Maryland is associated with the serene beauty of the Chesapeake Bay and the bustle of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, but hidden within its scenic vistas lies a realm of haunting mysteries. This guide to Maryland’s most spooky locations unveils a side of the Old Line State rarely seen in travel brochures. From the eerie streets of historic Annapolis to the ghost-infested battlefields of Antietam, each location is a mosaic of history and haunting. These places, rich in colonial and Civil War history, offer chilling tales of spirits that linger in old manors, theatres, and even government buildings. As you explore Maryland’s haunted heritage, you’ll discover that this state’s true allure isn’t just its natural beauty or vibrant cities, but also its ability to connect us with the spectral echoes of the past.
One of the most haunted places in Maryland is Point Lookout Lighthouse in Scotland. This lighthouse has a long history of tragedy and disaster, with many people reporting ghostly sightings and unexplained phenomena. Another spooky location is Fort McHenry in Baltimore, which played a key role in the War of 1812 and is said to be haunted by the ghosts of soldiers who lost their lives in battle.
If you’re up for a road trip, you can explore multiple haunted locations throughout Maryland. The Jonathan Hager House in Hagerstown is a popular stop, with guided ghost tours that share the stories of the restless spirits that haunt the historic home. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, Maryland’s haunted places offer a unique glimpse into the state’s rich history and the paranormal world.
Haunted Places in Maryland: An Overview
Maryland is home to many haunted places that are known for their spooky history and paranormal activities. From lighthouses to museums, there are several places in Maryland that have been reported to be haunted. These places have attracted ghost hunters, paranormal enthusiasts, and curious visitors from all over the world.
One of the most famous haunted places in Maryland is the Point Lookout Lighthouse in Scotland. This lighthouse has been home to countless tragedies and disasters, and many people believe that it is haunted by the ghosts of those who lost their lives there. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises, feeling cold spots, and even seeing apparitions.
Another haunted place in Maryland is the Hager House in Hagerstown. This historic home was built in 1739 and is said to be haunted by two families. Visitors have reported hearing children’s voices, phantom footsteps, and witnessing objects move on their own.
The Baltimore County Almshouse in Cockeysville is another haunted place in Maryland. This almshouse was built in 1874 and was used to house the elderly, mentally ill, poverty-stricken, and children who could not be cared for by their guardians. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises, feeling cold spots, and even seeing apparitions.
Fort McHenry in Baltimore is another haunted place in Maryland. This historical American coastal fort is best known for its role in the War of 1812, when it defended Baltimore Harbor from attack by the British Navy from the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises and feeling cold spots, and some have even claimed to have seen apparitions of soldiers.
Overall, Maryland is a state with a rich history and many haunted places. Whether you are a believer in the paranormal or not, these haunted places are worth a visit for their historical significance and spooky atmosphere.
The Ghosts of Baltimore
Baltimore, Maryland is a city steeped in history. However, with that history comes a darker side. The city has its fair share of haunted places, and many of them are connected to the famous writer, Edgar Allan Poe.
Edgar Allan Poe’s Last Stop
Westminster Hall and Burying Ground in Baltimore, Maryland, is not just a place where the dead rest; it’s a place where history and the paranormal meet. Established in 1787 by the First Presbyterian Church of Baltimore, this cemetery has been the final resting place for many of Baltimore’s most notable citizens, including Edgar Allan Poe. Over the years, the cemetery evolved into a complex, even featuring a church built on top of the graves, creating what locals refer to as the “catacombs.”
But it’s not just the dead who roam here; it’s also the spirits. The site has been a hotspot for paranormal investigators and even made an appearance in an episode of Creepy Canada. Visitors and investigators have reported everything from unexplained noises to full-bodied apparitions. Some even believe that the spirit of Edgar Allan Poe himself haunts the grounds, perhaps still seeking answers to the mysteries surrounding his own death. The catacombs are said to be particularly active, with many claiming to hear footsteps and whispers when no one else is around.
The impact of these paranormal activities has been significant. The site has become a must-visit for ghost hunters and Poe enthusiasts alike. Even today, the cemetery hosts annual observances on Poe’s birth and death dates, attended by officials, clergy, and members of several literary, educational, and historical societies. The site has also been listed on the National Register of Historic Places, further cementing its place in both history and the paranormal world.
The Horse You Came In On Saloon
The Horse You Came In On Saloon, popularly known as The Horse, is a place steeped in history and mystery. Established in 1775 in Fell’s Point, Maryland, it holds the title of the oldest continuously operating saloon in America. The saloon has catered to a colorful clientele over the years, including sailors, shipbuilders, and even the legendary Edgar Allan Poe. It claims to be the last place Poe was seen before his mysterious death, and there’s even a designated seat in the bar marked as Poe’s Last Stop.
But it’s not just the history that makes this saloon intriguing; it’s also the paranormal activity. The Horse has been featured in various articles and shows, including Food Network’s “The Most-Haunted Restaurant in Every State”. Visitors have reported strange occurrences, such as objects moving on their own and unexplained noises. Some even claim to have felt the presence of Edgar Allan Poe himself, perhaps still lingering in his last haunt, contemplating the mysteries of life and death.
The Horse continues to be a popular attraction, not just for its historical significance but also for its eerie atmosphere. The owners have managed to maintain the saloon’s original theme, even after renovations. They offer unique programs like the Jack Daniels Bottle Club, where regular customers can buy and store a bottle of whiskey at the saloon. Whether you’re a history buff, a Poe enthusiast, or a paranormal investigator, The Horse offers a unique blend of the past and the present, the living and the dead.
The Horse You Came In On Saloon is not the only haunted bar in Baltimore, however. The city is home to many other haunted drinking establishments, including The Owl Bar and The Cat’s Eye Pub. It seems that Baltimore’s ghosts have a taste for a good drink.
Fort McHenry
Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland, is a place where the echoes of history blend with whispers of the paranormal. Known for its pivotal role in the War of 1812 and as the birthplace of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” the fort has another, darker side. Visitors have reported seeing spectral soldiers from the War of 1812 walking the bricks. In one instance, a woman claimed to have seen two soldiers killed by the British suddenly appear behind a tour guide.
During World War I, the barracks at Fort McHenry served as a massive 3,000-bed hospital. This period also contributes to the fort’s haunted reputation. There are stories of a female prisoner spotted in a second-floor window by re-enactors, and the jail, which served as death row during the Civil War, is considered one of the creepiest places in the fort. Some claim that if you rub your hand along the wall, you’ll feel a warm spot, possibly indicating the presence of a spirit.
The fort may have stopped offering ghost tours, but the legends and lore continue to captivate visitors. Whether you’re interested in American history or the paranormal, Fort McHenry offers a unique blend of the past and the present, the living and the dead.
In conclusion, Baltimore is a city with a rich history and a darker side. From the ghost of Edgar Allan Poe to the haunted bars of Fell’s Point, there are many spooky places to explore in this city. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, a visit to these haunted places is sure to give you a chill.
Civil War Ghosts
Maryland played a significant role in the American Civil War, and it’s no surprise that many of the state’s haunted places are connected to the conflict. Visitors to Maryland can still experience the paranormal activity that is said to be associated with the Civil War-era.
Antietam Battlefield
If you’re a history buff with a penchant for the paranormal, Antietam Battlefield in Maryland is a must-visit. Known as the site of the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, this hallowed ground is steeped in tales of the supernatural. The battle took place on September 17, 1862, between Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia and Union Gen. George B. McClellan’s Army of the Potomac. With a staggering 22,727 casualties, it’s no wonder that the restless spirits of soldiers are said to haunt the area.
Visitors and park rangers alike have reported eerie occurrences that defy explanation. Imagine walking through the battlefield and hearing phantom drumbeats, or the distant sound of a fife playing an old military tune. Some have even claimed to see ghostly apparitions of soldiers, still fighting a battle that ended over a century ago. One of the most famous ghost stories is that of the “Bloody Lane,” a sunken road where intense fighting took place. People have reported seeing spectral figures in Confederate uniforms, appearing for a moment and then vanishing into thin air.
So, what’s the aftermath of these paranormal activities? Well, they’ve turned Antietam into a hotspot for ghost hunters and curious tourists. While the scientific community remains skeptical, the numerous eyewitness accounts are hard to dismiss. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, a visit to Antietam offers a unique blend of history and mystery. But be warned: if you do venture there, you might just come back with a spine-chilling tale of your own.
Point Lookout
Point Lookout State Park in Maryland is a place where history and the supernatural collide. Located at the southernmost tip of a peninsula formed by the confluence of Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River, this state park is a public recreation area and historic preserve. It was the site of an American Civil War prisoner-of-war camp and is home to the Point Lookout Light, a lighthouse built in 1830. The park preserves a rich history that dates back to the colonial period, including its role as a lookout post during the War of 1812.
But it’s not just the history that makes Point Lookout intriguing; it’s also the tales of the paranormal. The park is reputedly haunted, with visitors and park rangers alike reporting eerie occurrences. During the Civil War, the area was transformed into a bustling port and a Union prisoner-of-war camp known as Camp Hoffman. The camp was notorious for its poor conditions, and nearly 4,000 Confederate prisoners died there. Today, people claim to hear phantom footsteps and see ghostly figures, believed to be the restless spirits of those who perished in the camp.
The impact of these paranormal activities has been significant, turning Point Lookout into a hotspot for ghost hunters and history enthusiasts. The park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and eerie occurrences. Whether you’re interested in fishing, camping, or exploring Civil War historical remains, Point Lookout offers something for everyone, including the chance to encounter the supernatural.
In conclusion, Maryland’s haunted places are a reminder of the state’s rich history, including its role in the American Civil War. Visitors to Antietam Battlefield and Point Lookout can experience the paranormal activity that is said to be associated with the conflict, including the ghosts of Civil War soldiers.
Haunted Annapolis
Annapolis, the capital city of Maryland, is known for its rich history and colonial architecture. However, beneath the surface, there are stories of ghosts and spirits that haunt the city’s historic buildings and landmarks.
Maryland State House
Maryland State House in Annapolis is not just a hub of political activity; it’s also a place where spectral inhabitants are said to roam. The most famous haunting involves Thomas Dence, a plasterer who tragically fell to his death while working on the structure’s dome. Visitors often report seeing his ghost wandering the grounds and the building. Another spirit believed to haunt the State House is a soldier from the Revolutionary War era. The room where George Washington resigned is also said to be haunted by an unknown spirit. Could it be Washington himself, or is someone else making their presence known?
Haunted Hotels
Annapolis is home to several historic hotels, some of which are rumored to be haunted.
The Maryland Inn, located on Church Circle in Annapolis, is a place where history and hauntings coalesce. Dating back to the 1770s, it holds the title of the oldest continuously operated hotel in the United States. But what makes this inn truly captivating are the tales of the paranormal. Both staff and visitors have reported a variety of eerie occurrences, including disembodied footsteps, ghostly voices, and even scents of perfume wafting through the air. Cold spots and apparitions have also been noted, one of which is a woman in a black dress who is said to have fallen to her death down a flight of stairs. Other apparitions include a bride, a sea captain, and a Civil War soldier.
Reynolds Tavern in Annapolis, Maryland, is a place where history and the paranormal intersect. The tavern is believed to be haunted by the ghost of Mary Reynolds, who inherited the building after her husband William died in 1777. Guests have reported strange occurrences, such as hearing footsteps when no one is around, feeling cold spots, and even catching glimpses of a spectral figure believed to be Mary herself. The tavern, which has been around since the 18th century, has a rich history that adds to its mysterious atmosphere.
Overall, Annapolis is a city rich in history and haunted tales. Whether it’s the Maryland State House or one of the city’s historic hotels, visitors and locals alike can experience the paranormal side of Annapolis.
Haunted Museums
Maryland is home to several haunted museums and lighthouses that are known for their paranormal activity. Visitors have reported strange occurrences, ghostly apparitions, and unexplained noises at these locations. In this section, we will explore two of the most haunted museums and lighthouses in Maryland.
Jonathan Hager House Museum
Jonathan Hager House Museum, located at 110 Key Street in Hagerstown City Park in Washington County, Maryland, is a house museum staged with historic furniture and artifacts. It was the home of Hagerstown’s founder, Jonathan Hager, built around 1739. The house is built over a never-failing spring and offers guided tours for an authentic educational heritage experience. The house also serves as a frontier fort, structurally impregnable with a protected water supply, which would have been useful in case of Indian attacks.
But what makes this house even more intriguing are the haunting tales associated with it. The house is known for its ghost tours, especially in October, where visitors can learn common legends of ghosts of the Hager House. It’s consistently ranked among the most haunted places in Maryland. Visitors have reported eerie occurrences, and the house itself has a rich history that adds to its mysterious aura.
The impact of these paranormal activities has been significant, making the Jonathan Hager House Museum a subject of intrigue for both history buffs and those interested in the paranormal. Whether you’re visiting to learn about American history or to possibly encounter a ghost, the Jonathan Hager House Museum offers a unique blend of the past and the present, the living and the dead.
Haunted Legends and Urban Myths
Maryland is home to many haunted legends and urban myths that have been passed down for generations. Some of these stories are so creepy that they have become urban legends, while others have been forgotten over time. In this section, we will explore some of the most famous haunted legends and urban myths in Maryland.
Jericho Covered Bridge
Jericho Covered Bridge, a wooden covered bridge near Jerusalem, Harford County, and Kingsville, Baltimore County, in Maryland, is a site that carries both historical and eerie significance. Built in 1865 across the Little Gunpowder Falls, this 88-foot-long and 14.7-foot-wide bridge is not just an architectural marvel but also a place that’s believed to be haunted. The bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, adding to its historical importance.
But what makes this bridge even more intriguing are the haunting tales associated with it. There are rumors that the bridge is haunted by the ghosts of Civil War soldiers. It’s believed to be a site where former Civil War soldiers committed suicide. Visitors have reported eerie occurrences, such as hearing footsteps and seeing apparitions, especially during the night.
The impact of these paranormal activities has been significant, making Jericho Covered Bridge a subject of intrigue for both history buffs and those interested in the paranormal. Whether you’re visiting to learn about American history or to possibly encounter a ghost, Jericho Covered Bridge offers a unique blend of the past and the present, the living and the dead.
Goat Man
Fletchertown Road in Bowie, Maryland, is a place that has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike, thanks to its eerie legends. The road is most famous for the urban legend of the Goat Man, a creature said to have escaped from the Department of Agriculture Research Center nearby. This being was believed to be a product of a human-animal breeding experiment gone wrong. Once it escaped, it was said to have murdered and eaten victims in the 1950s and 60s. People have reported seeing the creature in the woods nearby, describing it as having red eyes and bloody clothing.
The legend of the Goat Man has made Fletchertown Road a subject of intrigue for both thrill-seekers and those interested in the paranormal. Some have even ventured into the woods in hopes of catching a glimpse of this mythical creature. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, a drive down Fletchertown Road is sure to be an experience you won’t easily forget.
The impact of these paranormal activities has been significant, turning Fletchertown Road into a hotspot for urban legend enthusiasts and those interested in the paranormal. Whether you’re visiting to explore the legend or to possibly encounter the Goat Man, Fletchertown Road offers a unique blend of the past and the present, the living and the dead.
Glenn Dale Hospital
Glenn Dale Hospital, located in Glenn Dale, Maryland, was once a tuberculosis sanatorium and later a mental institution. The hospital is said to be haunted by the ghosts of patients who died there. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises and seeing ghostly figures walking the halls. Some have even claimed to have felt a ghostly presence touching them.
Crybaby Bridge
Crybaby Bridge is an urban legend that is popular in many states, including Maryland. The legend goes that a woman and her baby were killed in a car accident on a bridge, and now their ghosts haunt the area. People who visit the bridge at night report hearing the sound of a baby crying and seeing the ghostly figure of a woman holding a baby.
Overall, Maryland is home to many haunted legends and urban myths, including bridges, hospitals, and other creepy locations. While some of these stories may be exaggerated or false, they continue to be passed down from generation to generation, adding to the state’s rich history of ghost stories.
Haunted Eastern Shore
The Eastern Shore of Maryland is known for its beautiful landscapes, charming towns, and rich history. However, it is also home to several haunted places that have been the subject of many ghost stories and legends. Here are two of the most famous haunted places on the Eastern Shore.
Tench Tilghman’s Ghost
Tench Tilghman was a Revolutionary War hero who served as an aide-de-camp to George Washington. He was born and raised in Talbot County on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. After his death, his ghost has been said to haunt his former home, which is now a museum.
According to legend, visitors have reported hearing footsteps and seeing apparitions in the house. Some have even claimed to have seen Tilghman’s ghost himself. The museum staff has also reported strange occurrences, such as objects moving on their own and doors opening and closing by themselves.
Chestertown Hauntings
Chestertown is a historic town on the Eastern Shore of Maryland that is known for its colonial architecture and beautiful waterfront. However, it is also home to several haunted places that have been the subject of many ghost stories and legends.
One of the most famous haunted places in Chestertown is the Brampton Inn. According to legend, the ghost of a former owner, who died in a fire, haunts the inn. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure in the hallways and hearing strange noises at night.
Another haunted place in Chestertown is the White Swan Tavern. The tavern was built in the 1700s and is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former owner. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure in the tavern and hearing strange noises at night.
Overall, the Eastern Shore of Maryland has many haunted places that are worth exploring for those who are interested in the paranormal. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, these places are sure to give you a chill down your spine.
Other notable spots
Hager House
Hager House in Hagerstown, Maryland, is a place where history and the paranormal intersect. The house, originally known as “Hager’s Fancy,” was built by Jonathan Hager, the German immigrant who founded Hagerstown back in the 18th century. The house has been a quiet sentinel for nearly 300 years, and in all that time, it’s bound to collect a ghost or two. Or more. For decades, curators and tour guides have experienced the presence of other-worldly pranksters, telling the typical tales of disembodied voices and objects that move all by themselves. Some folks even spot a woman looking out the windows or get the gnawing sensation that they’re being watched.
The nursery is especially spooky; the cradle will rock without any human aid. Temperatures rise and fall without explanation. And during a ghost tour a few years ago, a woman fainted there. Then there’s the corn cob doll, which appears in different places — apparently moved by unseen hands that tour guides suspect belong to one of the children who once occupied the house. And possibly still does.
The impact of these paranormal activities has been significant, making Hager House a subject of intrigue for both history buffs and those interested in the paranormal. Whether you’re visiting to learn about American history or to possibly encounter a ghost, Hager House offers a unique blend of the past and the present, the living and the dead.
The Baltimore County Almshouse
The Baltimore County Almshouse in Cockeysville, Maryland, is a place where the past seems to linger in the present. Once a temporary home for children whose parents couldn’t care for them, the building now houses the Historical Society of Baltimore County. But it’s not just history that you’ll find here. The almshouse is said to be haunted by the sounds of children playing. Visitors have even reported seeing visions of children’s faces in the windows of the historic building.
Conclusion
Maryland is a state with a rich history, and with that history comes many tales of haunted places. Some of the most haunted places in Maryland include Fort McHenry, Point Lookout Lighthouse, and the Jonathan Hager House. These locations have all been the site of countless tragedies and disasters, and many people have reported experiencing paranormal activity when visiting them.
While there is no scientific evidence to prove the existence of ghosts, many people believe in their existence and have reported experiencing strange occurrences at these haunted locations. Whether you are a believer or a skeptic, visiting these places can be a thrilling experience. Just be sure to take precautions and respect the sites and their history.
If you are interested in exploring the haunted places of Maryland, there are many tours and events that you can participate in. Some of these include the “Not So Spooky Ghost Tours” in Allegany County and the guided ghost tour of the Jonathan Hager House. These tours offer a unique opportunity to learn about the history and legends of these haunted places while experiencing the paranormal activity for yourself.
In conclusion, Maryland is home to many haunted places with fascinating histories and legends. Whether you are looking for a spooky adventure or just want to learn more about the state’s history, exploring these haunted locations can be a memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most haunted locations in Maryland?
Maryland is home to several haunted locations, including Point Lookout Lighthouse in Scotland, Fort McHenry in Baltimore, and the Jonathan Hager House in Hagerstown. Other notable haunted places include the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center and Fletchertown Road in Bowie.
Are there any ghost tours in Maryland?
Yes, there are several ghost tours available in Maryland. Some of the most popular ones include the Ghost Tour of Frederick, the Annapolis Ghost Tour, and the Baltimore Ghost Tours.
What is the history behind the hauntings in Maryland?
Many of the haunted locations in Maryland have a rich history of tragedy and disaster. For example, Point Lookout Lighthouse was once a prisoner of war camp during the Civil War, and the Jonathan Hager House was the site of several deaths during the French and Indian War.
What are some famous ghost stories from Maryland?
One of the most famous ghost stories from Maryland is the legend of the Goatman, a half-man, half-goat creature said to haunt Fletchertown Road in Bowie. Other popular ghost stories include the tale of the Lady in White at the Patapsco Female Institute in Ellicott City and the ghost of Edgar Allan Poe at his former home in Baltimore.
Have there been any paranormal investigations conducted in Maryland?
Yes, several paranormal investigations have been conducted in Maryland, including at the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center and the Jonathan Hager House. These investigations have yielded a variety of evidence, including EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena) and ghostly apparitions.
What precautions should be taken when visiting haunted places in Maryland?
Visitors to haunted places in Maryland should always be respectful of the location and its history. It is important to follow any posted rules and regulations, and to avoid trespassing or disturbing any potential paranormal activity. Additionally, visitors should be mindful of their own safety and take precautions such as bringing a flashlight and wearing appropriate footwear.
