mr. dickey: the unyielding principal
Before The Plaza became the vibrant arts and entertainment hub it is today, it was the heart of education in Eatonton, known as the Eatonton School. Overseeing this institution was a man whose presence loomed large both in life and, as many believe, in death—Mr. Dickey.
Mr. Dickey was a man of strict discipline, known for his unwavering adherence to the rules. His stern gaze and authoritative presence kept generations of students in line, and his dedication to order was unmatched. Some say that his devotion to his role as the school’s leader was so intense that even death could not sever his connection to the halls he once patrolled.
Over the years, strange occurrences have been reported at The Plaza, particularly in what used to be Mr. Dickey’s old classroom. Most chilling of all is the recurring discovery of Mr. Dickey’s portrait, inexplicably found placed in the center of the room. No one can explain how it gets there, but it’s as if Mr. Dickey himself is reminding everyone that he’s still in charge, still enforcing his rules from beyond the grave.
Visitors to The Plaza today come for a wide variety of events—musical performances, art exhibits, civic gatherings—but those who know the history of the building often find themselves glancing over their shoulders, especially if they feel a sudden chill in the air. It’s said that if you don’t sit up straight and pay attention, you might feel the cold, ghostly touch of Mr. Dickey’s hand on your shoulder, a stern reminder from the other side to behave.
So next time you attend an event at The Plaza, keep in mind that Mr. Dickey might be watching, ensuring that order is maintained, just as he did in life. His ghostly presence adds an eerie charm to the historic venue, a reminder that some spirits are too dedicated to their duties to simply pass on.
