When the Kootenay Hotel in Atlin, B.C., burned to the ground in the esarly hours of Nov. 14th last, kit was reported that all twelve people in the hotel at the time escaped unharmed. And so they did. But another long time resident of the
Kootenay, whose presence was felt and often heard but never seen has not been accounted for. This is the ghost of Room No. 7. The Kootenay ghost was known widely though usually spoken of with hesitation and the slight embarrassment afforded things of the supernatural.
The Kootenay ghost was that of an old Indian woman and she was renowned for her eeried tap tap tapping sounds. They were heard on dark nights or bright days. She had no particular penchant for the spooky hours. She took up residence at the Kootenay long ago and it happened like this.
The old Indian woman was a frequent guest at the hotel. Because she was ancient and her mind chanced to wander, it was thought best not to allow her to use matches in her room although she dearly loved her pipe. When she craved a smoke, therefore, she tapped on the floor of Room 7 with her crooked cane and the proprietor would come up to give her a light. One night the cane tapped. It had been a trying day and the proprietor was slow to reply. Finally he reached Room 7 with the matches. Pushing open the door he saw, not an aged hand holding a waiting pipe, but parchment fingers clutched right to the cane.....even in ddeath.
So the tapping continued through the years. Investigation defied explanation and many have searched for a clue. But now the Kootenay is gone and the tapping is heard no more. Not a sound comes from the blackened heap of rubble where
once the Kootenay stood. Listen! There is nothing! Did she leave for good or is she only
waiting until another Kootenay is built and another Room 7 is ready for her occupancy? Where would an old ghost go? These questions have no answers just as the tapping had no explanation. The Kootenay ghost is among the missing and she is missed byn those who had grown accustomed to her. Though all tangible evidence of the Kootenay is gone perhaps this intangible occupant has survived and will return. If anyone sees....er.....hears her, tell her all is forgiven, please come home.
And....... no..... the fire did not start in Room No. 7.
