legend of the Goatmen

• Origins: The Goatmen of Cedar Hollow are said to be the remnants of an ancient cult that worshipped a half-man, half-goat deity. According to legend, these cultists performed dark rituals in the deep woods, seeking to gain supernatural powers by merging their essence with that of their deity.
• Sightings: Over the years, there have been numerous reports of Goatmen sightings. These creatures are described as having the body of a man and the legs and head of a goat, with glowing eyes and an eerie, guttural voice. They are often seen at dusk, lurking near the old ritual sites or the abandoned cabin of Old Man Grimsby.
• Modern Encounters: Despite efforts to debunk these sightings, many locals and tourists alike have claimed to encounter the Goatmen while hiking or camping in the woods. These encounters often leave the witnesses shaken, with a lingering sense of dread.

The Ozark Black Howler

• The Beast of the Ozarks: Another famous legend from Cedar Hollow is that of the Ozark Black Howler, a fearsome creature said to roam the mountains and forests. Descriptions of the Howler vary, but it is generally depicted as a large, black, bear-like beast with glowing red eyes and a bone-chilling howl.
• Historical Accounts: Tales of the Black Howler date back to the earliest settlers, who spoke of a monstrous creature that would terrorize their livestock and occasionally attack humans. The indigenous tribes also had legends of a similar beast, which they believed was a guardian spirit of the forest, angered by the encroachment of humans.
• The Howler Today: While modern science dismisses the Black Howler as a myth, sightings and unexplained animal attacks continue to this day. The howls of the beast can still be heard echoing through the mountains on cold, moonless nights, adding to the town’s eerie reputation.

The Curse of Cedar Hollow

• The Phantom of Cedar Hollow: One of the town's most enduring legends is that of the Cedar Hollow Phantom, a ghostly figure said to haunt the area. The Phantom is often described as a shadowy, hooded figure that appears suddenly and disappears just as quickly, leaving behind a chilling presence.
• The Origins: The origins of the Phantom are shrouded in mystery. Some believe it to be the restless spirit of a settler who met a tragic end, while others think it might be Old Man Grimsby himself, still watching over the town from beyond the grave.
• Modern Encounters: Many visitors and locals have reported encountering the Phantom, particularly near the old cemetery or along the secluded hiking trails. These encounters often involve sudden temperature drops, eerie whispers, and the feeling of being watched.

Community

A Tight-Knit Society

• Small-Town Charm: Cedar Hollow is known for its close-knit community, where everyone knows their neighbors, and a strong sense of camaraderie prevails. The town's residents take pride in their heritage and work together to maintain the beauty and tranquility of their surroundings.
• Cultural Events: The town hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, craft fairs, and historical reenactments. These events foster a strong sense of community and attract tourists from far and wide.

Rarely Seen Violence

• Peaceful Living: Cedar Hollow has a reputation for being a peaceful and safe place to live. Violent crime is rare, and the town's residents value their quiet, harmonious way of life. The local sheriff's office is well-respected and works diligently to maintain order and safety.

The Southern Saviors Society

Formation and Ideology

• The Rise of the Biker Gang: In recent years, Cedar Hollow has become home to a biker gang known as the Southern Saviors Society. This group of bikers is deeply patriotic and embraces Southern culture, identifying strongly with the values and traditions of the (Eastern) Confederate States of America.
• Hard Patriots: The Southern Saviors Society members see themselves as defenders of Southern heritage and values. They are known for their strong sense of loyalty and community, often participating in local events and charity work, despite their rough exterior.

Activities and Presence

• Visible Influence: The presence of the Southern Saviors Society is highly visible in Cedar Hollow. Members can often be seen riding their motorcycles through town, adorned with the group's insignia. They frequent local businesses and are active participants in town events.
• Community Interaction: While some residents are wary of the biker gang, many appreciate their commitment to the community. The Southern Saviors Society has been known to assist in local projects, provide support during emergencies, and contribute to the town's sense of security.