In our analysis of Gimghoul Castle, our group considered its accessibility to the people of Chapel Hill. Its inaccessibility was glaringly evident even in our initial discussions of the landmark. The first comment made by each member of our group noted was regarding the omnipresence of the “NO TRESSPASSING” signs which litter the property.
These signs, we collectively decided, accomplish several things. First, they reinforce the elitist nature of The Order of the Gimghoul. They tell people that, no matter how curious they are, they will never have access to what lies within. The exclusivity conveyed in the signs is a constant reminder to outsiders of what they lack, as if saying “you’re not worthy”. Secondly, the signs only add to the castle’s secrecy, preventing observers from guessing what the castle protects.
Beyond physical access, information regarding the order, though still hard to come by, is a bit more easily accessed than in years past. For instance, records of the order are available for viewing at Wilson Library. The only documents published, however, are those that are more than fifty years removed. By restricting access to records in this manner, the identities of members remain undisclosed. Considering these factors our group reached the conclusion that the inaccessibility of the castle, both physical and intellectual, is one of the characteristics that contributes to the exclusive reputation of The Order as well as the castle itself.
-Alice McCusker
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