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.