Tag Archives: ghosts

The Haunting of the Old Spanish Bridge

April 9, 2023 MJ Cooper 1 Comment

Once upon a time in the far-off island of Guam, there lay a mysterious and eerie old structure known as the Old Spanish Bridge. The bridge, made of ancient stones and covered with moss and creeping vines, had long been the subject of numerous ghost stories and local legends. It had been built by the Spanish during their colonization of the island in the 18th century, and it was said to be haunted by the restless spirits of the long-dead Spanish soldiers and native Chamorro people who had met tragic ends.

The bridge was located deep within a dense forest, and only the most adventurous and daring would venture to explore its secrets. On a dark, moonless night, two curious teenagers, Maria and Juan, decided to set off on a journey to the Old Spanish Bridge to uncover the truth behind the whispered tales of its haunting. They had heard many accounts of ghostly apparitions, disembodied voices, and strange occurrences that could not be explained by any logical means. With flashlights in hand, they began their trek through the shadowy forest, guided only by the dim light of their torches and the distant sound of the Agana River.

As they walked deeper into the woods, the air around them grew colder, and an unsettling silence enveloped them. The trees seemed to whisper in the wind, and the shadows cast by their torches seemed to dance upon the forest floor. They could feel the weight of the darkness around them, as if the forest itself was watching their every move.

Finally, they arrived at the Old Spanish Bridge. It was an impressive structure, despite the centuries of decay and the relentless forces of nature. The massive stones, worn by time and weather, still stood strong against the current of the river below. Maria and Juan could feel the eerie atmosphere that surrounded the bridge, and they knew that they were not alone.

As they cautiously crossed the bridge, they began to hear faint whispers in the wind. The voices seemed to be calling out to them, begging for help, or perhaps seeking vengeance for some long-forgotten wrong. The air grew colder still, and a thick, unnatural fog began to rise from the river below. The ghostly mist enveloped the bridge, obscuring their vision and heightening their sense of unease.

Then, out of the fog, a figure emerged. It was a ghostly apparition, barely visible through the haze. The spirit was a tall, skeletal figure dressed in tattered Spanish soldier’s uniform, its eyes sunken and hollow, and its bony hand stretched out as if reaching for something—or someone. The ghost’s eyes met Maria and Juan’s, and they could feel the sorrow and pain that the spirit bore from its time on Earth.

The ghostly soldier began to speak, its voice barely audible over the howling wind. It told the story of a brutal battle that had taken place on the bridge centuries ago, between the Spanish and the native Chamorro people. The soldier had been a part of the conflict, and in the heat of battle, he had killed a young Chamorro girl who had been trying to protect her family.

Racked with guilt and unable to find peace in the afterlife, the ghost of the soldier remained tethered to the bridge, forever searching for the forgiveness that he could not find in life. Maria and Juan listened intently as the spirit recounted the horrors of the battle, the heartache of the families torn apart, and the devastation that had been wrought upon the island.

As the ghost finished its tale, Maria and Juan felt a deep sense of compassion and empathy for the spirit. They knew that they had to help the ghost find the forgiveness it sought so that it could finally be at peace. Together, they knelt on the bridge and said a heartfelt prayer for the souls of the soldier and the young girl, asking for forgiveness and understanding on their behalf. They prayed for all the lives lost in the battle and for the spirit to find solace in the afterlife.

As their prayer came to an end, the ghostly soldier’s eyes seemed to soften, and a hint of a smile appeared on its spectral face. The air around them began to warm, and the fog that had enveloped the bridge slowly dissipated. The spirit nodded gratefully at Maria and Juan, and with one final, longing look at the river below, it vanished into the night.

Maria and Juan remained on the bridge for a few moments, feeling a sense of closure and accomplishment. They had not only uncovered the truth behind the haunting of the Old Spanish Bridge but had also helped a tormented soul find peace. As they made their way back through the forest, they felt an overwhelming sense of serenity and a newfound respect for the power of forgiveness.

Word of their encounter with the ghost of the Old Spanish Bridge spread throughout the island, and the legend of the haunted bridge took on a new meaning. It became a symbol of the importance of forgiveness and understanding, a reminder of the tragedies that can occur when we allow hatred and division to rule our lives.

And so, the Old Spanish Bridge, once a place of fear and darkness, became a beacon of hope and redemption for the people of Guam, who would never forget the lessons they had learned from the ghosts of their past.

Guam

The Taotaomona Trees: Uncovering the Mysterious Legend of Guam’s Dense Jungles

April 8, 2023 MJ Cooper 1 Comment

Guam, a small island known for its rich cultural history, has no shortage of captivating legends and stories that have been passed down through generations. Recently, the tale of the Taotaomona Trees has gained increased attention among both locals and visitors, sparking interest in the enigmatic spirits believed to dwell within the island’s dense jungles. x

According to Chamorro folklore, ancestral spirits known as taotaomona serve as guardians of the island and its people. They are said to inhabit the jungles of Guam, particularly the large banyan trees that grace the island’s lush landscape. These trees, known as “trongkon nunu” in the Chamorro language, are believed to house the spirits, who watch over the land and ensure its well-being.

The Taotaomona Trees story revolves around a group of friends who, on a dare, venture into the jungle, unknowingly entering the realm of the taotaomona. As they delve deeper into the forest, they encounter a series of unexplained and terrifying phenomena. Ultimately, they realize that they have disturbed the spirits’ domain and must face the consequences of their intrusion. The story teaches its audience to respect the island’s ancestral spirits and the power of nature.

The Role of Taotaomona in Chamorro Culture

The belief in taotaomona is deeply rooted in Chamorro culture and spirituality. As ancestral spirits, they are often invoked for protection, guidance, and blessings. In some instances, they are also believed to be capable of bestowing supernatural abilities or healing powers upon individuals who honor and respect them.

The legend of the Taotaomona Trees serves as an important reminder for the people of Guam to value their connection with their ancestors, as well as the land and its natural resources. It is not uncommon for locals to share their personal experiences of encountering taotaomona, reinforcing the enduring presence of these spirits in the Chamorro community.

The Taotaomona Trees and Eco-Tourism

The mystique surrounding the Taotaomona Trees has also garnered interest from tourists and adventure-seekers alike. Guided jungle tours and eco-tourism experiences are available for those curious about the island’s unique flora and fauna, as well as its cultural heritage. However, these excursions emphasize the importance of respecting the environment and the island’s spiritual beliefs.

Visitors are advised to be mindful of their actions and to treat the jungle with reverence. Some locals even suggest that those who enter the realm of the taotaomona should ask for permission before entering, as a sign of respect and acknowledgment of the spirits’ guardianship.

The Taotaomona Trees of Guam’s dense jungles represent more than just an intriguing ghost story. They embody the island’s rich cultural heritage, the deep-rooted connection between the people and their land, and the respect for ancestral spirits that continues to permeate Chamorro society. As we explore the legend of the Taotaomona Trees, we gain a better understanding of the Chamorro people’s spirituality, their connection to nature, and the importance of preserving these stories for future generations.

Guam

The top-five ghost stories of Guam

April 8, 2023 MJ Cooper

1 – Taotaomona Trees: In the dense jungles of Guam, the ancient spirits known as “taotaomona” are said to reside within the large banyan trees. These spirits are believed to be the guardians of the island and its people. The Taotaomona Trees story revolves around a group of friends who venture into the jungle on a dare, only to encounter the wrath of the taotaomona. Their harrowing experience teaches them a lesson in respecting the island’s ancestral spirits and the power of nature.

2 – The Ghost of Puntan Dos Amantes (Two Lovers’ Point): This tragic love story takes place at the famous cliffside known as Puntan Dos Amantes, where a young Chamorro couple, forbidden from being together by their families, leaped to their deaths to be united in eternity. The ghosts of the two lovers are said to still haunt the site, and visitors have reported seeing their spirits embracing or hearing their whispers in the wind.

3 – The Haunting of the Old Spanish Bridge:This ghost story centers around the Old Spanish Bridge, a centuries-old structure built during Guam’s Spanish colonial era. Locals believe that the souls of those who perished during the bridge’s construction still roam the area. Late-night travelers have reported strange occurrences, such as ghostly figures, unexplained sounds, and even the feeling of being touched or pushed by unseen forces.

4 – The Crying Woman of Inarajan: In the village of Inarajan, there is a story of a woman who lost her child in a tragic accident near the ocean. The woman’s spirit, overcome with grief, is said to haunt the shoreline, searching for her lost child. On moonlit nights, villagers claim to hear the woman’s mournful cries and have spotted her ghostly figure wandering the beach.

5 – The Spirits of War in the Air: World War II left a significant impact on Guam, and many locals believe that the spirits of soldiers who perished during the conflict still linger. The Spirits of War in the Air tells the story of an abandoned airfield where people have reported hearing phantom aircraft engines, disembodied voices, and even seeing ghostly soldiers marching across the tarmac. This chilling tale serves as a reminder of the island’s turbulent past and the sacrifices made by countless individuals during wartime.

Haunted Places, hawaii, Pacific Coast Ghost Stories

Haunted Morgan’s Corner on the island of Maui

April 8, 2023 MJ Cooper

Morgan’s Corner, a seemingly innocuous bend in the road surrounded by lush foliage and towering trees, holds a dark secret. Over the years, it has become synonymous with tragic events, eerie occurrences, and unexplained phenomena, earning its reputation as one of the most haunted places on Maui.

The legend of Morgan’s Corner is rooted in a series of unfortunate incidents that have taken place in the area. One of the most notorious events dates back to the early 20th century, when a young woman named Emily Morgan tragically lost her life in a car accident on the very curve that now bears her name. Locals claim that her restless spirit continues to haunt the area, seeking solace for her untimely demise.

Over the years, there have been numerous accounts of strange encounters and unexplained phenomena at Morgan’s Corner. In 1967, a local man named Richard reported a chilling experience while driving along the winding road late one night. As he approached the infamous bend, he saw the figure of a woman in a white dress standing by the side of the road. When he slowed down to offer assistance, the woman vanished into thin air, leaving Richard questioning his sanity.

Another incident, in 1985, involved a group of tourists who were camping near Morgan’s Corner. They were awakened in the dead of night by the sound of a woman weeping. As they searched for the source of the distressing cries, they discovered a translucent figure of a woman in white, standing beneath a tree. The apparition vanished before their eyes, leaving the terrified campers with no choice but to pack up their belongings and flee the area.

The haunted reputation of Morgan’s Corner has become deeply entrenched in the local folklore. Some believe that the area is cursed, a magnet for misfortune and tragedy. Others attribute the supernatural occurrences to the restless spirits of those who have met their end near the fateful curve, forever bound to the place of their demise.

As you explore the breathtaking island of Maui, be sure to treat its history and legends with the reverence and respect they deserve. If you happen to find yourself driving along the winding road near Morgan’s Corner, be vigilant and remain cautious, for the spirits that dwell there may be watching from the shadows.

Despite its haunted reputation, the story of Morgan’s Corner serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of legends and folklore that define the Hawaiian Islands. As we delve into these captivating tales, we are transported to a time when the line between the natural and supernatural was blurred, and we are reminded that even in paradise, the echoes of the past continue to resonate, whispering to us through the haunting legend of Morgan’s Corner on the island of Maui.

hawaii, Pacific Coast Ghost Stories

The tale of the Nightmarchers of Kauai

April 8, 2023 MJ Cooper

The enigmatic island of Kauai in Hawaii is the home to a legend that has both captivated and frightened locals and visitors alike: the tale of the Nightmarchers of Kauai.

The Nightmarchers, or Hukai’po in Hawaiian, are the ghostly apparitions of ancient Hawaiian warriors who once fiercely protected their land and its people. These spectral entities continue to patrol the island, marching at night through sacred sites, historical battlefields, and ancestral burial grounds.

Legend has it that the Nightmarchers emerge from the ocean or descend from the mountains at sunset, moving in formation and accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of drums and conch shells. Their torches flicker in the darkness as they march through the night, leaving an eerie atmosphere in their wake.

There have been several documented encounters with the Nightmarchers over the years, adding to the mystique and fear that surrounds them. In 1984, a group of campers on Kauai’s north shore reported hearing distant drums and chanting late at night. As they cautiously approached the source of the sounds, they witnessed a column of ghostly figures marching along the shoreline, their torches illuminating the darkness.

Another account, in 2001, involved a park ranger who was patrolling a historical site near the Waimea Canyon. The ranger observed a line of spectral warriors moving through the area, their armor glinting in the moonlight. Unable to explain the phenomenon, the ranger left the area immediately, deeply shaken by the experience.

The Nightmarchers are considered sacred and not to be disturbed. Locals believe that those who disrespect the spirits or cross their path face dire consequences, including illness, misfortune, or even death. To avoid such a fate, one must lie face down on the ground in a gesture of submission and respect, averting their gaze and waiting for the procession to pass.

Despite the fear that the Nightmarchers inspire, their presence is also viewed as a connection to the rich cultural heritage of the Hawaiian people. These spectral warriors are seen as protectors of the land and its history, and their presence serves as a reminder of the ancient customs and traditions that have shaped the islands.

As you explore the enchanting island of Kauai, remember to respect its history and the legends that continue to captivate the hearts and minds of its people. Should you find yourself near a sacred site or ancient battlefield at dusk, tread carefully, for the Nightmarchers may be watching. In these moments, we are reminded that even in paradise, the echoes of the past still resonate, whispering to us through the legends of the Nightmarchers of Kauai.

hawaii, Pacific Coast Ghost Stories

The Haunted Palace Theater in Hilo – A Bone-Chilling Tale from the Big Island of Hawaii

April 8, 2023 MJ Cooper

This is another spine-tingling tale from the tropical paradise of Hawaii, where the sun-kissed beaches and lush landscapes conceal a sinister secret. Our eerie escapade takes us to the historic Palace Theater in Hilo, situated on the Big Island. This iconic theater, which first opened in 1925, is not only a revered cultural landmark but also the residence of several ghostly inhabitants. Join me as we uncover the blood-curdling history of the Palace Theater, its paranormal happenings, and the legends of its spectral occupants.

The Dark and Mysterious History of the Palace Theater

The Palace Theater, conceived by architect H.C. Hudson and constructed by the Hawaiian Amusement Company, first welcomed terror-stricken patrons on November 3, 1925. It quickly became a thriving epicenter of entertainment, featuring silent films, live performances, and musical acts that enthralled the people of Hilo. Over the decades, the theater has survived multiple catastrophes, including the devastating 1946 tsunami, which inflicted severe damage upon the structure. Nevertheless, the resilient Palace Theater has always managed to rise from the rubble and continues to serve as a cherished venue for the arts.

Spectral Residents of the Palace Theater

Rumors abound that the historic Palace Theater is haunted by a spine-chilling assortment of spectral tenants, each with their own unique tales of terror. Let us delve into the macabre mysteries surrounding these ghostly figures.

The Woman in White

One of the most infamous apparitions at the Palace Theater is that of a woman in white. Often spotted lurking in the balcony, she silently observes the theater’s activities. Some believe that she is the spirit of a former patron or employee, so enamored with the theater that she refuses to leave, even in death.

The Phantom Projectionist

Another eerie presence at the Palace Theater is that of a phantom projectionist. Numerous employees have reported hearing the chilling sounds of film reels and projectors emanating from the projection room, despite no one being present. It is said that the projectionist, who dedicated decades to the theater, remains so devoted to his craft that he continues to play films for an audience of the undead.

The Mischievous Child

A more playful spirit is rumored to haunt the theater halls: a young child. Theater staff and patrons have reported witnessing objects moving on their own, hearing the spine-chilling sound of a child’s laughter, and even feeling a gentle tug on their clothing. Some speculate that the child may have been a young performer or the offspring of an employee who once frequented the theater.

Paranormal Phenomena at the Palace Theater

Throughout the years, countless employees and visitors have reported spine-tingling experiences at the Palace Theater. These blood-curdling encounters include unexplained cold spots, flickering lights, the unnerving sensation of being watched, and disembodied footsteps echoing through the desolate halls. Some have even claimed to see full-bodied apparitions roaming the theater’s corridors, vanishing as quickly as they materialized.

All in all, the haunted Palace Theater in Hilo stands as a testament to the enduring power of the supernatural, as well as the rich cultural history of the Big Island of Hawaii. Whether you’re a paranormal aficionado or merely a lover of the performing arts, the theater offers a unique glimpse into a bygone era and the otherworldly enigmas that continue to captivate the imaginations of visitors and locals alike. So, the next time you find yourself on the Big Island, consider paying a visit to the Palace Theater.

hawaii, Honoring the Dead, Pacific Coast Ghost Stories

The Lady in White: Hawaii’s Haunting Legend of Pali Highway

April 8, 2023 MJ Cooper 1 Comment

The Lady in White is a well-known ghost story that haunts the Pali Highway on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. The legend tells of a beautiful woman dressed in a white gown who appears to drivers on foggy nights, often causing them to lose control of their vehicle. Her tragic story has been passed down through generations and continues to intrigue and terrify people to this day.

According to legend, the Lady in White was a newlywed who was driving on the Pali Highway with her husband when they got into a terrible accident. Her husband was killed in the crash, and she was thrown from the car and died shortly after. Her spirit is said to remain on the highway, searching for her lost love.

The Lady in White is said to appear to drivers on foggy nights, often standing in the middle of the road or by the side of the highway. Some have reported seeing her waving for help or even trying to get into their car. Others have reported hearing her ghostly screams and feeling a sudden chill in the air.

Many drivers who have encountered the Lady in White have reported losing control of their vehicle or experiencing mechanical issues with their car. Some believe that her ghostly presence is responsible for these incidents, warning drivers to be careful on the treacherous stretch of road.

Despite the eerie nature of the legend, there is no concrete evidence to support the existence of the Lady in White or her tragic story. However, the legend has become a part of Hawaii’s cultural heritage and continues to captivate residents and visitors alike.

The Lady in White has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including an episode of the popular show “Hawaii Five-O.” The story has also been adapted into various forms of art, including music and literature.

While the Lady in White may be a spooky legend, it also highlights the dangers of driving on Hawaii’s treacherous roads. The Pali Highway is known for its steep cliffs and sharp turns, and accidents are not uncommon. Drivers should take extra caution when driving on this stretch of road, particularly on foggy nights.

In conclusion, the Lady in White is a haunting legend that has captivated Hawaii for generations. While there is no concrete evidence to support the existence of the Lady in White or her tragic story, the legend continues to intrigue and terrify people to this day. The story serves as a reminder of the dangers of Hawaii’s treacherous roads, and the importance of safe driving practices.

Haunted Places, hawaii, Honoring the Dead, Pacific Coast Ghost Stories

Top-10 ghost stories of Hawaii

April 8, 2023 MJ Cooper

1 – Night Marchers – This is one of the most well-known ghost stories in Hawaii. It is said that the spirits of ancient Hawaiian warriors called the Night Marchers come out at night to march through certain areas, and if you see them, you must show them respect or suffer the consequences.

2 – The Lady in White – The Lady in White is a ghost that is said to haunt the Pali Highway on the island of Oahu. Legend has it that she is the ghost of a woman who was killed in a car accident on the highway, and now she appears to drivers on foggy nights.

3 – The Haunted Lighthouse – The Makapu’u Lighthouse on Oahu is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former lighthouse keeper who died on the job. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises and seeing the ghostly figure of a man near the lighthouse.

4 – The Green Lady – The Green Lady is a ghost that is said to haunt the grounds of the Kahala Hilton Hotel on Oahu. Legend has it that she is the ghost of a woman who drowned in the hotel pool many years ago.

5 – The Ghost Dog of Waipio Valley – The Waipio Valley on the Big Island of Hawaii is said to be haunted by the ghost of a black dog. Legend has it that the dog was the guardian of the valley and now appears to warn visitors of danger.

6 – The Faceless Woman – The Faceless Woman is a ghost that is said to haunt the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout on Oahu. Legend has it that she is the ghost of a woman who fell off the cliff and had her face disfigured in the fall.

7 – The Haunted Palace Theater – The Palace Theater in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former projectionist. Visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures and hearing strange noises in the theater.

8 – The Ghost Children of Wailua – The Wailua River on Kauai is said to be haunted by the ghostly voices of children. Legend has it that the children drowned in the river many years ago and their spirits now haunt the area.

9 – The Nightmarchers of Kauai – The Nightmarchers also appear on the island of Kauai. Legend has it that they are the spirits of ancient Hawaiian warriors who march through certain areas at night, and if you see them, you must show them respect or suffer the consequences.

10 – The Haunted Morgan’s Corner – Morgan’s Corner on the island of Maui is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman who was killed in a car accident at the intersection. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises and seeing ghostly figures in the area.

North Carolina, Southern Ghost Stories, User Submitted

The Haunted Room – Hamlet, NC

October 27, 2018 MJ Cooper

One night, many years ago now, I was asleep in the back bedroom of my parents’ house in an old iron bed that had belonged to my great grandmother. Over in the morning, I woke up when I felt someone lay down beside me. Somehow I knew whatever it was, it wasn’t human and I was terrified to turn over, afraid of what I would see. I lay paralyzed in fear until daylight broke through the windows. I jumped up, still without looking back, and practically ran from the room.

When my mother got home after working third shift at Hamlet Hospital, I told her what had happened. At first, she looked surprised, then proceeded to tell me that the same thing had happened to her. She said, at first, she thought it was our dog, but when she called his name, he came running in from another room. When I asked her why she never said anything, she replied that she didn’t want to scare us. When asked if she turned around to see what it was, she said, “Are you kidding?”

A year or so later, my youngest brother was sleeping in that same room when he said he woke up to hear voices in the wall. He woke up my other brother who was sleeping in the middle room right beside this bedroom to tell him about the voices. My other brother told him he was imagining things, to go back to sleep. My youngest brother got back in bed and went back to sleep. Then, my other brother started hearing the voices. He woke our younger brother and they went to find our father to tell him what had happened.

Not sure if it’s the room or the bed, but we have tried to find out if a previous owner might have passed away in the house with no luck. Mama did finally get rid of the bed, but to this day, no one in the family will sleep in that room. We won’t even go in there after dark…..

Hamlet, NC - Haunted Bedroom

Haunted Places, Louisiana

The Myrtles Plantation, St. Francisville, Louisiana

October 22, 2018 MJ Cooper 1 Comment

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Commonly known as one of America’s most haunted homes, the Myrtles Plantation started off as a working mansion during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It’s an extravagant example of the grandeur that characterized plantations during that time period; the French chandelier in the mansion’s foyer is Baccarat crystal and weighs over 300 pounds. Today, it’s a bed and breakfast.

Rumor has it that the house was built on top of a former burial ground, and throughout the years there have been numerous ghost sightings. The most well-known being Chloe, who was allegedly a former slave at the plantation.

The legends that surround Chloe vary, but most say she poisoned the plantation owner’s two children, and was then hung by her fellow slaves. Chloe is said to have appeared as an apparition in a photograph taken by the plantation’s proprietress in 1992.

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Florida, Haunted Places, Michigan

The Inherited Mansion

October 9, 2018 MJ Cooper 8 Comments

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The Inherited Mansion

In this scary horror story, a young family learns that something terrifying lives within their inherited mansion.

I have always hated the cold. Too many cold winter nights spent alone while my father, an unemployed butcher, blew our welfare benefits on booze and took his frustrations out on me with his belt. I left Michigan fifteen years ago at the age of sixteen after a particularly bad beating, and never looked back. Last I had heard, about eight years ago, he had taken to living on the streets. Good riddance, I say.

I spent a few years in the military, got a college education courtesy of Uncle Sam, and started a family of my own in the sunny state of Florida. Life was great, and I had not thought about my father in years. I truly believed that the worst part of my life was behind me. I had the American Dream: beautiful wife, kids, and was on the verge of buying our very own home. That all changed last year.

Last November my wife and I were nearly ready to sign the papers on our dream home. She worked as a home decorator and I owned half of a small auto repair shop with an old Army buddy. We were so close to signing the mortgage for a small, beautiful house. We were not to be so lucky. I can still remember the heavy envelope we received in the mail the day before we were set to finalize the purchase of our new home.

Inside the envelope was a letter from a lawyer in Detroit informing me that my Grandparents on my Mother’s side had passed away. My mother had died during my birth, and I had never met my Grandparents. I remember my father once telling me, during one of his many attempts at sobriety, that my Mother’s parents had hated my father, and blamed him for her death. The lawyer’s letter stated that I was the only living heir to a sizable estate. I directly inherited $700,000, a decaying mansion, and what was estimated to be 3.5 million dollars worth of artwork and antique furniture. The only caveat was that I needed to be in the small Michigan town to claim the inheritance within thirty days, or else the estate would become property of the State of Michigan.

My wife was ecstatic. I tried to match her excitement, but failed miserably. I had done a hell of a good job building a new life to replace the broken life I had left behind in Michigan. Yea, this was a shit-ton of money, but we had what we needed here in Florida. My wife was determined. She believed that this was the jumpstart that her career needed. She convinced me that we should move the entire family into the mansion. She could blog about home improvement and interior decorating and I could use the inheritance money to start a new auto shop. It was a done deal. I wish that I had resisted more, knowing what I do now, but my wife is stubborn as a mule when she wants something.

So we moved. I sold my stake in the auto shop to my buddy, and reluctantly packed up for the cross-country move. My two kids shared my wife’s enthusiasm for the move. She showed them pictures of the place that were included in the envelope from the lawyer. I remember my oldest son, Brian, saying, “Cool! Our very own haunted house!”

He was right. The place seemed pretty damn haunted. It was huge, over 6,000 square feet, and looked like it hadn’t been lived in for years. The mansion seemed to have a perpetual fog surrounding it, likely due to its proximity to Lake Erie. The lawyer informed me that my grandparents had lived as shut-ins for the past twenty years. Their lawyer had last seen them five years ago, before they disappeared. A lengthy police investigation determined that my grandparents had likely drowned in the lake, possibly as part of a suicide pact.

White sheets covered all of the furniture and artwork, and a thick layer of dust covered everything in the mansion except for in the kitchen and master bedroom. The roof leaked in a few areas and the yard was in dire need of landscaping. The only source of heat came from huge, drafty fireplaces, which seemed to scream during windy nights. So yeah, my son Brian was right, we had our very own haunted house.

The first few weeks of living in the mansion were actually pretty great. My two sons and I would go out onto the estate grounds and collect firewood to warm the mansion. My wife started her home improvement blog and got to work on fixing up the place. I began putting out feelers for local communities in need of a good auto shop. We had one of the best Christmas’s in recent memory. My wife even found an old photo album, which had pictures of my mom as a child and teenager. I became complacent. It all seemed too good to be true.

The initial euphoria of the move began to fade by the second month. The mansion felt too big, too old, and too goddamn creepy. It sounded like a giant awakening from a slumber when fierce gusts of wind blew in from Lake Erie and forced their way through every nook and cranny. I would toss and turn in bed at night, trying to shut out the howl and scream of the wind which seemed to come from deep within the mansion.

After many sleepless nights, I decided it was time to use some of the inheritance money to add insulation to the mansion. I called every handyman and independent contractor in a fifty mile radius. Each one of them made excuses or hung up when I told them the address of the mansion. The area was still reeling from the implosion of Detroit’s economy; these guys needed the business. It should have worried me a little, that people seemed afraid of the place, but it never crossed my mind at the time. Instead I made a trip down to the local hardware store and picked up a couple caulking guns. I will never forget the looks that the locals gave me. At the time I assumed their coldness and stares were due to jealousy of the inheritance. When I look back now, I can remember that their expressions seemed to exhibit wariness, perhaps even pity from the locals that suspected the truth about the mansion.

I got back to the mansion and caulked like a madman throughout the night. I stalked throughout the mansion, caulking gun in hand, in search of gaps, cracks, and holes to fill up. My wife and kids slept peacefully throughout the night, yet I tossed and turned while the mansion tormented me with demonic sounds. Sleeping in different rooms did not help. Ear plugs, music and my head stuffed between two thick pillows finally allowed me to get a full night of sleep. My wife suspected it was all in my head and told me that it was just the stress of moving back home after so many years.

On New Year’s Day my wife woke me and told me that a blizzard was heading towards our town. There was already a foot of snow on the ground, and weatherman on the radio said to expect three to four feet of snow within the next 48 hours. I suited up to go out and chop and stack wood in case the storm lasted longer than expected. After two hours of hard work I decided to take a break and head back inside. Another half foot of snow had fallen while I had been cutting wood. I remember thinking to myself that I would get the boys to come out and help stack the wood while I chopped.

On my way back I noticed paw prints in the fresh snow. They were big. Too big for an animal. Almost human, but who the hell walks barefoot in the snow? I was about to find out.

My thoughts trailed off as I noticed that the front door of the mansion was wide open. I had definitely closed it when I left. I quickened my pace, and began to call out to scold one of the boys for leaving the door open in the middle of a blizzard. I paused mid sentence when I saw a round object lying on the doorstep.

My heart dropped into my stomach and my hands clenched around the axe. Lying on the doorstep was the frozen head of an old man. Head severed cleanly at the neck. Blank, cold eyes stared lifelessly over Lake Erie while his tongue protruded from the side of mouth, twisted in a permanent scream.

Instinct took over. It was fight or flight. I stormed into the mansion, feeling the surge of adrenaline as I called out for my wife and sons. A faint scream arose from the direction of the kitchen. I took off running and came upon an open trapdoor in the floor of the kitchen. Cold air burst through the trapdoor as I lowered myself onto the ladder. I found myself in a dark passage illuminated by smoky oil lanterns hung on the walls. I ran through the tunnel with both hands wrapped around the wooden handle of the axe. Sobs floated up the passage towards me. I broke into a sprint and soon emerged into a large, chilly room.

My wife and oldest son sat in the middle of the room shivering with their hands tied behind their backs. A dozen frozen bodies, hung from the walls on meat hooks, looked down upon us. Against the far wall I spied my youngest son tied down to what looked like a homemade guillotine.

I took a step towards the contraption, but an old man emerged from the shadowed wall and grunted, “I wouldn’t touch that”.

The grizzled old man held a gun in his right hand and a rope in his left. The rope led up to the ceiling, where it held a sharp guillotine blade in place, about ten feet over the neck of my youngest son.

I took another step towards my son, and the man loosened his grip on the rope, letting the blade drop an inch before catching the rope again. I froze.

“What do you want with us” I sputtered through clenched teeth.

“Dinner” he said with a phlegm filled laugh. “A man gotta eat” For a moment I thought the laugh sounded familiar, but the man resembled no one I had ever known. Yellowed skin covered with oozing lesions, rotted teeth, black and broken fingernails. He looked like something out of a Zombie movie.

A strong gust of wind blew open a large trap door leading outside. The cannibalistic man looked away for a moment, and that was when I raised the axe, and let it fly across the room. The blunt portion of the axe head smashed into the man’s face and he toppled backwards into an oil lantern hanging on the wall. His grip on the rope loosened and then gave way.

I took two quick steps and dived forward. Arm stretched upwards as the blade began to fall. I caught the blade in the palm of my hand, and it sank downwards, finally coming to rest halfway through my forearm. I fought the pain and terror surging through my body and forced myself to grab onto the rope to pull the guillotine blade back up. My son was unharmed, except for being drenched in my blood. Smoke wafted up behind me. The broken lamp had started a growing fire in the corner of the room.

I pulled my wife and two sons to their feet and rushed them outside. I freed their hands from the bonds and my wife immediately began to bandage my arm and hand with whatever clothing we could spare.

I began to lead them back up the hill, towards the mansion, when I heard an inhuman scream from behind us. We turned around and saw the man, engulfed in flame, burst from the hidden chamber. He ran haphazardly towards the lake, but slipped on the bank and fell face forward into the mud. He writhed for a moment longer, as the flames continued to burn, and then lay still.

The police did not arrive for hours, due to the snow. By that time it had snowed over five feet. I do not want to imagine what sort of horror we would have had to endure, if we had been snowbound with that lunatic.

The police chief of Detroit told me it was the most gruesome case they had seen in his entire career. The Detroit Cannibal, as the press called him, passed away shortly after the police arrived at the mansion from full body, third degree burns. Police have been unable to identify the cannibal, but I have my suspicions. They were also unable to identify most of the victims, except for my grandparents. Police believe most of them to be vagrants, alcoholics and drifters.

My family and I are back in sunny Florida. My arm is healing, and I hope to be back at work in the auto shop soon. We sold all of the furniture and artwork from the mansion, but were unable to sell the mansion. I relinquished ownership of it to the town. Last I heard they were planning to demolish it. We’re still dealing with emotional trauma of this ordeal. The kids are young enough that they should be fine with the help of some therapy. I still have trouble sleeping at night, and even now, I am plagued with the thought that it might not have been the wind that was keeping me up at night.

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Mid-West Ghost Stories, South Dakota

The 8 most haunted places in South Dakota

February 8, 2017 MJ Cooper

South Dakota is located within the Mid-western part of the United States. Outside of agriculture and industry, you don’t hear too much about it in national news. However, don’t let that fool you, South Dakota is a popular place for tourists, and sight seeing, mostly during the summer and winter seasons. Much like almost anywhere else, it has also had it’s share of paranormal activity.

Let’s dive a little deeper into the some of the most haunted places in South Dakota.

San Haven Sanatorium Dunseith, North Dakota

The San Haven Sanatorium was built the Turtle Mountains, not far from Dunseith, near the Canadian border. It opened in 1912 and treated tuberculosis patients and the developmentally disabled until the 1980s, at the time it closed due to lack of financial help. At one time, the building housed up to 900 patients, and conditions were scrappy, best case scenario. In 1987, the last patients which were at San Haven were moved to Grafton State School. It finally stopped its entryways in 1989. The property now belongs to Chippewa Indians, who bought it in the mid 1990s, and has relentlessly crumbled from neglect. More than 1,000 individuals passed on at the hospital while it was in operation, but there have been many more deaths as well. In October 2001, a 17-year-old met his untimely death while researching about the abandoned building. There are rumors around that San Haven is haunted, but they are vague. Apparitions have been listed for in the windows and the sound of a baby crying has been heard. Never-the-less, it is an extremely creepy place.

San Haven Sanatorium Dunseith, North Dakota

Eastons Castle, Aberdeen

Eastons Castle is a yellow brick home that was built sometime around 1886 and 1889. It was initially a 30 room, three stories Queen Anne style mansion, meanwhile, in 1902 it was bought by Carroll Francis Easton who had an exterior clad in yellow bricks. After the demise of Easton and his wife, their child got to be a hermit and vacated the house. It disintegrated so rapidly and people were saying it was haunted before he met his death. Right from that time there have been reports of Mrs. Easton’s ghost, the spirit of the family home keeper and maybe the most important a ghost that pursuing people using a knife!

Eastons Castle, Aberdeen

Lucky Nugget Casino, Deadwood

Yet another of the building in Deadwood that surely deserves a spot on any list of the most haunted places in South Dakota would be the Lucky Nugget Casino. This spot is so much loved by paranormal agents and over the years there has been all possible evidence gathered here to say for sure that the building is haunted! Only a portion of the activities that has been listed at the Lucky Nugget Casino during those years the scent of perfume all of a sudden appearing and afterward disappearing into the air, ghost footsteps and shadow people.

Lucky Nugget Casino, Deadwood

Rough Riders Hotel Medora, North Dakota

This hotel was built in 1884 and initially known as the Metropolitan, the Unpleasant Riders Hotel is situated in the heart of downtown Medora. It was renamed in 1903 to respect President Teddy Roosevelt’s Rough Riders, who served in the Spanish-American War. Roosevelt was the primary US President to visit Medora.

The hotel undergoes critical renovation in 2008 and is currently running at Nonprofit. For some hidden reason, over the last most recent three decades guests at the hotel have revealed encountering the ghost of a young boy on the upper floor. They would be awoken by sounds of a child playing in the hallway, but upon further research, they could find no child. Immaterial laughter and the sound of toilets flushing are reported as well. Till date, no historical occasions have been found to explain this other words presence.

Rough Riders Hotel Medora, North Dakota

Old Minnehaha Courthouse Museum, Sioux Falls

Old Minnehaha Courthouse is now a museum which is said to be haunted by different types of spirits making it a specially left aside amongst the most haunted places in South Dakota. Staff and visitors alike have explained hearing somebody roll down the stairs, but when they go to look there is no one at the stairs. There are moreover free sounds and ghost footsteps moving from room to room. A few visitors claimed to have seen a man sweeping the floor of one of the courtrooms who then disappears once he is moved closer to!

Old_Minnehaha_Courthouse_Museum-Sioux_Falls

Sage Hill Bed and Breakfast Anamoose, North Dakota

Built in 1928 and known as White School, this structure originally housed one of the first solidified primary schools in rural North Dakota. The citadel of learning was advanced for now is the right time, hot showers, and meals are filled in as a “model school” in which progressive teaching ways could be practiced. With the height, the school served 100 students, yet it still closed in 1968. In 1996, a couple purchased the building and converted it into an overnight boardinghouse called Sage Hill. As building on the B&B began, workers reported hearing moans and perceiving of a cigar smell. As said by Rich Newman, author of The Ghost Hunter’s Field Guide, guest went on to experience strange movements, including lights getting turned and on it, disembodied voices, and ghost smell. It is believed that the ghost of a previous schoolmaster haunts the building; however he is not threatening presence.

Sage_Hill_Bed_and_Breakfast_Anamoose-North_Dakota.

Orpheum Theater Sioux Falls, South Dakota

A ghost named “Larry” said to haunt this historic, 100year old theater in Sioux Falls. The Orpheum Theater was inherent Beaux-Arts style and opened in 1913. It was purchased in 1954 by the Sioux Falls Community Playhouse, and many strange things started to happen. Its new owners saw an old, ornate coffin in the boiler room. When they got back to tidy the room, the casket had disappeared. In 1959, an actor named Ray Loftesness saw the figure of a man bathed in blue-green light showing at him from the balcony. He felt this icy blast of air, and was later knocked unconscious by a dropping sandbag—not just once, but twice! A dim shadow in the state of a man has likewise showed up in a photo of the gallery. Throughout the years, this apparition came to be called “Larry,” and there is much hypothesis about who he may have been. Concurring to one unusual story, Larry was a actor who disappeared during dress rehearsal after a gunshot was heard in the light booth. His co workers found a pool of blood, meanwhile no body.

Orpheum Theater Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Mount Rushmore Brewing Company, Hill City

Once upon a time, Mount Rushmore Brewing Company was a restaurant but the building is now a Harley Davidson store. It has served in the past filled in as funeral service home what’s more, a crematorium so it is positively no outsider to death. Employees say objects move around all alone and there are unexplained commotions, especially in the basement where the remaining parts of the creation furnace can still be seen!

Mount Rushmore Brewing Company, Hill City