Politics can be scary, but what about the politics still lingering from the grave? While today the historic North Carolina State Capitol serves as a beautiful reminder of the Ol’ North State’s past, it also houses a few scary stories with some truth to back them up.
The historic Capitol was built in 1840 and today is regarded as one of the best preserved in our country. Boasting architecture in the Greek Revival style, the building is home to three floors, granite halls, and period-type furnishings making it seem as if time has stood still for over 160 years. Today, the state's legislature and politicians go about their business in a new building, yet many who once roamed these halls don't seem to want to leave anytime soon.
Many of us remember visiting the Capitol building as children and being greeted by the statues of notable presidents George Washington, Andrew Jackson, James Knox Polk and Andrew Johnson. Large elms shade the statues and add more grandeur to the historic building. While politics have moved on, history certainly lingers here. Many of the hauntings have been reported by the night guards of the Capitol building. The elevator sounds as if it's moving, voices are heard carrying on conversations, a large stench of cigar smoke is often smelled. There have even been scarier encounters, like screams of a woman reportedly murdered on he state Capitol's steps.
One area that is a hotbed for paranormal activity is the library. In 2004, ghost researchers investigated the building collecting EVP (electronic voice phenomena) and using infrared cameras. In the library, orbs of light were captured on camera, which is attributed to spiritual energy. Researchers also picked up static, possibly voices, and whispers. Many who visit have also noted a strange energy or the feeling of being watched.
Throughout the years, the building has undergone multiple renovations. Stories were reported from the workers of tools going missing or moved around in various spots. During late hours, night guards have heard music playing.
Security guards have also encountered the sounds of footsteps, voices, breaking glass, disembodied screams and even the feeling of a hand on a shoulder. Some attribute a strong cigar stench to notable North Carolina politician and former Governor Zebulon Vance.
While today the State Capitol building is a beautiful place to explore and learn about North Carolina history, it seems many politicians and former workers haven't been able to entirely leave their former place of work. As for the supposed murder, some sources claim there has never been a murder or death in or outside the building, while others cite that a woman was murdered on the front steps. The screams that are sometimes heard by the night workers are attributed to the possible murder.
What do you believe about the State Capitol building? Have you ever visited and encountered a weird energy or feeling? Do you believe it to be haunted?
While many of us will only be able to see the State Capitol building during daylight hours, you can check in and spend the night at these 10 haunted hotels in North Carolina.
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