The Haunting of Fort Delaware

New Castle County, Delaware City, Delaware

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.

The Haunting of Fort Gaines

Fort Gaines – Mobile County, Dauphin Island, Alabama

Photograph ©Andrew C. Bennett

Address:
51 Bienville Boulevard
Dauphin Island, Alabama 36528
(251) 861-6992
Website
Tour Information

Fort Gaines, initially established to bolster the nation's security, encountered numerous challenges in its early years. Situated perilously close to Mobile Bay, the original fort grappled with water intrusion during high tide. Additionally, land rights disputes posed a hurdle, though the military eventually secured ownership of the island.

In 1853, a new engineer, appalled by the dilapidated state and outdated plans, advocated for a fresh start. Consequently, a completely new fort, as envisioned by this engineer, was completed in 1858.

The Civil War marked a pivotal period for Fort Gaines, serving as a central hub for blockade running. The turning point occurred in 1864 during the Battle of Mobile Bay, where Union Army commanders, Admiral David Farragut and Major General Gordon Granger, directed a fleet of fourteen ships to close down the fort.

Despite the vigorous defense from Fort Gaines, Admiral Farragut issued the memorable order, "Damn the torpedoes! Full steam ahead!" The Union forces prevailed, and Fort Gaines surrendered, avoiding hand-to-hand combat.

Throughout its history, Fort Gaines played roles in the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II, adapting to various military needs. Presently, the Coast Guard maintains a base at Fort Gaines, ensuring its continued service.

Tragically, the site witnessed the deaths of many, with approximately 1,800 casualties in the Battle of Mobile Bay alone. Dubbed "Massacre Island," it is no wonder that the fort is shrouded in the eerie presence of angry, restless spirits.

Numerous visitors and employees have reported encounters with apparitions of former Confederate and Union soldiers roaming the grounds, some captured on film by paranormal investigators. Another spectral figure, identified as a soldier, is said to trail individuals within the fort until they exit through the front gates, leaving an unmistakable presence behind. Ghostly phenomena, including chilling cold spots and unexplained footsteps, add to the haunting ambiance.

The MTV show "Fear" even delved into the paranormal at Fort Gaines, recounting sightings of a Native American woman draped in animal skins and blood. The show shed light on the harrowing events, revealing that storms on Dauphin Island sometimes wash up more bones of departed soldiers. Particularly tragic was the revelation that a collapsed tunnel entombed Native American slaves, chained together and buried alive, their remains never removed. The show also detailed the grim fate of soldiers drowning in an underground pipe during a desperate attempt to escape the fort when high tide unexpectedly flooded their route.