History & local legend
Charlie was part of the dining experience at the Inn at Maple Grove near Alburtis. His story appeared on the menu, and the Heffley family, who purchased the inn in 1977, named a drink after him: the Floating Cloud Cocktail.
Former owner Colin Heffley described an incident after the last customers had paid and left. The main entrance was still unlocked for business. When someone knocked, he went to answer and found the bolts fastened, although he had not secured them.
Other stories came from diners rather than the owners. One described a salt shaker lifting several inches from a table, opening and spilling its contents into a guest’s lap.
Sources
- Jill Stefko, Colin Heffley’s accounts, named drink, door bolts and dining-room stories, October 18, 2007
- The Morning Call, contemporary restaurant review records two ghost stories printed on the inn’s menu
- Alyssa Warner, 2011 visit to the restaurant, published in Lower Macungie Patch
- Berks County Eats, Maple Grove Pub & Grill at the same State Street address
- Esri, inn address point
