Stories of superstitions and hauntings abound in the Buckeye State. Sit back and enjoy these tales, then if you find yourself in Ohio, why not check out some of these spooky locations!
Brubaker Bridge in Gratis
The spirit roaming this location is that of a teenager who allegedly died in the 1930s. A car full of people crashed on this covered Bridge and the bodies were thrown into the water below. Being out in the country, the accident wasn’t discovered right away and the bodies floated downstream. A search team was organized, the victims were found and the locals tried to move on. Since then, people driving over the bridge have had their engines die inexplicably. They’ve heard strange noises coming from outside as well as tapping on car windows. The fear is that not all the victims of the crash were located and that the spirit of a missing teenager is trying to get people’s attention, so that they will continue to look for him.
Lafayette Hotel in Marietta
From when it was built in 1918 until his death in 1973, Durwood Hoag worked at the Lafayette. Upon his death, the hotel dedicated the third floor to him and that is where, legend has it, Durwood remains. Guests have reported their belongings being moved and knocked over, lights flicker and some have even reported spotting Durwood out the corner of their eyes as he continues to look after the hotel.
Kenyon College in Gambier
This college campus is full of ghostly legends. In 1949 Old Kenyon dormitory burned down. Ever since then, students in the new building have claimed to see the ghosts of the nine young men who died in the fire. In addition to roaming the halls, these specters have been known to shake people awake as if to warn them about the fire. In the same building, a student named Stuart appears on the anniversary of his death. People have claimed to see him in the windows of the fourth floor.
Punderson Manor in Newbury
Guests and employees dating from the 1970s to today have reported hearing children’s laughter on the stairs and guests have reported the feeling of someone sitting on the edge of their bed while they are sleeping. The apparition of a man hanging from the neck has reportedly been seen in the dining room. There have also been sightings of a young woman who drowned in the nearby lake, walking the shoreline. This would be a good site to explore and stay a while if you are on a ghost hunting mission.
These are just a few examples of what Ohio has to offer the fright seeker. All are open to the public.
About the Author: Brett is a guest contributor from Inn at Cedar Falls, a wonderful Hocking Hills inn.
