Southern Ghost Stories

Since Washington Irvin published "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" in 1820, tales of a headless horseman have fascinated people all over the globe. But did you know that there is actually a story of one in McClean County, Kentucky? It all started with a skirmish during the Civil War. And strangely, the soldier didn't lose his head while fighting. It happened the next day in a completely unrelated way. For more eerie tales from Kentucky, please check out Ghost Stories & Graveyard Tales: Kentucky available at Amazon or anywhere you find books.

From secret tunnels used during the Civil War to ghosts, incredible stories abound in the Nashville City Cemetery.  Join us as we dig into the haunted history of the historic burial ground in Music City.

In the late 19th century, odd things began happening on Barrow Hill, one of the largest hills in Nashville. It was believed that due to its history as a prison during the Civil War as well as a shootout between police and a bootlegger may have been the reason why it was incredibly haunted. From a headless woman to strange, unsettling sounds, Barrow Hill was believed to be one of the most haunted places in Nashville before the city grew and built over it.

Ernst Doepke was not making much money cleaning privies and vaults in the late 19th century. However, he was an astute businessmen who saw an opportunity when St. Louis medical colleges needed bodies for their students to dissect. Join us today as we dive into "The Prince of Body Snatchers", Ernst Doepke.For more on St. Louis' dark history, please check out our book, "Ghost Stories & Graveyard Tales: St. Louis".

According to St. Louis lore, Creve Couer Lake is haunted by the tormented spirit of a Native American princess who is drawn to young lovers who dare to venture close to the water. Why is she there? Who is she? Join us as we dive into the old Indian legend.For more on St. Louis' haunted history, please check out our book, "Ghost Stories & Graveyard Tales: St. Louis".

Steeped in history, Philadelphia is one of the haunted places in the United States. In this episode, we are going back to the 18th and 19th century to dig into some eerie tales around an old mill that was supplying General George Washington's men with tainted flour and corn meal. Also, we are going to talk about the old Mifflin Mansion, the home of the first governor of Pennslvania, from secret tunnels to spooky tales, the historic manor is a forgotten part of Philadelphia folklore.Be sure to check out the Southern Ghost Stories book over at Amazon.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is home to a ton of history as well as some of the eeriest ghost stories in the nation. Today we are digging into a few of my favorite tales and legends from the 19th century.Be sure to check out the book, "Southern Ghost Stories: Philadelphia"!

Step back in time to centuries past and uncover the haunted history of Rock Castle in Sumner County, Tennessee. From its origins amidst the untamed wilderness of the late 18th century to its status as a cherished landmark today, Rock Castle has witnessed a wealth of triumphs, tragedies, and secrets.Join us as we journey through the lives of the Smith family, who carved out a home in the rugged landscape and left an indelible mark on the region. Learn about Daniel Smith, the visionary land surveyor turned public servant, and his daughter Polly, whose forbidden romance with Samuel Donelson captivated hearts and sparked intrigue.But beyond the tales of love and ambition lies a more mysterious side to Rock Castle. Explore the whispers of ghostly apparitions that are said to haunt its halls, from the restless spirit of Harry Smith to the lingering presence of a servant named Sallie. Delve into the legends of former slaves whose spectral figures are said to still roam the estate, tending to the echoes of the past.For more stories about Hendersonville, Tennessee, please check out my book, "Southern Ghost Stories: Hendersonville, Tennessee."

Hidden away underneath Lookout Mountain you will find Ruby Falls, a popular tourist attraction. The cave has history and there are rumors that it is very haunted. Find out the haunted history of Ruby Falls in today's episode.For more eerie tales, please check out "Southern Ghost Stories: Chattanooga".

Who or what is the Jersey Devil? Why has it become a fixture in New Jersey and known as one of the most popular cryptids in the United States. What are its origins and do they originate with some dinosaur fossils that were discovered many years ago?Join us as we look in to the mythology and history of the Jersey Devil.For more eerie tales, please check out our book, "Fear & Folklore: American Monsters".

Why does a mysterious Lady in White inhabit a home on Third Avenue in Franklin, Tennessee? The origins may lie in a tale about a woman who decided to cancel her wedding at the last minute.Join us and find out about the haunted history of the Corn House. Don't forget to check out Southern Ghost Stories: Franklin, Tennessee for more eerie tales.

Enter the world of late 19th-century Chicago, where Dr. Mabel Jackman emerges as a prominent figure in the city's spiritualist circles. With her boardinghouse on North Clark Street serving as a hub for mystical gatherings, Dr. Jackman earns the moniker "the Shepherdess of Paradise" as she offers guidance and conducts seances for a devoted following.However, Dr. Jackman's influence takes a darker turn when Dr. Alfred J. Cole becomes entangled in a dubious business proposition presented by two mysterious men, Frank Edwards and George White. Amidst accusations of manipulation and hypnotic coercion, Dr. Jackman's reputation comes under scrutiny as her involvement in Dr. Cole's misfortune unfolds.As Dr. Jackman's tale unfolds, her legacy of mystery and scandal spans decades, from opulent mansions to the shadowy depths of the House of Seven Bathrooms. Join us as we delve into the enigmatic saga of Dr. Mabel Jackman, exploring the enduring allure of spiritualism amidst a backdrop of deception and intrigue in 19th-century Chicago.

In this episode, we explore the eerie tale of Knox Martin, a condemned man whose execution in 1879 in Nashville takes a bizarre turn, echoing themes of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. From the grim discovery at his sister's cabin to Knox's chilling hanging witnessed by thousands, we uncover the shocking attempt to bring him back from the dead using electric current. As rumors swirl and history unfolds, we confront the dark legacy of medical curiosity and the exploitation of the condemned, delving into the timeless fascination with life, death, and the boundaries of human experimentation. Join us as we unravel the mysteries surrounding Knox Martin's electrifying resurrection.For more eerie tales from South Nashville, please check out our book, "Southern Ghost Stories: South Nashville".Please be sure to subscribe and leave a review!

The old Central State Hospital in Nashville was the site of fires, murders and a pauper's graveyard. Today the property is home to an insurance company and a warehouse. Spoiler alert: They are both haunted! If you want to learn more about the old asylum, please check out our book Southern Ghost Stories: South Nashville.

In the 19th century the Galt House was the premier place to stay in Louisville, Kentucky. It was also the scene of some high profile murders and a deadly fire. While the old hotel is gone, the buildings there in its original footprint are said to be very, very haunted. For more information on hauntings in Louisville, check out our book, Southern Ghost Stories: Louisville.

Is an old doctor's office that has been converted into a shopping center haunted by a Union soldier? We dig into the aftermath of the Battle of Franklin to find out just who the ghost in the building really is!

From Los Angeles to Arkansas and Nashville, Tony and Susan Alamo built an empire leaving countless victims in their wake. The grifters of God made were an infamous duo that will be remembered for years.But, did you know there is a ghost story surrounding the Alamos? After Susan Alamo's death, the government raided the couples compound in Arkansas and found that her body had been removed from a mausoleum on-site.Where did the body go? What did Tony Alamo do with his wife's remains? An old church he owned where a female specter has been seen may unlock the answer…For more info on the Alamos check out the book Southern Ghost Stories: West Nashville.

Long to have been rumored to be the inspiration for Walt Disney's Haunted Mansion attraction, the Hamilton Turner Inn in Savannah, Georgia is said to be one of the most haunted places in Lafayette Square. From tales of children tragically dying to soldiers who fought in the area during the American Revolution, there is a lot of history in the area. Join us as we take a deep dive into the historic inn and the ghosts that roam the building in this week's show.

For years inmates have been trying to escape the Old, Old, Williamson County Jail in Franklin, Tennessee. We are taking a deep dive into the history of the jail and some of the colorful characters such as Clayton "Rabbit" Veach in a very special episode that is dedicated to Steve "Happy" Taylor.

I've been bombarded with messages from people who want to go ghost hunting the past few months. After a challenging 2020 people are itching to get out and do some investigating. So, after some discussions with several different venues I've lined up four big events Memorial Day Weekend. May 27 City Cafe Murfreesboro, Tennessee May 28 Buchanan Log House Donelson, Tennessee May 29 Robertson County Museum Springfield, Tennessee May 30 Sumner County Museum Gallatin, Tennessee All proceeds will be donated to each site. All info is on the Southern Ghost Stories Facebook page as well as the Tennessee Hauntings Facebook page.

The Tutwiler Hotel in downtown Birmingham is one of the nicest places to stay in the Magic City. But below the surface, there is something strange and otherworldly going on in the building that staff members aren't allowed to talk about. Join us as we take a ghost tour of the Tutwiler Hotel and take a deep dive into the history and hauntings of the old building.

This historic home on Essex Street is not only haunted, but an event inside the home also the inspired literary giants Nathaniel Hawthorne and Edgar Allan Poe to write some of their greatest works. The murder of an old sea captain even spawned a popular board game. Join us as we take a deep dive into the Gardner–Pingree House in Salem, Massachusetts!

The Boston Athenæum is one of the oldest libraries in the United States. It's also one of the most haunted. While the Athenæum has millions of books, the biography of a hoodlum from the 19th century named George Walton is the most popular. Why you ask? Well, join us as we take a deep dive into the Boston Athenæum and its ghostly link to Nathaniel Hawthorne as well as George Walton's book!

Quietly tucked away behind the Murfreesboro Square you will find the Childress House that belonged to the brother in law of former President James K. Polk. Built in 1847, the old house is now a popular Airbnb location in middle Tennessee. The historic home is believed to be haunted by former Union soldiers as well as slaves. In fact, there is a tunnel in one of the outbuilding that has been bricked up that supposedly led across the street. Join us as we take a deep dive into the historic house. Also, we will play recordings from a paranormal investigation conducted on the property.

Built in 1887 the Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum in St. Augustine, Florida is actually a castle named Castle Warden that was converted into a hotel. The old building was also the scene of a mysterious fire in 1944 that claimed the lives of two ladies. Was the fire an accident or was the deadly blaze set to cover up a murder? Either way, the museum is said to be haunted by one of the ladies who perished in the hotel fire. Join us as we take a deep dive into Castle Warden.

As one of the original plots of the Gallatin Square, the property now home to Gallatin City Hall was originally owned by Andrew Jackson. Today, a lady in white is said to be roaming the building late at night. Join us as we dig into the history and hauntings of Gallatin City Hall.

The New Orleans Saints are one of the premier teams in the NFL; but that wasn't always the case. The team was believed to be cursed for many years since part of the massive facility was built the Girod Street Cemetery. Join us as we take a deep dive into the Superdome's history. Also don't forget to download the New Orleans Ghost Map app to take your own ghost tour of New Orleans!

This historic home on Essex Street is not only haunted, but an event inside the home also the inspired literary giants Nathaniel Hawthorne and Edgar Allan Poe to write some of their greatest works. The murder of an old sea captain even spawned a popular board game. Join us as we take a deep dive into the Gardner–Pingree House in Salem, Massachusetts!

Madison Square is where General William Techumseh Sherman sent President Abraham Lincoln a telegraph presenting him with the city of Savannah for Christmas 1864. It's also home to a mass grave from the American Revolution as well as one of the most haunted houses in Georgia. Join us as we take a deep dive into the history and hauntings of Madison Square.

With hiking trails that include a scenic overlook as well as basketball courts and other amenities, Iroquois Park is one of the largest parks in Louisville. But there is also a dark underbelly that most don't know about. From brutal murders to a supposed Indian attack hundreds of years ago, there is a lot of negative energy that lead many to believe the park is haunted. Join us as we take a deep dive into the park's history in this episode.

As one of the premier casinos and resorts in Las Vegas, the Luxor is also one of the most haunted. Built on a supposed mobster burial ground, the hotel is said to be cursed. From suicides to bombs in the parking garage, the Luxor has seen its fair share of death. Join us as we take a deep dive into the casino's history and hauntings.

Located on East Main Street in Murfreesboro, Tennessee you will find the oldest restaurant in the Volunteer State. Sine 1900 the City Cafe has been serving up some of the best comfort food in middle Tennessee. But the popular restaurant also has a secret that dates back to the tragic death of a little girl many years ago. Join us as we take a deep dive into the haunted history of the City Cafe in Murfreesboro.

In downtown Birmingham, Alabama you will find the old Central Library that is now the Linn-Henley Research Center. The building has been serving the people of Birmingham for nearly one hundred years. But, it's also home to the spirit of a faculty member who has been known to make an appearance on occasion. Join us as we take a deep dive into the history and hauntings of the Linn-Henley Research Center.

Today we aren't just going to talk about a haunted bicycle shop. We are going to talk about one of the most brutal murder cases in the history of Melbourne, Florida. The building was once home to Van's Cleaners where a local man killed allegedly his family in 1954. The murders still echo through the building and staff members of the bike shop have experienced a lot of strange things. Join us as we take a deep dive into the history and hauntings of Van's Cleaners in Melbourne, Florida.

Tucked away in south Nashville you will find Travellers Rest, home of Judge John Overton. Overton isn't a household name but for his time, he was one of the most influential men in Tennessee. With a large plantation that was originally a Native American burial ground, strange things have been known to happen not just on the property, but the entire neighborhood that has since been built on the old Overton estate. Join us for a deep dive of Travellers Rest and firsthand accounts of the strange activity that occurs there.

Built in the 17th century, the Samuel Pickman House in Salem, Massachusetts was lost after it was renovated and remodeled over several hundred years. In 1960s a local realtor and a historian rediscovered the historic home and now it is beloved attraction to tourists who flock to the Witch City in October. But, the Samuel Pickman House has a dark past and supposedly where the spirit of a young girl resides. Join us as we take a deep dive into the Samuel Pickman House and it's haunted history!

Who are Raymond and Lavender, and why have they decided to spend the afterlife at the Kenwood Inn in St. Augustine, Florida? Love and betrayal are just some of the reason why you some guests check out at the first ever bed and breakfast in St. Augustine. Join us as we take a deep dive into the history and hauntings of the Kenwood Inn.

In the heart of Savannah, Georgia you will find Calhoun Square. Named after John C. Calhoun, a prominent politician from South Carolina the square was laid out in 1851. In the square you will find some of the most haunted buildings in the Low Country. But it's not just the old houses that are haunted, the square is believed to be harboring spirits from long ago. Join us as we take a deep dive into Calhoun Square in Savannah!

From Harland Sanders to Muhammed Ali, Cave Hill Cemetery is the final resting place for famous residents of Louisville, Kentucky. But the cemetery has a complicated history and was where an infamous grave robber procured fresh bodies from time to time. Those who live nearby claim Cave Hill Cemetery is haunted and have seen strange things in the burying ground from time to time. Join us as we take a deep dive into the historic cemetery.

Built in the early 19th century for the Maney family, the Oaklands Mansion is one of the most historic homes in Murfreesboro. When Nathan Bedford Forrest led his cavalry into Murfreesboro in 1862 his men skirmished with Federal soldiers on the front lawn. Over the years numerous children died in the home and it's believed this is the source of the hauntings in the home. From kids heard running around the mansion, to the grieving matriarch that still paces the halls, Oaklands is indeed one of the most haunted places in middle Tennessee. Join us as we take a look into the history and hauntings of the Oaklands Mansion.

Drawing more visitors to her grave than Elvis Presley, Voo Doo Priestess Marie Laveau is a legend in not just New Orleans, but all over the world! Some say her tomb is haunted, others say it can bring life changing good fortune. Which is true? Maybe it's both! Join us as we take a deep dive into the life, death and afterlife of Marie Laveau.

Laid out in 1789, St. Louis Cemetery #1 is one of the oldest and most historically significant cemeteries in New Orleans. With roughly 700 tombs and 100,000 people interned in walls and tombs sinking into the ground, the cemetery is a site to see. It's also the final resting place of Voo Doo priestess Marie Laveau, whose final resting place draws more visitors than Elvis Presley. Oh yeah, the cemetery is said to be extremely haunted! Join us as we take a deep dive into the history and hauntings of St. Louis Cemetery #1 in New Orleans!

After fires decimated the Gallatin square in the 19th century, hauntings are now a common occurrence. One of the most active haunted areas of the square just happens to be in a hallway that was a small shopping center in the 1980s and 90s called the Enlow Center. Each business that still occupies retail space in the strip often has strange experiences that can't be explained. Join us as we take a deep dive into the history of the Gallatin square and the old Enlow Center.

Built in 1851, the Marshall House was the most luxurious hotel in Savannah, Georgia of its time. But in 1864, when General Sherman marched the Federal army into Savannah, he took over the building and used it as a hospital for his men. Today the Marshall House is once again a hotel but some of those spirits from the war have chosen to stay behind and still reside on the property. Join us as we take a deep dive into the history and hauntings of the Marshall House.

Like most places in Salem,Massachusetts Saint Peter's Episcopal Church can trace it's origins back to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Phillip English, a wealthy shipping merchant was accused of being a witch after speaking out about the witch trials when his wife was accused. The trials led to English's imprisonment and a showdown with crooked sheriff George Corwin. English regained some of his property and eventually sold a plot of land to a church for a sanctuary and a burying ground. Over time the church grew and expanded over the graves. Today it's thought to be one of the most haunted buildings in Salem. Join us as we take a deep dive into the history and hauntings of Saint Peter's Episcopal Church in Salem.

Who is Abigail and why is she haunting room 711 in the historic Union Station Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee? The once proud train station is now a luxury hotel where things have been known to go bump in the night. Join us as we take a deep dive into the history and hauntings of Union Station!

Built for a slave trader in the early 19th century, the Beauregard-Keyes House is one of the most historic homes in the French Quarter. After the Civil War it was home to Confederate General P. G.T. Beauregard and later acclaimed Frances Parkinson Keyes. The house is said to be home to some spirits that lost their lives in a deadly mafia shootout in the 1900s. Many claim that General Beauregard is also roaming the property lamenting a terrible decision during the war that cost many of his men their lives. Join us as we take a deep dive into the historic home in the French Quarter.

On December 10, 1909 one of the most gruesome murders in Georgia's history took place in Savannah. After hearing moaning coming from the boarding house of Eliza Gribble police discovered two dead women and another knocking on death's door. What police discovered sent them on a wild goose chase that may or may not have led them to the killer. But one thing is for sure-the Gribble House is thought to be haunted by those whose lives were taken that cold December morning. Join us as we take a deep dive into the history and hauntings of the Gribble House.

In the early 19th century wealthy people flocked to mineral springs resorts for their vacation. One of the most popular resorts was Hotel Cloyd, located in Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee. Today the old resort is now a popular inn called the Thomas House. Oh yeah, some consider it to be the most haunted place in Tennessee. Several spirits reside in the inn. A young girl named, Sarah,a little boy named Billy, "The Whistler" and countless others make their presence known from time to time. Join us as we take a deep dive into the history and hauntings of The Thomas House.

Built in 1891 by businessman Henry Flagler, the old St. Johns County Jail was ran by Sheriff Joe Perry who kept inmates in line. After decades of hangings and lynchings in the old jail, it's no surprise that many believe it is one of the most haunted places in St. Augustine. Tour guides and staff members of the museum tell stories of strange things happening in the old correctional facility and some of the old inmates are believed to still be hanging around. Join us as we take a deep dive into the Old St. Johns County Jail!

Kids in Louisville grow up hearing about the fabled Sauerkraut cave in E. P. Tom Sawyer Park. Ghost stories and creepy tales surround the the cave that was part of an old mental asylum. But is it really haunted by former mental patients who died while receiving primitive treatment from doctor's who didn't know how to care for mental illness? Join is for a deep dive on Sauerkraut Cave in Louisville, Kentucky.