New Jersey has a rich haunted history and comes with countless ghost stories. While we love all the legends, this article focuses on actual events, local accounts, and unexplained occurrences. If you believe in the paranormal, you'll be fascinated by these tales. While some events are more terrifying than others, they're all pretty spooky when you realize spirits are behind them.
1. Tragedy after tragedy on Route 55.
In 1985, Route 55 was expanded near Deptford. The 4-mile stretch of road was built despite warnings by a local Native American shaman. Dr. Pierce/shaman Wayadanga, a doctor of divinity, let builders know that the proposed road would run over a sacred burial ground. While rerouting the highway was discussed, construction ultimately moved forward. As Route 55 was built, terrible things began to happen to the workers.A crew member was blown from an overpass, another had three heart attacks in succession, while an inspector had a deadly aneurysm. Perhaps most tragic of all, a worker was crushed and killed by an asphalt roller. One disaster followed the next, prompting the New York Times to write an article about the road tempting fate.
2. Empty bottles of scotch at the Stephen Crane House in Asbury Park.
The Stephen Crane House is the former home of poet and novelist Stephen Crane. During his career, he wrote an article about Jersey Shore ghosts. Now, he might be one. Every time scotch is brought into the house, the bottle turns up empty with the seal still intact.
3. Screams, orbs, and accidents along Riverview Drive in Totowa.
If you take a trip down Riverview Drive, you may notice several crosses and memorials. These were placed in remembrance of those who died in accidents along the road. There have been many accidents over the years, along with unexplained fog, orbs, and disembodied screams. These are often associated with Annie's ghost. Annie is said to have been murdered along the road or hit by a truck while wandering it. Either way, it's said that you can see her in your rear-view mirror but it may be a sign of impending doom.
4. Rattling chains and disappearing tools at Burlington County Prison Museum.
The Burlington County Prison was once the site of a deadly riot. Years later, the prison was turned into a museum. When renovations were being made in 1999, contractors reported tools disappearing, the sound of chains rattling, and the feeling of being watched...even when alone.
5. Ghosts on the beach, Asbury Park.
Over the years, thousands have died along the Jersey Shore in submarine attacks and shipwrecks. Two major shipwrecks occurred off the coast of Asbury Park. In 1854, 240 passengers died when the New Era grounded in dense fog. 80 years later, the SS Morro Castle caught fire in almost exactly the same spot. 137 passengers and crew members died, with the boat and bodies washing ashore. The wreckage remained for several months. In the present day, there have been numerous reports of ghost ships and spirits walking along the shoreline.
To discover more haunted New Jersey destinations, click here. Be sure to share your favorite Garden State ghost stories and legends with us.
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