The legends of Jim Thorpe’s ghost walks date back to the 19th century. But that doesn’t mean the tours can’t add some modern updates.

The ghost walks, hosted by the Jim Thorpe Rotary Club, return next month for their 23rd year. And starting today, guests will be able to buy tickets online for the first time at www.jimthorperotary.org. The club hopes it will make it easier for more people to hear the town’s stories.

“Not only is it a fun experience, it also supports the children and families in our community,” said Jeanne Miller, president of the Jim Thorpe Rotary Club.

The spirit of the ghost tour remains very much in the past. From September-December, ghost guides lead groups around Old Mauch Chunk by the light of a lantern.

They wear costumes from the Victorian era, sharing history about Broadway’s heyday as a “Millionaire’s Row.”

The stars of the tour are legends like the heiress Mary Packer Cummings, and other spirits believed to haunt other buildings where they died or spent their lives.

“There are definitely energies from this town. I’ve heard the stories,” said Casey Parker, a ghost guide.

Guides take the stories that get passed around town and share them with tour groups. Each tour may have its own unique anecdotes depending on who is leading it.

“The ghost guides are excellent and the success of the ghost walks is directly attributable to them,” said Rotarian Clem McGinley.

Since 1999, thousands of people have learned about the history and lore of Jim Thorpe through the ghost tours. More than 1,000 took part last year.

The Rotary has raised $190,000 for programs benefiting children and families in the Jim Thorpe area.

The ghost tours are a key fundraiser for an eight-week, free summer camp for children from the Jim Thorpe area; Rotary’s holiday giving program which provides clothing and essentials for area children each year; and college scholarships for high school students.

The tours help area businesses, and the businesses give back to the club.

Last week, the Rotarians - who are usually too busy organizing the ghost tours to actually take part in them - got a preview of the tour before dining at Union Publick House, which held a “tithing Tuesday” fundraiser for the organization.

The Jim Thorpe Trolley Company provided transportation.

In the past, each tour guest had to book their ticket on the phone. Online tickets will make it easier for more people to hear the town’s stories and support a good cause.

“We’re going to try to be much more 21st century,” Miller said.

The Jim Thorpe Rotary’s Ghost Walks begin Sept. 23 and run through December.