Goll Woods: Something Strange Happened on Toadshade Trail

Feu Follet of Goll Woods

Dancing balls of light shimmer in the dense darkness of the mosquito-laden Goll Woods, nestled near Archbold, Ohio. This enchanting area is characterized by pockets of old-growth woodland that stand as remnants of the vast Great Black Swamp that once dominated this corner of northwestern Ohio. Local lore has long surrounded these ethereal orbs, with some speculating that they may be forms of bioluminescence—glowing emissions produced by insects like fireflies or by certain fungi that flourish in the damp earth through complex chemical reactions. However, others whisper of a more sinister origin, proposing that these lights act as supernatural entities designed to lure unsuspecting individuals off well-trodden paths and deep into the shadowy heart of the swamp, where they may vanish without a trace.

To understand this eerie phenomenon, we must delve into the area’s history. In 1836, Peter and Catherine Goll, accompanied by their two-year-old son, embarked on a journey from France to America, eventually settling in the fertile but foreboding expanse of the Black Swamp. Over the course of more than a century, the Goll family thrived within this wilderness, building their lives around the rich land, nurturing their loved ones, and witnessing the passage of generations. Their homestead remained until, in the late 20th century, a descendant sold the cherished property to the state, transforming it into a protected nature preserve.

It is near the family’s old cemetery, as well as the remnants of their homestead, that the flickering lights have attracted attention over the years. This phenomenon is not deemed surprising; the Goll family likely brought with them echoes of their cultural traditions and mythology. In certain regions of France, particularly during the solemn Lenten season, tales are told of the feu-follet—lights believed to represent the souls of unbaptized children. These spirits are said to linger along trails and roads, gently coaxing passersby to stop and anoint them with water as a form of blessing. However, these mischievous sprites harbor a trickster nature, often leading travelers into the swamp, where they are said to become lost in a labyrinth of trees and fog.

Parking/Trailhead

Goll Woods Parking/Trailhead
County Road 26
Stryker, OH 43557
(41.554640, -84.361394)

The Hike: The hike is 2.4 miles. Take Toadshade Trail, a dirt path trail ending at County Road EF and Goll Cemetery. Hikers make a right (facing the cemetery) and hike along the paved road. After a short distance, the dirt trail continues to the left, marked by a sign. When
Toadshade Trail ends, follow it straight to the signs for Tulip Tree
Trail. Take a left on the Tuliptree Trail, which will lead back to
County Road 26 and a short walk to the left to the parking area.


The hike typically takes about 45 minutes to complete. Faster in summer due to the mosquitoes. In other words, bring insect repellent.
 

Goll Woods Map. Ohio Nature Preserves
Goll Woods Map. Ohio Nature Preserves. Toadshade Trail (Pink) to Tulip Tree Trail (white)

Hiking the Trail

Goll Woods Trail. Ohio Nature Preserves
Goll Woods Trail. Ohio Nature Preserves

Goll Woods Trail. Along the path. Ohio Nature Preserves
Goll Woods Trail. Along the path. Ohio Nature Preserves. Notice that the picture is blurry? I did not bring mosquito repellent. Image taken at a dead run.

Goll Woods Trail. Along the path. Ohio Nature Preserves
Goll Woods Trail. Along the path. Ohio Nature Preserves

Goll Woods Trail. Along the path. Ohio Nature Preserves
Goll Woods Trail. Along the path as it begins to turn to a swampier area. Ohio Nature Preserves

Goll Woods Trail. Along the path. Ohio Nature Preserves
Goll Woods Trail. Along the path. Ohio Nature Preserves.

Goll Cemetery along the trail. A ghostly woman appears here at one grave.
Goll Cemetery where those who pass this by along the trail have witnessed a ghostly woman appear at one grave.

Moonville

Moonville

For over 140 years, locals have shared tales of a ghostly engineer roaming the tracks from trestle to tunnel, lantern…