The Legend of Sarah Ellen Roberts and Your Legend
As the legend goes, Sarah Ellen Roberts was one of Dracula’s brides. Due to allegations of murder and witchcraft in her hometown of Blackburn, England in 1913, Sarah Ellen was sentenced to execution and as a punishment, she was to be sealed in her coffin alive. The Church of England refused to have her buried on sacred ground, so her husband, John Roberts, was forced to travel around the world to find a place that would accept her remains. He finally succeeded in laying her to rest in Pisco, a little port town in Peru.
When Sarah Ellen didn’t appear, the mystics rejoiced and took credit for the so-called phenomenon. Others weren’t so sure and there were various sightings of a strange lady walking the streets of Pisco in the evenings. The story took a turn when Pisco suffered an earthquake in 2007 — Sarah Ellen’s grave housed one of the only tombs that remained unopened. Citizens of Pisco began saying that she was in fact blessed and must somehow be a holy saint to have “survived” the earthquake.
Nevertheless, what a legacy she left!
People have also made a legend of my life. Sometimes, I experience privilege here in Peru when others learn that I’m Canadian. It can be a special advantage because people may take my words more seriously and I have the opportunity to make positive changes, but it can be a disadvantage when others hold the false beliefs that I must know the answer to everything and that I must be rich.
When have others taken over your legend and has it been for better or for worse?
Tags: peru news, peru pisco, pisco, pisco peru, sara ellen, sarah ellen, sarah ellen roberts
RAAckerman, PhD, EA
Samantha:
We all have our regional, local, and national myths. And, unless we analyze what they really are, we can fall into the trap of condemning or shunning innocents for no valid reason. It's called prejudice. It abounded in the US (dare I use the past tense) against Blacks and Jews. Now, the world seems bent on assigning the terrorist label to any Muslim.
That was the real story of the "vampires"- it was a safe way to point out the irrational prejudice against someone…
Samantha Bangayan
Absolutely! It's a very serious issue when we think about how we change others' stories for worse because we create barriers between ourselves and consider one group to be inferior or negatively different. Labels can be used as excuses.
Thanks for pointing this out, Roy!
maureen wielansky
Hi Samantha;
Great post: I grew up with a last name that had "local celebrity status" and when I said it people would ask if I was related to the roller skating appliance commercial man (yes I am) and they would assume I was rich (sorry I was actually rather poor). When I married I was so happy to get rid of my maiden name because lots of bad blood was thrown around that side of the family. Then facebook came along and at first I didn't add my maiden name but then friends convinced me. My roller skating celebrity uncle had since retired and the name didn't mean what it used to mean. That uncle (who I met 2 times in my 46 years) died a few weeks ago and it his death was broadcasted on radio and television and the name came back into the spotlight, but now I view it differently and as a business owner, I admire his courage and tenacity.
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Samantha Bangayan
Maureen, Wow! I was so excited to see your smiling face here. Thanks so much for stopping by! =) I also loved getting to know you more through your comment.
Something similar happens to me when I'm in my father's hometown in the Philippines because our family name is well-known there. It's a double whammy for us when they find out that we're from Canada, which seems to shine dollar signs on our clothes. The truth is that life in Canada is actually much tougher than they all think, especially when my parents' education in a developing country wasn't recognized.
I'm so sorry about your uncle passing away. It's so interesting though, how your image gradually changed of him. It became less of a burden and more something to be proud of! =) Thanks so much for sharing a bit of your "legend," Maureen! =)
Ryan Biddulph
Hi Sam,
Interesting how perceptions create very different realities.
I haven't moved into legend status – yet 😉 – but receive impressions from others that couldn't be farther from the truth. Many judge according to appearances, as they do with most people.
Things must come to me easy because of the work I churn out, or how I look(whatever that means lol), etc, etc. But every talent is taxed. Because something looks a certain way, doesn't mean it is that way.
Everybody who appears to have things, worked for them. No free lunches in the universe.
Thanks for sharing Sam!
RB
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Samantha Bangayan
Hey, what are you talking about, Ryan? You're *already* an online legend! =)
It's so true that appearances are the first qualities we use to judge by. It's also easy for us to forget that people who "make things look easy" on the outside have put in the hard work to get there.
It makes me think of dancers — yes, there are those who have natural talent, but they have to develop it to the level where they are fluid and smooth.
Thanks so much for identifying with this post, Ryan! =)
Steve Nicholas
Great post, Samantha! I know that, because of my accent and the fact that I come from Appalachia in general and West Virginia in particular, there are a lot of negative stereotypes that come with my region, that I must be a dumb, racist, inbred hick. Needless to say, as a Ph.D. student, these aren't the best associations to have. I've learned that, rather than complaining about it, I will just work that much harder to show the truth about me. If someone wants to believe silliness, I know that I can't control it, but I can control the way I live my life.
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Samantha Bangayan
Wow, Steve! I hardly judged you as such just from your profile photo. What powerful stereotypes about your hometown!
I loved hearing about how you're dedicated to surpassing them and it sounds like you really have. =) You're so right that we can only control ourselves, not others' thoughts! What a timely lesson.
Thanks so much for sharing this personal side of you, Steve! =)
jeannettekoczela
I don't think I have any legends yet but I enjoyed reading your post. It's always interesting what goes on in other countries, even though the story sounded like it could have happened anywhere, not just Peru.
Thanks for sharing, Samantha.
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Samantha Bangayan
Thanks so much, Jeannette! You're creating your legend as we speak! =)
These legends absolutely exist and happen all over the world. =) I hope to share more Peruvian legends as I come across them. =)
Vinny T.
I've often been stereotyped because of my Siciilan heritage. People ,on occasion, tend to think that I have links to the Mafia because of that when, actually, there's nothing the least bit criminal or sinister about me. On the contrary,I've led a very clean like and have always associated with refined and educated people. Fortunately, the "true me" shines through and quickly invalidates any negative impressions that people may initially have about me.
Samantha, Congratulations on another insightful and thought provoking post !
Samantha Bangayan
I would have never imagined, Vinny! You don't seem the least bit mafia-like to me at all. =) It's so true that legends can change once people get to know you and see past their own misconceptions. I imagine the same would have happened with Sarah Ellen if the Pisqueños had the chance to get to know her! =)
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts, Vinny! =) Always love getting to know you better!
Deeone
Great post Samantha, I love ghost stories. 🙂
Human nature tells us to react to what's unknown to us. Unfortunately, most of the time we're wrong; and we are usually wrong because we make our decision based upon our fears. Over time, I have been stereotyped for so long about so much; that I'm almost immune to it. Everything ranging from being too dark complexed, to my sexuality, to not looking or acting how people think that I should. It's when you don't fit into someones box that they demand (at times) you enter into; that labels are put on a person and the fear just spreads the labels as rumors like a wildfire.
I completely agree with what Roy had to say in his previous comment, all labels are is a synonym to prejudice. Unless we do our own research, make our own analyzations; the cycle will simply go on and on. Centuries from now, if the world still remains, we that are here right now; will be some one's "ghost stories."
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Samantha Bangayan
So true, Deeone! We make our decisions based on so many negative factors. I'm sorry to hear that you've been stereotyped in negative ways. It sounds like you've become stronger from it though and through your knowledge of the experience, you're able to share your thoughts so eloquently in your blog, so change may happen in the world!
How weird to think that we'll become "ghost stories" as well. Creepy!! =P
neanster77
Wow I love that legend. Thanks for sharing it. I love history, vampire tales, legends and it made me want to read more.
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Samantha Bangayan
Ooh! =) I'm sure I can find a few more regional tales. =) Thanks so much for stopping by, Janine! =)
Gustavo
Hey Samantha!
I want to let you know how much I enjoy your story or (let me rephrase it) the way you wrote it. You really are a good story teller. Congrats.
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Samantha Bangayan
Wow, Gustavo! It totally made my week to hear you say that about my writing! =) Thank you so much for the kind compliment and for stopping by! =) Hugs!
Sherry Zander
What a great myth/legend, Sam. One of the best ones I've heard yet. My small town is not known for any legendary myths, but we've had some interesting characters in our midst, which made for good fodder in the community. About 20 years ago, police arrested the owner of the laundromat downtown. Dressed only in a raincoat, he was flashing women and children who came into the establishment — a real live local pervert. After that, the father of a young woman married to a man living in the town's trailer park killed his son-in-law with a kitchen knife. One stab to the heart did it. He was tired of his son-in-law abusing his daughter. The father-in -law was never prosecuted. No myths, just crazy true stories!
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Samantha Bangayan
Wow! Thanks, Sherry!
I imagine that gossip can create even crazier stories in smaller towns like yours although I absolutely cannot believe that story you just shared — it almost sounds like my vampire story, but 100 times scarier for happening in real life! Terrifying! I really hope that your family and friends were safe and sound throughout these ordeals.
@LearnIt2EarnIt
Love your writing and how you express your thoughts Samantha! I'm not sure if this is a legend, but my dad's ancestry were like 'royalty' and there was a king in our family tree. But we are talking centuries!
Anyway, I enjoy how you bring your Canadian heritage with you to Peru. It is a wonderful and delightful combination that is probably inspiring you to write. Keep it going, I enjoy it!
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Samantha Bangayan
Wow! I really appreciate your compliment and the encouragement, Lynn! I really admire the succinct way you write too — I try to implement that same conciseness in my posts, even if I'm telling a story.
The story of our ancestors is so interesting! How cool that your ancestors include royalty. =) I hope that the stories continue to be passed down in your family. =)
Oliver Tausend
Hi Samantha,
thanks for sharing this story. It always amazes me that certain people allow others to make business with their superstition, until today.
There's an old Irish saying that says: Once you have the reputation of an early riser, you can sleep until noon. With that being said, I made the experience that people stick to the associations they have with you. For example, I am a former marathon runner and most people don't get it that I don't do marathons anymore. It's also visivible because I am 12 kg heavier than then. I deal with these distorted associations in a way that allows me to live my life as I want, it's not my problem when others have a false image of me.
Take care
Oliver
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Samantha Bangayan
It's so true, Oliver! People continue to be superstitious, especially here in the Andes.
I really loved your example and am impressed that you ran marathons! =) Your snippet made me think of how people have a certain impression of me because I'm often cheerful. It becomes near impossible for them to understand when my face is neutral. =P
Great take on the matter. It's inspiring how you continue to live life without letting others' images define you. This is a quality we all need to develop! Thank you so much for sharing, Oliver. =)
Hajra
Hey Samantha,
We have a story from my fathers end that because we are Iranian in descent (don't ask, I don't know whether that is actually true) and that my fore fathers were "cruel, mean people" and were forced into migrating to India, we will be cursed every generation without the "joy of more than one male child" – my granddad being the only son, as for my father being the only child, now my brother being the only son" My mom says, one is more than enough and it is good that we are "cursed"!
As for this legend, thanks for sharing it, I wasn't aware of this.
(P.S. You get a mention on my latest post…check it! My FB isn't working, so I am finding it hard to post it in the club!)
Samantha Bangayan
That's a near Hollywood piece you shared, Hajra! You could really make it into a movie. =P I haven't heard of any such curse in our family, but we're definitely seeing the same pattern. I'm estimating that there were over 40 male Bangayans to pass down the name in my dad's generation and now there are only three males out of over 20 cousins in my generation! Eek! =P
P.S. Thank you *so* much for the mention in your latest post, Hajra! I was so surprised and uber delighted! =) Have a good rest this week. Can't wait for your next post — this Friday, hopefully. =)
Jon
Hi Samantha,
Quite intriguing story. Boy do I hear you about misconceptions when it comes to cultural heritage. They associate my Colombian background with drugs but after knowing me a short while they learn quickly that I'm not about that stuff.
But you know what? That's just people being people 🙂 We all succumb to labeling once in a while and even cast a few stones of our own. Just have to learn to reprogram that out of ourselves.
Thanks for the interesting read and the introspection you've prompted…
Jon
My recent post Enjoy Mother’s Day and Learn to Say “No” Like Mom
Samantha Bangayan
I'm surprised that the Colombian stereotype can follow you across continents! But I absolutely love your understanding take on the issue. Some commenters seem to have been more offended or defensive about how we label or make up stories about others, but you're right that this is a natural part about being human!
The difference is in being conscious and working toward change. =) Thanks so much for bringing this up, Jon! =)
Tambre Leighn
There is a barn in Binbrook, Ontario where, within those walls, I am somewhat of a legend. For years I studied competitive horseback riding under the watchful eye of the trainer there. At the time, I was running as fast as I could from the loss of my mother. It fueled my unstoppable nature when training (8 hours or more in a day, horse after horse) and in the ring as a competitor. My horse, saved from a life of racing chariots and pulling sleighs, added to the elevated storyline. It took four years, but eventually he became virtually unbeatable. Together, we became legendary in local horse circles. Later, when younger riders would get stuck or want to give up, my trainer would pull out the story of Tambre and Power Mate and our rise to the top to inspire them to keep going and not give up. Legends can be used to create fear, attempt to control or to inspire and elevate. I LOVE your story of Sarah Ellen and I understand the dichotomy of your local celebrity. The young riders who heard my story didn't know many of my accomplishments were fueled out of anger at my loss and fear of sitting still long enough to feel the pain. They only saw the trophies, ribbons and felt the heart of a great horse beating as they took up their reins again to attack the jump that had threatened to conquer them.
Samantha Bangayan
What a fresh perspective, Tambre! Thank you so much for sharing your inspiring story — I hadn't read one within the comments yet! You share such a strong legend and legacy that did so much good.
I'm so sorry to hear about your mother, but it sounds like you were able to channel the anger and fear into something so productive that could touch the hearts of many! You never cease to surprise, amaze and motivate me, Tambre. =)
Thank you so much for visiting my blog for the first time! =) I was so excited to see you here. =)
Mavis Nong
Hey Samantha,
I enjoyed reading your story and I think it could have happened anywhere in the world, not just where you are.
Thanks for sharing.
All the best,
Mavis
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Samantha Bangayan
Absolutely, Mavis! It's so true that we create legends and stories about others anywhere around the world. I think it's the human way of organizing the information around us. =)
I really appreciate your comment, Mavis! =)
Janet Callaway
Sam, aloha. What a great post topic. As a Canadian In Peru, I can certainly understand the "legend" that has been created around you.
While I don't know of any specific "legends" around me, I do know of many misconceptions. The reason is that people only saw or heard a part of the story and filled in the missing blanks as they wanted it to be. What they thought and talked about was vastly different from my reality.
Sam, I am going to think about this some more and, most likely, will be back for a further comment. Until next time, my friend. Aloha. Janet
Samantha Bangayan
I can definitely see that happening, Janet! A couple people have mentioned how they observe this phenomenon everywhere around the world. I think it can even be magnified a little bit here because Peruvians can often be superstitious and the Peruvian media likes to play up ghost stories, myths and legends! =)
I wanted to share another smaller and more positive "legend" of mine, Janet! When I arrived, I was learning capoeira for the first time at the local gym. Some of the people who passed by, while I might have been finally getting my body to do a proper kick or two, started talking about how I was a capoeirista. There are some people who still believe it, even today! =P
I'd love to hear a legend of yours if you think of one, Janet! =)
We'll chat very soon! =) See you at your blog or mine!
RobertaBudvietas
Gossip is mother's milk and where would writers be without the legends, stories and myths. Most sound so much better than reality. And people will think what they will think regardless of what you do or say. Both a good and bad thing
Samantha Bangayan
Hey, I never thought about that, Roberta! =) As a writer, we often create the legends and myths! I know that I can be affected my "characters" I meet in my daily life and create stories about them. =)
It reminds me of a quote I chose to feature on my blog: "As architecture improves on the inconveniences of nature, literature improves on the inconveniences of reality." =)
You always have the most insightful thoughts, Roberta! =) Thanks so much for adding to the conversation!
@marcus_baker
Hi Samantha,
I love stories like this. I am fascinated more about what motivates people to believe what they do rather than in the specifics.
Isn't it interesting how people are so obsessed with creating stories around others rather than using their creative power to create their own story which requires nobody else's approval or validation.
I had to work long and hard at letting go of what others thought about me, good or not.
I realized that the most important opinion was my own of myself and when I focus on this and not on what anybody else thinks is when I am in my power to create my life exactly as I choose.
Thank you for sharing this intriguing story with us. What an interesting country Peru is.
~Marcus
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Samantha Bangayan
Wow! I knew you'd come up with a powerful idea, Marcus! You're so right that we can get lost in others' stories at the risk of losing our own and letting ourselves be defined by society. I absolutely love the idea of harnessing that energy to better ourselves. =)
Marcus, you inspire me to not let myself be swayed by others' opinions, so that I can *create* the life I choose! =)
Thank you so much for sharing this motivating thought!! =)
Diana Simon
Hi Samantha,
Your posts are always so thought provoking! I had to think about this and it's probably not so much about me as it is for my students. I am a teacher here and last week my executive students asked me what is the perception people have of Italians. I thought it was an interesting question and one that lead to a full on discussion. There is the stereotype that Italians are happy go lucky, enjoy life and not serious about their commitments.
I would like to share that my students and the Italians I know have strong work ethics and are committed while at the same time, they do value the importance of enjoying life.
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Samantha Bangayan
It's so important to break stereotypes, Diana! I love how this has become a venue for us to clarify images of each other. I didn't know about that Italian stereotype, but I admire you for sharing what you truly know about Italians. Whenever I visit Italy, I'll be sure to remember your take and treat them more fairly without the misconception! =)
Thanks so much for sharing your experiences, Diana! =)
Rowena Bolo
Hi Sam,
Very interesting vampire legend! Of course, I can identify with legends, as Philippine Legends and Myths were part of our cultural history, and very much taught in schools. Although studying such stories allows pupils to develop their creative and imaginative skills, there is always that risk of confusing them as to the reality of these myths and folk lores. Similar to what you very well illustrated in your story, a legend has the potential of leaving a legacy.
Since I grew up in the province, there are really creepy stories circulating about families of "aswang" (vampire and witch-like) or "mangkukulam" (voo-doo). I'll be very honest that these stories seem very real, and I bet you heard similar folk lores in your hometown.
Thank you Sam, for this very enjoyable read! 🙂
– Rowena
Samantha Bangayan
Rowena, it's so true! I totally forgot about the aswang. I remember watching many Filipino movies about them. =) Thankfully, I was able to handle these movies because they often inject humor into them. Usually, I don't enjoy horror movies very much. =P
I didn't know that legends and myths are taught in schools in the Philippines! =) They definitely sound like a cultural mainstay that Filipinos value.
Rowena, I really have to thank you for connecting me with my Filipino roots again. =) I'm only 1/8th Filipina, but a proud one at that! =) Thanks so much for being such a great friend. =)
T. S. Bazelli
Wow amazing how the legend got so far out of hand 🙂 It's such a colorful bit of history. Thanks for sharing that with us. I wouldn't call this legend but sometimes family gossip comes full circle, and it's funny what people think (apparently I've had a baby or two by now LOL)
Samantha Bangayan
I know eh? Isn't it crazy how the human mind can be so creative? =) We fill in all the tiny details that we never hear and the suppositions can become a type of "reality." =P A friend mentioned that it could be a writing skill! =)
Haha! I *so* know what you mean about family gossip. They have enough to surmise with me being over here in Peru! =)
Thanks so much for stopping by, T! =) Hugs!
Saul Fleischman
I like the story. I also really like how you ended by revealing how Peruvians think this or that about you – as soon as they learn that you are Canadian by citizenship. I remember dealing with a lot of misconceptions about Americans when I was in Indonesia, but not as much in Japan. Here, people seem to understand that Americans can (and are) a great many things.
Continuing to enjoy your blog, Samantha!
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Samantha Bangayan
Ah, good point, Saul! Different countries have created different stereotypes about Americans based on their experiences. I've heard that it can sometimes be difficult to travel as an American people because of politics! I have a couple American friends who say they're Canadian when they travel. =P
Thanks so much for appreciating the story, Saul, and especially for sharing your thoughts on the matter! =)
Samantha Bangayan
So great to meet you, William! Thanks so much for reaching out! =)
I'm not sure if you know my good friend, Deeone — another stellar blogger — but he also mentioned the strong stereotypes there can be against African Americans. I haven't heard of the same stereotype of Afroperuvians here. In fact, they are valued for their cultural music and dance! =)
It's so true that people are going to see what they want to see and I just *know* that they eventually see the real entrepreneur and kind person that you really are! =)
Thanks for sharing your blog with me too, William. I'm so excited to head over and connect with you more! =)
Leona Martin
Nice myth/legend, Samantha! One to tell my family!
As for me I'm not a legend, but maybe one day I will become one! BUT in a good way!
Samantha Bangayan
You're a legend to me, Leona! =) You're a VA legend — in a good way! =)
Thanks so much for stopping by and appreciating the story. =) Hugs!
Ian Belanger
Hi Samantha,
Neat story. I do not really have a legend, but I would like to have one. I am not really a superstitious person and do not really believe in ghost stories, but they do have their place in our culture and lore.
Many of these stories are used as tools for parents to keep their children from doing bad or dangerous things, which is fine by me.
I feel that stories like this help us to connect with our ancestors in some way, since most of them are passed down through the generations.
Thanks for sharing Samantha and have a great day!
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Samantha Bangayan
Ian, I think you've always made a legend of yourself as a blogging expert! =)
I like your input on how these types of stories can be used by parents for good. Stories can be an easy, fun and entertaining way to reach out to children. =)
I also love how you mentioned that myths and legends can be passed down! This is definitely what happens in the Central Andes and the extravagance of it all just grows and grows. Somehow, we feel more connected when the story was experienced by someone connected to us. =)
Thanks so much for your input and thoughts, Ian! =)
Abe Palmer
As a young man I used to go to work with my father every chance I would get. As I grew older I found I wanted to go my seprate way and not follow his footsteps. Though this led to contention between my father and I, I persude my carreer in retail but continued to help my friends with their constrution projects. One day I was asked to complete a large remodle of a 50 year old home. At the completion for some reason I stepped back, admired my work, looked down at my hands and saw my fathers. It was then that I realized that his legend lives in me. In that I beleave that we both are proud. Great Post Samantha
Samantha Bangayan
That was an amazing story, Abe. You had my attention throughout the entire comment — it was more like a short story!
It's so funny that children have those moments of separation from parents and/or family, but the invisible links and ties remain. I so identify with your discovery and I think that my parents' legend will continue to grow in me.
A great lesson, Abe. Thank you so much for sharing your insight! =)
Manuel Páucar
So… you’re not rich? You ain’t no got no superpowers?
Samantha Bangayan
Unfortunately not. =( I thought *you* were! =) I try to live vicariously through your life as a famous author and young entrepreneur! =)
Farou
That was such an interesting read Samantha
its my first visit here:)
Samantha Bangayan
Thanks so much for reaching out and connecting, Farou! =) I'm so glad you enjoyed the story!
I headed over to your blog and spread some love by retweeting one of your latest posts too! =) You should set up comment boxes, so people can comment on your articles! =)
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