New Castle County, Delaware City, Delaware
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| Photo: Wikimedia |
Standing on Pea Patch Island in the Delaware River, was constructed in the mid-19th century as a coastal defense fortification and later became one of the most notorious Union prison camps during the American Civil War. Thousands of Confederate prisoners were held within its walls under brutal conditions, and many never left the island alive.
Overcrowding, disease, malnutrition, and exposure were rampant inside the fort. Prisoners suffered through harsh winters and sweltering summers with inadequate shelter and medical care. Mass graves were created nearby as death became a daily reality. Many believe the suffering experienced here left an indelible mark on the land, binding restless spirits to the fort long after the war ended.
Visitors and park staff have reported a wide range of paranormal activity throughout Fort Delaware. Apparitions dressed in Civil War–era uniforms are said to wander the ramparts and interior corridors, sometimes vanishing suddenly when approached. Others report hearing disembodied footsteps, distant voices, and the clanking of chains echoing through empty rooms.
Cold spots, sudden temperature drops, and an overwhelming sense of dread are frequently reported inside the prison casemates. Some visitors describe feeling watched or followed, while others experience unexplained nausea or emotional heaviness. Paranormal investigators have captured unexplained voices and shadow figures during nighttime investigations, particularly near former prison areas.
Even during daylight hours, Fort Delaware carries a somber, oppressive atmosphere. The isolation of the island, combined with the fort’s grim history, creates a sense that time has stalled within its walls. Many who visit leave with the feeling that the spirits of those who suffered here are still present, silently bearing witness to a chapter of history that refuses to fade.
Visitor Information:
Address: Pea Patch Island
Delaware City, DE 19706
Note: Access to Fort Delaware is by ferry only and subject to seasonal schedules.