The Haunting of McMenamins Edgefield — Former Poor Farm & Haunted Hotel

Troutdale, Multnomah County, Oregon

Photo: Wikipedia

On the shores of Sandy River, just outside Portland, Oregon, sits a sprawling historic complex known today as McMenamins Edgefield. Once the Multnomah County Poor Farm, Edgefield has stood for more than a century as a place where the burdens of life, hardship, and even death have left their mark on the land. With its long, complex history and countless reported supernatural encounters, Edgefield has become one of the Pacific Northwest’s most talked‑about haunted locations.

From Poor Farm to Entertainment Landmark

The roots of Edgefield date back to 1911, when the Multnomah County Poor Farm was established to care for the indigent, sick, elderly, and mentally ill residents of the Portland area. Entire families were sent here to live and work the 345‑acre property, producing crops and caring for livestock in exchange for room and board. At its peak, more than 600 residents called the farm home, many suffering from chronic illness or untreated conditions.

Over the following decades, the property evolved: it became a nursing home, veterans’ facility, and infirmary before falling into disrepair in the 1980s. Local preservationists convinced county officials that the historic structures needed to be saved, and in 1990 the farm was added to the National Register of Historic Places. That same year, the McMenamins brothers purchased the property and began restoring it to become the vibrant entertainment, lodging, and event venue it is today — complete with restaurants, pubs, gardens, a movie theater, golf course, wedding venues, and hotel lodging.

Why Edgefield Is Considered Haunted

The property’s long use as a poor farm and institutional residence means thousands of lives — many filled with hardship, sorrow, and even premature death — passed through its buildings. It’s perhaps no surprise that many believe the energy of those decades remains embedded in the halls and rooms of Edgefield.

Guests and staff have reported numerous eerie experiences throughout the hotel and lodge buildings, including:

Eerie Voices & Whispers: Some guests report hearing disembodied voices, cries, or whispers, especially late at night or in empty hallways. One story tells of a woman on the upper floors singing or comforting a crying child at midnight.

Unseen Touches: Visitors have described the sensation of invisible hands pushing against shoulders, backs, or chests as they walk through the corridors.

Apparitions: Some witnesses claim to see figures — such as a small child running down a hallway or a woman dressed in period clothing — that disappear when approached.

Unexplained Sounds: Footsteps, doors opening or closing on their own, and sudden cold spots have all been attributed to paranormal activity by guests and staff alike.

One particularly chilling discovery occurred during renovations when workers found animal bones arranged in a pentagram‑like pattern in one of the rooms. While there’s no definitive explanation for the bones or their arrangement, the finding contributed to Edgefield’s already eerie reputation.

Local lore also speaks of unmarked graves across the property — including those of a young mother and her child who reportedly succumbed to illness and were buried on site. Some believe their spirits still wander, drawn to the land where they spent their final days.

Edgefield Today

Today, Edgefield is both a thriving entertainment destination and a magnet for ghost enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy fine dining, listen to live music, play golf, relax in gardens, or spend the night in one of the historic buildings. Yet for many, the supernatural experiences — whether subtle or spine‑tingling — are part of what makes Edgefield so unforgettable.

Whether you chalk it up to suggestion, imagination, or something truly unexplained, there’s no denying that thousands of lives and stories are wrapped up in this Oregon landmark. And some say the spirits of Edgefield’s past are still very much present.

Address: 2126 SW Halsey Street, Troutdale, OR 97060
County: Multnomah County
Public Access: Yes — hotel, restaurants, entertainment areas open to the public
Part of: McMenamins Edgefield historic complex

The Haunting of the Seabrook‑Wilson House (The Spy House), NJ

Port Monmouth, Middletown Township, Monmouth County, New Jersey

Photo: Wikipedia

Standing on the windswept shores of Sandy Hook Bay, the Seabrook‑Wilson House — better known locally as the “Spy House” — is one of the oldest surviving homes in New Jersey and one of the most intriguing haunted locations in the Garden State. With roots reaching back to the early 1700s, this battered clapboard farmhouse carries with it centuries of American history, folklore, and ghostly legend.

History of the House

The Seabrook‑Wilson House began as a modest cabin constructed in the early 1700s and later expanded by the Seabrook family and, later, the Wilsons. Over roughly 250 years, generations of ship captains, merchants, and local leaders called this home. It remained a private residence until the early 20th century.

Port Monmouth grew up around the old homestead as salt marshes and farmland gave way to steamboat commerce and fishing piers. By the early 1900s the house was operating as an inn and boarding house before falling into disrepair. In the 1960s concerned locals worked to save it, and it later became part of the Monmouth County Park System, now preserved as a historic site within Bayshore Waterfront Park.

Legend of the “Spy House”

The nickname “Spy House” grew out of local lore rather than documented fact. In the 1960s, a caretaker promoted the idea that the home had served as a tavern during the Revolutionary War where British troops gathered — and that colonial sympathizers used the opportunity to glean military secrets from drunken soldiers. While this makes a compelling story, historians have found no evidence that the house was a tavern at that time or that it played an official espionage role.

Haunted Stories & Paranormal Sightings

Despite the murky origins of the Spy House tales, the Seabrook‑Wilson House grew a reputation for being haunted — and some of its ghost stories have become legendary in the New Jersey paranormal community.

The White Lady: One of the most enduring figures seen in or around the house is a woman dressed in white — sometimes said to be searching for a crying baby or wandering through empty rooms.

Ghostly Boy: Visitors have reported the sight of a small child peering from upstairs windows as though watching those below.

The Sea Captain: Another specter often reported is an old sailor or sea captain wandering the property or the house’s interior — a haunting perhaps tied to the property’s maritime past.

Captain Morgan: Rumors have grown over time that a British revolutionary soldier nicknamed Captain Morgan met a violent end in the basement, and that his spirit lingers there — a story reinforced through anecdotal accounts of cold spots and sudden chills deep beneath the house.

Some visitors and paranormal enthusiasts claim to have captured strange phenomena such as disembodied voices, footsteps, or unexplained feelings of being watched. However, skeptics note that many of these reports are anecdotal and difficult to verify.

Today’s Spy House

Today, the Seabrook‑Wilson House is preserved as a historic landmark within the Monmouth County Park System’s Bayshore Waterfront Park. The house is open seasonally for tours and educational programs and stands as a testament to early American architecture and coastal life.

Although local historians have refuted many of the war‑era spy tales and some ghost stories, visitors continue to be drawn to the site by both its age and its legends. For some, it’s a tangible piece of America’s colonial past; for others, it’s a place where spirits of the past might still linger.

Address: 119 Port Monmouth Road, Port Monmouth, Middletown Township, NJ 07758
County: Monmouth County
Public Access: Yes, open seasonally April through October
Operated By: Monmouth County Park System

The Haunting of the Skirvin Hotel

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma — Oklahoma County

Photo: Wikipedia

If you're ever passing through Oklahoma City, you might be tempted to spend the night in one of the city’s most luxurious historic hotels — but fair warning: you may not get much sleep. The Skirvin Hotel, now operating as the Skirvin Hilton, is known not only for its elegance and charm, but also for its long-standing reputation as one of the most haunted places in the state of Oklahoma.

Built in 1911 by oil tycoon William Balser Skirvin, the hotel was a showpiece of modern luxury in its day — complete with electric elevators, air conditioning, and lavish furnishings that attracted celebrities, politicians, and socialites. Over the years, the hotel became woven into the city’s history, hosting presidents, movie stars, and more recently, NBA players. But beneath the glamor lies a darker story.

The most famous tale surrounding the Skirvin involves a mysterious woman named Effie — a maid who allegedly had an affair with Mr. Skirvin and became pregnant with his child. According to local legend, Skirvin was so concerned about scandal that he locked Effie away on the 10th floor, either in Room 1015 or another secluded part of the hotel, where she remained throughout her pregnancy.

As the story goes, Effie eventually fell into despair and leapt to her death — taking the baby with her. Ever since, guests have reported eerie encounters that seem to trace back to her spirit. People have claimed to hear a woman’s voice, crying, phantom footsteps, and even disembodied laughter echoing through the halls of the 10th floor. Male guests, in particular, have shared experiences of being touched, whispered to, or even propositioned by an unseen presence in their rooms.

It’s important to note that while Effie’s story has become deeply embedded in the hotel’s folklore, there is no historical evidence that proves such a maid ever existed — or that the events surrounding her death actually happened. Nevertheless, the legend persists, and the Room 1015 lore has become one of Oklahoma’s most enduring ghost stories.

The Skirvin's reputation is so widespread that professional basketball players from the NBA have publicly spoken about their uneasy stays at the hotel while playing against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Over the years, multiple players have refused to sleep alone, checked out early, or lost sleep before games — blaming doors opening on their own, lights flickering, and that same persistent sensation of not being alone. The ghostly lore even made its way into sports news headlines.

Other guests have shared reports of unseen forces tugging on bed sheets, toilets flushing by themselves, and furniture moving slightly during the night. One former employee once described seeing a shadowy figure disappear around a corner, only to find no one there.

The hotel underwent major restoration in 2007 and was reopened as the Skirvin Hilton, preserving much of its historic charm. But despite the fresh paint and modern amenities, the ghost stories have never stopped — if anything, they’ve only grown stronger with time.

Whether you believe in spirits or not, one thing is certain: The Skirvin Hotel is more than just a luxurious stopover — it's a place where the past lingers, and where legends like Effie continue to stir the imagination. If you do decide to spend the night, just don’t say you weren’t warned.

Address: 1 Park Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102

Phone: (405) 272-3040
Public Access: Yes — currently a functioning Hilton hotel
Tours: No official ghost tours, but guests may inquire about history at front desk

📰Ghostly Gazette: Haunted Buildings at Risk- When Ghosts Lose Their Homes

Across the United States, historic buildings long associated with paranormal activity are quietly disappearing. Some are condemned. Others are sold, redeveloped, or demolished outright. For paranormal researchers, historians, and local communities, the question is no longer whether a place is haunted — but whether it will survive long enough for its stories to be remembered.

History Meets the Wrecking Ball

Many of America’s most haunted locations share one thing in common: age. Old hospitals, jails, theaters, and mansions were built long before modern safety standards, and decades of neglect often leave them structurally unsound. City officials face difficult decisions — protect public safety, or preserve history.

In recent years, several well-known haunted sites have faced closure due to crumbling infrastructure, asbestos, fire hazards, or liability concerns. Once sealed, these buildings often sit in limbo — too dangerous to enter, too expensive to restore, and too historically significant to forget.

Haunted Places Under Threat

Yorktown Memorial Hospital (Texas) has been shuttered multiple times over safety concerns, despite national recognition as one of the most haunted hospitals in the country. Ownership changes have sparked hope for preservation, but uncertainty remains.

Historic county jails across the Midwest and South are increasingly being demolished or converted into office space. Paranormal teams report that activity often spikes during renovation — footsteps, banging cells, and shadow figures appearing in empty wings.

Old theaters and opera houses, once lively with music and applause, are especially vulnerable. When funding dries up, these cultural landmarks are often repurposed or lost entirely — along with the spirits said to linger in the balconies and backstage corridors.

What Happens to a Haunting When a Building Is Gone?

Paranormal investigators debate whether spirits are tied to the physical structure or to the land itself. Some believe hauntings dissipate when a building is destroyed. Others argue that activity simply relocates — following the emotional imprint left behind.

Former residents living near demolished haunted sites have reported continued phenomena: unexplained lights, sounds with no source, and recurring apparitions in newly built homes. These accounts raise unsettling questions about whether tearing down walls truly erases the past.

Preserving More Than Brick and Mortar

For communities, haunted buildings represent more than fear or curiosity. They are physical records of tragedy, resilience, and shared memory. When they vanish, stories vanish with them — unless someone takes the time to document, investigate, and remember.

As redevelopment accelerates nationwide, haunted heritage faces an uncertain future. Whether spirits remain or move on, one thing is certain: once a building is gone, there is no way to bring it back.

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Visitor & Preservation Notes

Important: Many at-risk haunted buildings are structurally unsafe. Never trespass or attempt investigations without official permission.

Support Preservation: Local historical societies, preservation trusts, and sanctioned tours help keep these sites standing — and their stories alive.

The Haunting of The Devil’s Tree in New Jersey

Bernards Township, Somerset County, New Jersey

Photo: Wikipedia

Standing alone in a quiet stretch of land in Somerset County is a solitary oak tree that locals have avoided for generations. Known simply as The Devil’s Tree, it carries a reputation far heavier than its branches. While it looks unremarkable at first glance, stories surrounding the tree have turned it into one of New Jersey’s most unsettling legends.

The tree’s isolation is part of what makes it unsettling. Unlike a forest where trees blend together, the Devil’s Tree stands apart, exposed and singular, drawing attention in a way that feels intentional. Over time, this lone presence has become the center of whispered warnings and uneasy folklore.

A History Wrapped in Legend

Several versions of the Devil’s Tree story have circulated for decades. One of the most frequently repeated claims is that the surrounding land was once used for violent acts, including executions or lynchings. According to legend, the suffering that occurred there permanently marked the tree and the ground beneath it.

Another version of the story tells of a local man who allegedly murdered his family and then took his own life by hanging himself from the tree. In some tellings, he cursed the land with his final breath, binding something dark to the oak that has never fully left.

As with many long-standing legends, there is no definitive historical record confirming these events took place at this exact location. However, the persistence of the stories — passed down through generations — has cemented the Devil’s Tree as a place people instinctively avoid.

Photo: Devil's Tree, by Sam O’Brien

Warnings and Unexplained Misfortune

Local folklore strongly warns against damaging the tree in any way. Those who have attempted to carve into the bark, break branches, or cut the tree down are said to have suffered immediate misfortune afterward. Reports include vehicles stalling or crashing shortly after leaving the area, unexplained injuries, and a sudden string of bad luck that begins the same day.

Because of repeated vandalism over the years, protective measures were eventually placed around the base of the tree. Even so, stories of consequences have continued to circulate, reinforcing the belief that the Devil’s Tree is not something to be tested.

Strange Details That Add to the Unease

Beyond its dark reputation, the Devil’s Tree is associated with a number of unusual physical details. Some claim the tree feels warm to the touch even during winter months. Others report an overwhelming sense of dread when standing nearby, as if being watched or unwelcome.

Perhaps the most visually striking detail appears in winter photographs. In several images, snow blankets the surrounding ground in thick layers, yet the base of the Devil’s Tree remains completely clear. A wide, sharply defined circle of bare earth surrounds the trunk, untouched by snow.

Photo: Mr Local History Project

About the Winter Melt

I'm no science expert so heres what I learned with research: From a scientific perspective, snow can melt faster around trees due to a combination of factors. Tree trunks and root systems can retain heat, dark bark can absorb sunlight even in colder months, and ground warmth beneath the soil can contribute to localized melting. Wind patterns and freeze–thaw cycles may also play a role.

That said, the depth of snow visible in these photographs — combined with the unusually wide and clean melt ring — has caused many observers to pause. While this effect may have a natural explanation, its appearance is striking and has only added to the Devil’s Tree’s unsettling reputation.

Writer’s note: As I said, I am not a scientist, but with snow appearing several inches deep and frozen throughout the surrounding area, the complete absence of even a light dusting near the trunk does seem unusual. Whether coincidence or simply an uncommon natural occurrence, it’s easy to understand why this detail has become part of the legend.

A Place Best Left Undisturbed

Today, the Devil’s Tree still stands — scarred, isolated, and surrounded by stories that refuse to fade. Some dismiss the legends entirely, while others believe the land holds a darkness born from human cruelty, fear, and memory. Whether cursed or simply misunderstood, the tree continues to unsettle those who know its story.

Important Notice: The Devil’s Tree is located on or near private property. The exact location is intentionally not provided. Landowners do not welcome visitors, and those who attempt to approach the site without permission may be removed or face trespassing charges. Respect for private property and local residents is essential.

The Haunting of The Biltmore Estate — Asheville, North Carolina

Buncombe County, Asheville, North Carolina

Photo: Wikipedia

Standing as the largest privately owned home in America, the Biltmore Estate is more than just a marvel of Gilded Age architecture — it's a haunting relic of wealth, isolation, and loss. Located in the misty Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, this sprawling 175,000-square-foot mansion was built between 1889 and 1895 by George Washington Vanderbilt II, a member of one of America’s wealthiest families. It was intended to be a peaceful retreat — but over time, shadows began to stretch across its elegant halls.

The estate houses 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, a massive library, indoor pool, bowling alley, and servant quarters that hint at the quiet labor force that kept the estate running behind the scenes. While the mansion was a place of grandeur, it was also one of solitude — and soon after George Vanderbilt’s untimely death in 1914, the house began earning a different kind of reputation.

Visitors and staff have long whispered of phantom voices echoing through the library, often described as George and his beloved wife Edith Vanderbilt still speaking in hushed tones. Guests have reported unseen footsteps on grand staircases, the feeling of being watched in empty rooms, and sudden cold drafts with no apparent source. Edith herself is said to still roam the halls, particularly in areas she favored, such as the gardens and the second-floor bedrooms. One staff member even claimed to see her in her favorite chair by the window, watching the sunset over the estate’s rolling hills.

In the basement, where the servants once moved like ghosts themselves, the atmosphere becomes heavier. Disembodied laughter, whispers, and the low hum of old machinery are commonly reported — even when the power is off. The indoor swimming pool, now drained, has given many visitors a sense of dread. Some say they’ve heard splashing, laughter, or even screams — though the room remains eerily empty. Paranormal researchers have speculated that a drowning may have occurred, though no official record confirms it. Still, the stories persist.

The estate also experienced deep family grief. George Vanderbilt died unexpectedly following an emergency appendectomy while aboard a ship in 1914. Edith, devastated, withdrew from public life and later sold portions of the estate’s land to the U.S. government — land that would eventually become part of Pisgah National Forest. Her sorrow is said to be imprinted on the walls of the home she fought to preserve.

Today, while the Biltmore is a popular tourist destination — offering wine tastings, garden tours, and holiday events — it continues to draw ghost hunters and believers from around the world. Many say that behind the polished woodwork and gilded mirrors, the past still lingers... and the house still breathes.

Would you walk its endless halls alone after dark?

True Hauntings of America

The Haunting of The Conjuring House: Darkness at the Arnold Estate

Harrisville, Providence County, Rhode Island

Photo: Pinterest

Few places have captured the modern imagination quite like the infamous Conjuring House in Harrisville, Rhode Island. Known today as the Arnold Estate, this 18th-century farmhouse became the centerpiece of one of the most chilling hauntings in American history — and the inspiration for the blockbuster film The Conjuring. But behind the Hollywood lights lies a tangled web of history, trauma, and deeply personal experiences that continue to haunt those who’ve stepped inside.

History of the Arnold Estate

Built around 1736, the farmhouse originally belonged to the Arnold family — a name tied to generations of Rhode Island settlers. The land itself is steeped in colonial history, with records suggesting the property once spanned over 200 acres. Over time, ownership changed hands, but eerie legends remained. Tragedies, deaths, and local lore would weave into the foundation of the estate long before the Perron family ever arrived.

The Perron Family Haunting

In 1971, Roger and Carolyn Perron moved into the house with their five daughters, unaware of the supernatural storm that awaited them. From their first days, the family experienced disturbing phenomena: beds shaking, objects moving, and disembodied voices echoing through empty rooms. One daughter reported seeing a spirit with a crooked neck watching her sleep. Carolyn was physically attacked on more than one occasion — slapped, bruised, and even pushed.

The family eventually came to believe the most malevolent presence in the home was a spirit known as Bathsheba Sherman — a woman rumored to have lived on the property in the 1800s. Local legends accused Bathsheba of witchcraft, even claiming she had sacrificed her own child to the Devil. While no historical records confirm this, the story stuck — and Bathsheba’s name became infamous in paranormal lore.

The Warrens Step In

As the activity escalated, the Perrons turned to famed paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. The Warrens conducted a series of investigations, claiming the house was plagued by multiple spirits — not just Bathsheba. During a séance conducted by Lorraine, Carolyn Perron reportedly became possessed, speaking in tongues and being thrown across the room. Terrified, Roger Perron ended the session and forbade the Warrens from returning.

The Perrons continued to live in the house for several years, enduring the haunting until they could afford to move out in 1980.

After the Perrons: Ongoing Activity

Since the Perrons’ departure, the house has changed hands many times. Each new owner brought renewed stories of whispers, shadow figures, slamming doors, and mysterious footsteps. Paranormal investigators, ghost hunting teams, and curious visitors have all documented activity — some mild, others terrifying. The home has drawn international attention and inspired countless documentaries and books.

In recent years, the house was opened to the public for overnight investigations, becoming a destination for paranormal tourism. Still, many believe that some energies within the home remain hostile — and that the house itself chooses who it will affect.

The Conjuring Legacy

In 2013, the story of the Perron family’s ordeal was adapted into The Conjuring, launching one of the most successful horror franchises in modern cinema. Though the film took creative liberties, it brought global attention to the Arnold Estate and immortalized the Perron family’s experience. Today, the house is forever linked to America’s paranormal history — both real and imagined.

Would You Dare?

Whether you believe the stories or not, there's no denying the Conjuring House has a dark energy that draws people in. Some call it cursed. Others believe it’s a portal. But one thing’s certain — visitors rarely leave unchanged.

© True Hauntings of America

The Haunting of Point Lookout Lighthouse – Maryland’s Haunted Beacon

Scotland, St. Mary’s County, Maryland

Photo: Wikipedia

Where the Potomac meets the Chesapeake, a lonely lighthouse stands against the fog. Point Lookout Lighthouse, nestled at the southernmost tip of Maryland, is one of the most paranormally active sites on the East Coast — and one of the state’s most infamous haunted locations.

Built in 1830, the lighthouse served as a vital warning post for ships navigating the treacherous waters of the bay. But its idyllic shoreline hides a tragic past. During the Civil War, Point Lookout became home to a Union military hospital and a sprawling prisoner-of-war camp that held more than 50,000 Confederate soldiers. Disease, malnutrition, and overcrowding led to thousands of deaths. The spirits of those who perished are said to linger — not just in the remains of the camp, but within the lighthouse itself.

Witnesses have reported unexplained cold spots, flickering lights, disembodied footsteps, and the smell of gunpowder. One of the most famous spirits is that of a Confederate soldier, seen pacing the beach with a rifle in hand. Another frequently encountered apparition is that of a woman in a long skirt, thought to be Ann Davis, a former lighthouse keeper who died in the home and still checks the windows to this day.

Even the U.S. government has acknowledged the strange occurrences here — Point Lookout was featured in a Department of Natural Resources report after extensive paranormal investigations. With so many documented reports of voices, music, shadows, and figures seen by rangers and guests alike, it’s no surprise that this lighthouse has earned its ghostly reputation.

Today, the lighthouse is maintained by the Point Lookout Lighthouse Preservation Society and is open for tours on select dates. But even in the daylight, many visitors claim to feel they are not alone — and those who stay after dark often leave with stories they’ll never forget.

Would you spend the night at Point Lookout Lighthouse? Maryland’s most haunted beacon is still calling across the water.

📰 Ghostly Gazette: Most Haunted States 2025 Ranking

🏴‍☠️ America’s Most Haunted States: The 2025 Ranking Is In!

The Spirits Have Spoken: America’s Top 10 Haunted States of 2025

If you've ever felt a cold chill crawl up your spine or heard unexplained footsteps in an empty hallway — you’re not alone. Every year, new reports flood in from across the country, and now the latest data is in. Paranormal researchers, ghost hunters, and tourism analysts have updated the rankings for America’s Most Haunted States of 2025.

Here are the eerie leaders of the year — ranked by verified paranormal activity, number of haunted locations, ghost tourism growth, and infamous legends:

#1 — Louisiana

• Why: Haunted cemeteries, voodoo roots, the French Quarter, and the infamous LaLaurie Mansion
• Hotspots: New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Plantation Houses
• Reputation: Steeped in supernatural tradition. Louisiana reclaims the crown in 2025.

#2 — Pennsylvania

• Why: Gettysburg alone keeps it near the top, but throw in haunted prisons and historic battlefields, and you’ve got ghosts galore.
• Hotspots: Eastern State Penitentiary, Gettysburg, Centralia
• Reputation: Civil War spirits, underground fires, and dark colonial history.

#3 — Massachusetts

• Why: The Salem Witch Trials continue to echo, and nearly every old inn in the state has a ghost story.
• Hotspots: Salem, Boston, Fall River (Lizzie Borden House)
• Reputation: Witchcraft, sea captains, and Puritan spirits.

#4 — California

• Why: Haunted hotels, theaters, missions, and even highways.
• Hotspots: Alcatraz, Queen Mary, Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel
• Reputation: Glamor and ghosts go hand in hand.

#5 — West Virginia

• Why: Home to one of the most terrifying prisons in America and the legend of the Mothman.
• Hotspots: Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, Moundsville Penitentiary, Point Pleasant
• Reputation: Appalachian folklore meets real-life haunts.

#6 — Florida

• Why: Sun, sand… and spectral sailors, pirates, and conquistadors.
• Hotspots: St. Augustine, Key West, Tampa’s haunted hotels
• Reputation: The oldest city in the U.S. is also one of the most haunted.

#7 — Texas

• Why: Big land, big history, big haunts.
• Hotspots: The Alamo, Jefferson, San Antonio
• Reputation: Old West ghosts and battlefield echoes.

#8 — New York

• Why: From colonial ghosts to haunted asylums.
• Hotspots: The Amityville House, Rolling Hills Asylum, Sleepy Hollow
• Reputation: Urban legends thrive upstate and downstate alike.

#9 — Illinois

• Why: Classic hauntings and historic tragedy.
• Hotspots: Bachelor's Grove Cemetery, Joliet Prison, Resurrection Mary
• Reputation: Midwest ghosts with chilling backstories.

#10 — Nevada

• Why: Abandoned mining towns and haunted opera houses bring a ghostly flair to the desert.
• Hotspots: Virginia City, Piper’s Opera House, Goldfield Hotel
• Reputation: Western spirits, Wild West echoes, and lingering showgirls.

Ghost Tourism Is Booming

Haunted tours, overnight stays in historic homes, paranormal podcasts, and ghost hunting shows have turned eerie experiences into booming business. States like West Virginia and Nevada are seeing surges in tourism due to ghostly legends being revitalized online.

The Bottom Line

Whether you're a thrill-seeker, ghost hunter, or just someone who loves a good spine-tingling story, these ten states are your roadmap to paranormal adventure in 2025. But remember — not all spirits are welcoming, and not every knock in the night has a natural explanation.

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The Haunting of Piper’s Opera House in Nevada

Virginia City, Storey County, Nevada

Photo: Wikipedia

Nestled high in the hills of Virginia City, Piper’s Opera House isn’t just a relic of the Wild West — it’s one of the most iconic haunted theaters in America. Built in the 1880s after two earlier versions were destroyed by fire, this historic venue has hosted legends like Mark Twain and Lillie Langtry, all while building a reputation for its ghostly residents.

Visitors and staff alike have reported unexplained footsteps echoing through empty hallways, shadowy figures flitting behind stage curtains, and the overwhelming feeling of being watched. The balcony is especially active — many believe a former actor or patron never left, still enjoying the show from the best seat in the house.

One of the most chilling tales involves a woman in period dress who appears during rehearsals, silently watching from the back rows before vanishing without a trace. Lights flicker, props move on their own, and cold spots plague certain areas of the building no matter the season.

Today, Piper’s Opera House continues to hold performances, tours, and ghost investigations — embracing its spirited legacy. Whether you're there for the history or the hauntings, one thing’s for sure: the curtain never really falls at Piper’s.

Address: 12 B Street, Virginia City, NV 89440
Website: pipersoperahouse.com
Tours: Offered regularly — check the site for hours and ghost investigation dates.

Whether you come for the legends or linger for the ghosts, Piper’s Opera House reminds us that in Virginia City… the past never truly dies.

The Lizzie Borden House: America's Most Infamous Murder Mystery

Photo: Wikipedia

In the quiet town of Fall River, Massachusetts, stands a home with a reputation that has endured for over a century—a house steeped in blood, suspicion, and the lingering whispers of restless spirits. This is the Lizzie Borden House, the site of one of the most brutal and controversial murders in American history. Today, the home operates as both a museum and a bed and breakfast, attracting curious visitors, ghost hunters, and brave souls who seek to experience the paranormal firsthand.

The Crime That Shook a Nation

On the morning of August 4, 1892, Andrew Borden and his wife, Abby, were found gruesomely murdered inside their home. Andrew had been struck 10–11 times in the face with a hatchet while napping on the sofa. Abby was attacked first, upstairs in the guest room, receiving 18–19 brutal blows to the back of her head. The sheer savagery of the crime stunned the country—and the quiet, churchgoing daughter, Lizzie Borden, became the prime suspect.

Photo: Wikipedia

Photo: Wikipedia

Lizzie was arrested and stood trial in 1893, but despite circumstantial evidence and national attention, she was acquitted. Many believed her wealth, gender, and social status played a role in the verdict. Others thought the evidence simply wasn’t strong enough. But the mystery remains: if Lizzie didn’t do it… who did?

A House That Holds Its Secrets

The Lizzie Borden House has become a landmark of American true crime history, but it’s also gained a dark reputation for ghostly activity. Guests and staff alike have reported cold spots, phantom footsteps, and unexplained voices. Some say the spirits of Andrew and Abby still haunt the home, seeking justice. Others believe Lizzie herself lingers, forever tied to the place where her name became infamous.

The most active room in the house is said to be the guest room where Abby was murdered. Paranormal investigators have captured EVPs (electronic voice phenomena), strange shadows, and even full-body apparitions. The parlor, where Andrew met his end, is equally charged with residual energy. Objects move on their own, and cold drafts seem to appear from nowhere.

Photo: Wikipedia

Spend the Night—If You Dare

For the bravest of travelers, the Lizzie Borden House offers overnight stays. Guests can sleep in the same rooms where the murders occurred, tour the meticulously preserved home, and participate in ghost hunts. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, it's an experience that leaves a lasting impression.

More than just a museum, the Lizzie Borden House is a living relic of the past—a chilling blend of history, mystery, and supernatural lore that continues to draw thousands each year. And perhaps, just perhaps, the spirits are still trying to tell their side of the story.

Address: 230 Second Street, Fall River, Massachusetts
Phone: (508) 675-7333
Website: lizzie-borden.com
Public Access: Yes, museum tours and overnight stays available

Whether you visit to pay homage to a dark piece of American history, or to see if you can catch a glimpse of the other side—just remember: not all spirits rest in peace.

Lizzie Borden- Photo: Wikipedia

📰 Ghostly Gazette: Haunted Hotels 2025: Where Guests Check In… and Spirits Never Check Out

United States — National Report

A new 2025 roundup of America’s most haunted hotels is making waves in the paranormal community, ranking historic inns and grand old lodges where ghostly guests still roam the halls after dark. These hotels aren’t just famous for their architecture—they’re known for full-bodied apparitions, disembodied footsteps, icy cold spots, and the kind of whispers no living person should be making.

America’s Most Haunted Stays: 2025 Edition

The list, compiled by dark-tourism researchers and heritage travel writers, highlights hotels where paranormal encounters are as common as room-service orders. According to the 2025 report, here are the properties topping the charts:

• The Stanley Hotel — Estes Park, Colorado
  Famous for inspiring The Shining, it remains one of America’s most active paranormal hotspots. Guests report phantom laughter, luggage unzipping itself, and children playing in empty hallways.
• The Crescent Hotel — Eureka Springs, Arkansas
  Built in 1886 and once used as a fraudulent cancer hospital, this location hosts specters in Victorian attire, a haunted morgue, and temperature anomalies throughout the grounds.
• Hotel Monte Vista — Flagstaff, Arizona
  Known for a phantom bellboy knocking on doors, shadowy figures at the foot of beds, and a haunted room so active it must be monitored between guests.
• The Omni Parker House — Boston, Massachusetts
  America’s oldest continually operating hotel, home to apparitions in antique mirrors and the spirit of legendary founder Harvey Parker, who still “checks” on guests.
• The Mizpah Hotel — Tonopah, Nevada
  “The Lady in Red” haunts the top floor, leaving the scent of roses behind. Guests report footsteps following them, cold hands brushing their arms, and whispers in empty rooms.

While some hotels embrace their haunted reputation with themed tours and ghost-hunter weekends, others prefer to keep their spectral guests a quiet secret. Still, in 2025, the rise of dark tourism shows that travelers crave mystery—and America’s haunted hotels offer plenty of it.

Why Haunted Hotels Continue to Thrive

Experts say the appeal lies in the combination of old architecture, tragedy, and the simple thrill of sleeping where spirits allegedly roam. Social media has amplified these stories, with videos, EVPs, and guest testimonies going viral.

For many travelers, these hotels offer more than a night’s stay—they offer a chance to brush shoulders with the unknown.

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Hotel Information

These hotels are open to the public and accept reservations year-round. Ghost tours, if offered, vary by location and season. Always check each hotel’s official website for tour schedules, paranormal events, and booking policies.

Note: Paranormal activity is unpredictable. Respect hotel rules, staff instructions, and posted investigation guidelines.

The Haunting of Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa — Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs, Garland County, Arkansas

Photo: Wikipedia

Nestled in the heart of Hot Springs National Park, the Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa isn’t just a luxury destination — it’s one of the most paranormally active places in Arkansas. With a past stretching back to 1875, this grand hotel has survived fires, hosted presidents, and welcomed infamous figures like Al Capone. And some say it still hosts... guests who never left.

The current building — the third incarnation of the Arlington — opened in 1924, and its elegant 1920s design masks a legacy of tragedy, mystery, and ghostly encounters. From the moment you enter the grand lobby, you can feel it: this is no ordinary hotel.

One of the most talked-about areas is Room 443, famously favored by gangster Al Capone. Guests who stay there report cold drafts, strange shadows, flickering lights, and the sound of muffled voices through the walls — even when no one else is nearby. It’s said Capone even had a private escape route out of the hotel... but perhaps his spirit never took it.

The fourth, seventh, and eighth floors are also rife with supernatural activity. Elevators operate on their own. Doors open and slam shut without explanation. Some guests feel sudden cold spots or the eerie sensation of being watched. Others claim to have seen a woman in white wandering the halls — a spirit whose identity remains unknown to this day.

Hotel employees have told stories of a ghostly former staff member who still performs his duties after death, especially near the laundry and maintenance areas. Whispers in empty corridors, phantom footsteps, and vanishing figures are all part of the Arlington experience for those attuned to the otherworldly.

With its historic mineral springs baths, ties to organized crime, and luxurious facade, the Arlington is both a glamorous getaway and a haunted haven. Visitors come for the charm... but some leave with stories they can’t quite explain.

Are the spirits tied to the land's ancient healing waters? Or do they stem from the hotel’s long and complicated past?

One thing is certain — the Arlington’s ghosts aren’t just part of the legend. To many who visit, they’re still very real.

Address: 239 Central Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901
Phone: (501) 623-7771
Public access: Yes, open to guests.

The Haunting of Alcatraz Island: Spirits Behind the Bars

Photo: Wikipedia

San Francisco Bay, California — Few places in America have a reputation as chilling and mysterious as Alcatraz Island. Known as "The Rock," this isolated former prison is more than just a symbol of America's most hardened criminals — it's a place steeped in sorrow, isolation, and ghostly whispers from the past.

Originally used as a military fort, Alcatraz became a federal prison in 1934 and quickly gained notoriety for its strict rules and escape-proof location. It held some of the most infamous inmates in U.S. history — including Al Capone, George "Machine Gun" Kelly, and Robert Stroud, the "Birdman of Alcatraz." But not all who entered left. Some died by suicide. Others in failed escape attempts. And some — if stories are to be believed — never left at all.

Visitors, staff, and even skeptics have reported eerie experiences while touring the abandoned prison. Cold spots, strange voices, footsteps in empty halls, and the sound of sobbing or clinking chains have all been noted, particularly in Cell Block D — also known as "the Hole" — where prisoners were kept in total darkness for days at a time.

One of the most famous ghost tales involves cell 14D. A prisoner reportedly screamed all night about a creature with glowing eyes. By morning, he was dead — strangled in a locked cell. Guards joked it was the Grim Reaper. Others weren’t so sure.

Al Capone, once a proud and arrogant gangster, reportedly feared he was being haunted by someone he had wronged. He begged guards to protect him from a ghost he said followed him everywhere, even while he played banjo in the prison shower.

Even the Native Americans who briefly occupied the island during a protest in the 1960s claimed the land was cursed, long before it became a penitentiary. They reported evil spirits and a darkness that made many of them refuse to stay overnight.

Today, Alcatraz is a popular tourist attraction run by the National Park Service, but its haunted reputation draws more than just history buffs. Paranormal investigators from around the world have explored the crumbling cells, hoping to capture evidence of what might still linger behind those iron bars.

With its chilling energy, brutal past, and endless ghost stories, Alcatraz remains one of America's most haunted locations. It’s a place where silence speaks volumes — and the spirits may never stop pacing their cells.

Visitor Info

• Location: Alcatraz Island, San Francisco Bay, CA
• Managed by: National Park Service
• Tours: Ferry tours depart daily from Pier 33, San Francisco
• Phone: (415) 561-4900
• Website: https://www.nps.gov/alca/

📰 Lights Up… and Spirits Stir: Historic Rialto Theater Reopens to New Hauntings

Cedar Grove, Illinois

After two years of restoration, the 1924 Rialto Theater reopened this fall to sold-out crowds, glowing chandeliers, and something else entirely—new sightings of a shadowy figure appearing in Box Row A. Locals say the renovations may have awakened memories… or the ghosts who never left.

Theater Reborn, Legend Rekindled

Originally built as a vaudeville stage and silent-film palace, the Rialto stood for decades as the town’s brightest landmark. But after shuttering in 1998 due to structural decay, the once-grand venue fell into silence. This year’s multimillion-dollar restoration restored its marble lobby, red velvet seats, and carved balcony railings—bringing back the theater’s beauty but also, according to witnesses, its hauntings.

During the reopening gala in late October, an usher reported seeing “a man in a long coat” seated alone in Box Row A, overlooking the stage. When she approached to check his ticket, the box was empty. Several performers later claimed they glimpsed the same silhouette watching rehearsals from the upper balcony.

Backstage workers also describe cold spots drifting near the wings, soft footsteps crossing the stage after hours, and a faint humming—like someone warming up for a song—that echoes through the dressing-room corridor.

A Haunting Rooted in History

The Rialto’s most persistent legend centers on Edward “Eddie” Marlowe, a vaudeville performer who collapsed during a 1931 matinee and died before reaching the hospital. Some say his spirit lingers in the theater, still seeking the applause he never finished earning.

Restoration crews reported unusual activity long before opening night. Tools vanished and reappeared in odd places. A chandelier in the upper lobby flickered wildly whenever cold drafts swept through—despite sealed windows and updated wiring. “It was like someone was walking past it,” one electrician recalled.

Now that the Rialto is open once more, paranormal investigators expect the activity to continue—and possibly intensify—as crowds return, lights rise, and the building comes alive again.

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Visitor Information

Location: Rialto Theater, 118 East Main Street, Cedar Grove, IL

Status: Open for shows, tours, and community events

Ghost Tours: Monthly candlelight tours begin December 2025 (tickets required)

Note: The balcony and box seats are active performance areas—remain respectful, follow staff instructions, and no private investigations without permission.

The Conjure Chest – Kentucky's Haunted Heirloom

Kentucky (originally Louisville area)

Status: Privately owned; not on public display
Object Type: Antique Mahogany Chest of Drawers
Reputation: Cursed. Said to cause death and misfortune to anyone who touches or interacts with it.

There’s an old belief that spirits can attach to places. But what happens when they don’t need a house to dwell in? What happens when they cling to something smaller... something that can be passed from one person to the next, carrying misfortune like a shadow that never fades?

In the heart of Kentucky folklore, there is a tale whispered with unease — the legend of the Conjure Chest. Unlike most haunted stories rooted in place, this one follows a cursed object — a beautiful, handcrafted mahogany chest said to be steeped in death, grief, and Southern hoodoo.

The story begins in the 1800s, when a wealthy man named Jacob Cooley commissioned an enslaved man named Remus to build a chest for his soon-to-be-born son. But when the finished product failed to meet Cooley’s expectations, he responded with fury, beating Remus to death. That brutal act of violence — steeped in cruelty and injustice — would become the seed of the curse.

Remus’s fellow enslaved people, stricken with grief and rage, called upon the powers of conjure magic, an African-American spiritual practice rooted in hoodoo. They are said to have placed a powerful hex on the chest, binding Jacob Cooley’s lineage and all who possessed it to suffering and death.

And so began a string of tragedies spanning generations.

The very son for whom the chest was built died young. Others who touched it or used it — whether to store blankets, keepsakes, or clothes — were met with sudden illness, accidents, or suicides. Over time, at least 17 deaths have been linked to the chest, including close family members and those merely near the cursed piece of furniture.

Some victims were children. Others were adults with bright futures — until their fates turned dark shortly after encountering the chest.

In a desperate attempt to break the chain of sorrow, the family eventually turned to a spiritual rootworker in New Orleans. She performed a ritual to bind the malevolent energy. Her work included placing protective charms and blessed items inside one of the drawers — an act meant to quiet the restless spirits that still lingered.

It’s said her ritual may have helped — though the chest was never fully free of its eerie presence.

Today, the Conjure Chest resides not in some dusty attic, but in the archives of the Kentucky History Museum, carefully stored away out of public view. Even curators handle it with extreme caution. The museum acknowledges the chest’s dark past — and warns visitors that it is not an object to be taken lightly.

Some claim the curse has gone dormant. Others believe it is merely waiting for someone to disturb it again.

What’s most chilling is not just the deaths, but the pattern — an invisible thread of misfortune that has followed this piece of wood for over a century. No creaking floors. No flickering lights. Just death, despair, and eerie coincidence — packed tightly into a chest that should have been a family heirloom… but became a coffin of curses.

So if you ever come across a beautiful old chest with an air of sorrow around it… you might want to think twice before opening its drawers.

Because some spirits don’t need a home to haunt.
Sometimes… they just need a place to hide.

The Haunting of Canyon Hill Cemetery in Idaho

Caldwell, Canyon County, daho

Photo: City of Caldwell

On a windswept hill overlooking Caldwell, Idaho, lies one of the state's eeriest graveyards — the Canyon Hill Cemetery. What seems like a peaceful resting place by day transforms into a realm of legend, ghost stories, and paranormal intrigue once the sun sets.

The most infamous spirit tied to Canyon Hill is known simply as "The Midnight Jogger." Locals swear that if you park your car near the cemetery gates at night and wait in silence, you may hear the soft padding of footsteps… followed by a spectral figure jogging past your vehicle. The ghostly runner never looks at you, never stops — just passes by and vanishes into thin air. No one knows exactly who the Midnight Jogger was in life, but the legend has persisted for decades, and brave souls still visit in hopes of catching a glimpse.

Others claim the cemetery is haunted by the spirits of those whose graves were forgotten, left untended and overgrown. Cold spots, flickering lights, and disembodied whispers are common experiences for ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts who dare to explore after dark. One chilling account comes from a local woman who visited the grave of her grandmother — only to hear her name whispered clearly into her ear when no one else was present. She fled the site and never returned after dusk.

The cemetery's layout adds to the unsettling atmosphere. Twisting roads, cracked headstones, and uneven paths give Canyon Hill a sense of timeless abandonment, even though it’s still in use today. The highest point of the hill is said to be the most active — a spot where several ghost hunters have recorded strange EMF spikes and unexplained voices.

For those who feel brave enough to explore, Canyon Hill offers not just a graveyard, but a glimpse into the shadows of the unknown. The cemetery serves as a reminder that not all souls rest easy… and not every jogger at midnight is among the living.

Address: Canyon Hill Cemetery, 2024 N Illinois Ave, Caldwell, ID 83605
Phone: (208) 455-3073
Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk. No nighttime access allowed.

Note: Visitors are encouraged to be respectful and refrain from entering the cemetery after hours. Paranormal activity is reported, but trespassing is illegal. Visit during open hours if you'd like to explore the area.

📰 The Ghostly Gazette:Paranormal Team Purchases Texas’ Infamous Yorktown Memorial Hospital

Yorktown, Texas

One of Texas’ most legendary haunted sites is stepping back into the spotlight. The long-abandoned Yorktown Memorial Hospital—a grim, echoing labyrinth rumored to be home to violent spirits—has been officially purchased by San Antonio’s paranormal research group Curious Twins Tours. Their announcement includes plans for ghost hunts, overnight investigations, and filmed events within the hospital’s decaying halls.

A Hospital Built for Healing… That Became a Haven for Hauntings

Constructed in the 1950s and operated by the Felician Sisters, Yorktown Memorial Hospital served the small Texas community for decades before shutting down in 1986. Since then, its peeling walls, collapsed ceilings, and unlit corridors have drawn national attention for an entirely different reason: the dead never seemed to leave.

Over the years, ghost hunters have reported shadow figures rushing down hallways, disembodied growls, and unseen hands tugging at clothing. The hospital’s chapel—once a sanctuary—has a reputation for sudden cold spots and whispered warnings that seem to come from the pews themselves.

Some investigators claim the most active area is the former ICU, where voices have been recorded answering direct questions. Others point to the basement, where equipment has been thrown, batteries drain instantly, and visitors report an overwhelming sense of being watched.

A New Chapter for a Notorious Landmark

Curious Twins Tours says their goal is preservation, not provocation. With controlled access, structural monitoring, and guided sessions, they hope to offer safe encounters with one of the nation’s most intense paranormal hotspots. According to their announcement, future events will include:

• Night-long paranormal investigations
• Small-group tours with historical context
• Filming opportunities for documentaries and paranormal shows
• Restoration efforts to stabilize the most damaged sections

The group emphasized respect for the hospital’s history and the people who once lived—and died—within its walls. But as paranormal teams prepare to enter the building again, many wonder what has been waiting in the dark all these years… and whether the spirits welcome company.

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Visitor Information

Location: Yorktown Memorial Hospital, 728 W. Main St., Yorktown, TX

Status: Privately owned by Curious Twins Tours

Events: Scheduled ghost hunts, guided investigations, and filmed sessions (dates released through Curious Twins Tours)

Note: The building is structurally unsafe in areas. No public access without official tour booking. Do not trespass.

The Haunting of the Winchester Mystery House

San Jose, Santa Clara County, California

Photo: Wikipedia

The Winchester Mystery House isn’t just a mansion—it’s a living, breathing riddle wrapped in ghost stories and bathed in tragedy. Located in the heart of San Jose, this sprawling Queen Anne-style Victorian mansion is one of the most bizarre and spine-chilling structures in the United States. A true American landmark, it has captivated paranormal investigators, historians, psychics, and curious visitors for over a century.

The story begins with a woman named Sarah Lockwood Pardee Winchester, the widow of William Wirt Winchester—heir to the Winchester Repeating Arms fortune. After the tragic deaths of her infant daughter and husband, Sarah was consumed by grief. A medium allegedly told her she was cursed by the spirits of those killed by Winchester rifles, and that the only way to appease them was to build… endlessly. She was warned that if the hammer ever stopped, so would her life.

So in 1886, Sarah bought an unfinished farmhouse in San Jose and began building—around the clock. The mansion grew to more than 160 rooms over 38 years of continuous construction. There were no blueprints. No master plan. Sarah was said to receive design instructions directly from the spirits each night during séances held in the home’s infamous “Seance Room.”

The result is an architectural maze that defies logic and invites the supernatural. Staircases lead to ceilings. Doors open into walls. Hallways twist and turn back on themselves. There are secret passages, upside-down pillars, windows inside floors, skylights in the middle of rooms, and stairs with uneven risers meant to confuse evil spirits.

But it’s not just the building that’s strange—many believe the house is genuinely haunted. Visitors and staff have reported ghostly apparitions, disembodied footsteps, cold spots, flickering lights, and doorknobs that turn on their own. Sarah’s spirit herself is rumored to still roam the halls, along with countless others who died because of her husband’s infamous invention.

Even skeptics are unnerved by the house’s heavy, restless energy. Some feel watched. Others claim to hear whispers or see flickers of movement out of the corner of their eye. One former employee quit on the spot after seeing a man in Victorian clothes walk through a wall. The Seance Room—hidden behind a secret passage and accessible only through a series of strange doorways—remains one of the most spiritually charged rooms in the home.

Sarah Winchester died in her sleep in 1922, and the hammer finally fell silent. But the house remained just as she left it—a confusing, haunted labyrinth filled with spiritual secrets and lingering sadness. To this day, people believe Sarah was both a grieving widow and a mystic medium, building a home not for comfort—but as a vessel for redemption… and survival.

The Winchester Mystery House continues to draw thousands of visitors annually. Paranormal investigators, tourists, skeptics, and thrill-seekers all walk its haunted halls, hoping to catch a glimpse of the spirit world that supposedly guided its construction.

Address: 525 S Winchester Blvd, San Jose, CA 95128

Phone: (408) 247-2101

Website: www.winchestermysteryhouse.com

Tours: Daily tours are available, including the Mansion Tour, Explore More Tour, and nighttime candlelight experiences.

Haunted Level: Off the charts. Don’t go alone.

If you love architectural oddities, historical tragedies, and good old-fashioned hauntings, this house delivers it all. Just beware—you may leave with more questions than answers… and not all spirits like to stay behind.

The Haunting of the McRaven House

Vicksburg, Warren County, Mississippi

Photo: Wikipedia

Known as the “most haunted house in Mississippi,” the McRaven House in Vicksburg is not only one of the oldest structures in the state—it’s also one of the most paranormally active. This historic landmark has earned national attention for its layered past and eerie energy. Originally built in 1797 as a simple two-room structure, the home was expanded twice—once in the 1830s and again in the 1840s—each time leaving behind more history, tragedy, and lingering spirits.

During the Civil War, the McRaven House served as a Confederate hospital, and its proximity to fierce battles during the Siege of Vicksburg sealed its fate as a house of suffering. Soldiers died within its walls, and the energy of their pain and passing is said to linger still. Visitors report sudden cold spots, phantom footsteps, disembodied voices, and the scent of pipe smoke with no logical source.

But it’s not just war-torn souls who walk these halls. The spirit of Mary Elizabeth Howard, the young bride of Sheriff Stephen Howard (who owned the house in the 1830s), is believed to remain. She died in the home shortly after childbirth at just 15 years old. Her apparition is often seen near the nursery window, watching over what once was her child’s room. Guests have reported hearing a woman’s soft weeping and glimpsing a pale figure in period clothing.

Other reported spirits include a gardener from the 1800s, a Civil War soldier in uniform, and a man who appears to be Sheriff Howard himself, occasionally pacing the balcony as if still keeping watch over the property.

With so many centuries of human drama—birth, death, war, love, and loss—it’s no wonder that McRaven House is considered a paranormal hotbed. Paranormal investigators have flocked to it for decades, capturing chilling EVP recordings, shadowy figures, and sudden EMF spikes that defy explanation.

Whether you come for the Civil War history, the authentic antebellum architecture, or the whispers of the past… one thing is certain: McRaven House is not just a relic of Mississippi history. It’s alive with memories that refuse to fade.

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Visitor Information

Address: 1445 Harrison St, Vicksburg, MS 39180

Phone: (601) 501-1336

Website: www.mcraven.com

Guided ghost tours and historic day tours are offered regularly. Check their website or call ahead to schedule your visit. Some say the spirits are more active at night…