THE STORY
Reported Haunting
Local legend holds that the area around the Berkley-Dighton Bridge is haunted by the memory of Edward Bobet, who was killed during King Philip's War in June 1675. Visitors have reportedly heard the frantic barking of a dog near the bridge, echoing the story of Bobet's final moments.
In June 1675, during the opening stages of King Philip's War, Edward Bobet lived with his wife and nine children in a part of Taunton that is now Berkley. Seeking safety, Bobet moved his family to a more secure area near the Taunton village green. He then returned to his Berkley farm with his dog to retrieve additional possessions. On his way back, Bobet was pursued by Native warriors and escaped by climbing into a tree as night fell. His distressed dog continued barking below, revealing his hiding place. Bobet was discovered, shot from the tree, and killed. According to local legend, the site was near the present Berkley-Dighton Bridge. Witnesses have reported hearing the frantic barking of a dog in the area, believed by some to be connected to Bobet and his faithful companion.