Even though it's a small state, there are plenty of Delaware hauntings that could spook even the most savvy spirit seeker. Did you know the cursed past of the prettiest bridge in the first state? What about the horrific history of a favorite field trip destination? If you don't think there are ghosts in Delaware, you should read up on these creepy places in the First State.
1. Fort Delaware
Fort Delaware on Pea Patch Island was used as a prison camp for Confederate prisoners of war during the Civil War. It was notorious for being a violent, inhumane prison, and conditions were horrifying. It is no surprise that the 2,700+ soldiers that died in the barracks have returned to haunt the grounds. To this day, Fort Delaware is considered one of the most haunted places in the world. In the fall, they offer paranormal investigations, ghost tours, and overnight excursions. The Fort is so haunted that it has been featured on Ghost Hunters more than once. Click here to read more about the Paranormal Activity at Fort Delaware.
2. Lums Pond State Park, Bear
Lums Pond is a scenic Delaware State Park located in New Castle County. Things haven't always been peaceful here, and legend tells of a young woman who was violently attacked and murdered in the woods behind the Swamp Train long before the park was designated. Now, you can camp on the same hallowed grounds - if you're brave enough. Click here to read more about the most haunted campground in Delaware.
3. The Indian River Inlet Bridge
In 1934, the first bridge over the Indian River Inlet was built to help vacationers get to the southern Delaware beaches. For the next 80 years, the bridge was plagued by failure after failure. The first bridge lasted just five years before it was deemed too dangerous to drive. A new one was built, but it did not last a decade before. in 1948, three men were killed when the second bridge built at the site collapsed. They plunged to their death in the icy bay. There have been so many failed attempts at creating a stable bridge over the inlet that it almost seems like those poor souls are still haunting the project
Click here to read more about the deadly history of the famous Delaware bridge.
4. The Addy Sea Inn
Several of the rooms in this Bethany Beach Bed and Breakfast are known to be haunted. In Room #1, the bathtub wakes visitors with its violent, unexplained shaking. In room #6, you can hear organ music filling the air throughout the day. In other rooms, electronics suddenly turn off, and ghosts have shown up in guests photos. Would you dare spend a night here?
Click here to read more about the most haunted B&B in Delaware.
5. Rockwood Manor
Rockwood Manor was built by Joseph Shipley's team of architects in the 1850s on over 70 acres of land. For years, his family occupied the residence, and eventually it was donated to be preserved. To this day, it looks like it's been frozen in time. Rockwood is known for being haunted by former residents of the hall - notably the yougn son of Edward Bringhurst, Jr., who lived at Rockwood in the 1890s. The estate has been featured on ghost hunting TV shows several times, and guests can take Ghost Tours at the site, which is now a public park.Click here to read more about this old mansion with a history of hauntings.
6. Woodburn
The Ghosts of the Governor's Mansion at Woodburn are my favorite ghosts in Delaware! They've been known to empty decanters of wine, help themselves to breakfast with guests, and drink vintage bottles of wine from the historic wine cellar. Of course, like any haunted colonial property, there are a couple of disgruntled spirits here, too...Click here to read more about the fun loving ghosts of Woodburn - and a few of the not-so-friendly ones, too.
7. Maggie's Bridge
Maggie's Bridge near the Woodland Ferry has been a local legend for nearly a century. The story goes, if you visit the bridge and shout "Maggie, I have your baby!" the ghost of Maggie Bloxom, a woman killed in a carriage accident in the 1800s, will appear. Visitors hear spooky sounds, experience car trouble, and see sights that aren't quite explainable when they dare to cross the bridge.Click here to read more about the most haunted road in the state of Delaware.
What's your favorite Delaware ghost story? Are there any local ghosts that haven't made the list? Tell us in the comments - we're always looking for more stories to tell around the campfire!
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