Throughout history there are stories of notable individuals whose impact continues to influence the nation. Some of these figures are believed to have a presence after death. Below are some infamous historical figures from the United States whose spirits are said to linger haunting the places they once frequented.
Abraham Lincoln
Historical Background
Abraham Lincoln, who served as the President of the United States is remembered for guiding the nation during the Civil War and ending slavery. His tragic assassination in 1865 by John Wilkes Booth at Fords Theatre remains a moment in American history.
Ghost Sightings
Reports of Lincolns ghost appearing at the White House are not uncommon. Various accounts mention sightings by First Lady Grace Coolidge, Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands and Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Many believe that Lincoln manifests during times of crisis and is often spotted in areas like the Lincoln Bedroom and Yellow Oval Room either gazing out of windows or seated near a fireplace.
Dolley Madison
Historical Background
Dolley Madison, who was married to President James Madison, established a standard for First Ladies with her actions. During the War of 1812 when British forces burned down the White House she saved items from destruction.
Ghost Sightings
It is rumored that Dolley Madisons spirit watches over and protects the Rose Garden at the White House. During Woodrow Wilsons time in office there were reports from staff who claimed to have seen the ghost of a woman when they attempted to relocate the garden. Her spectral presence persuaded them to leave the garden untouched.
Benjamin Franklin
Historical Background
Benjamin Franklin, a figure in Americas founding, known for his role as a Founding Father, inventor and diplomat. His contributions to the American Enlightenment and advancements in physics through his discoveries and theories on electricity are well documented.
Ghost Sightings
Legend has it that sightings of Franklins ghost have been recounted at the American Philosophical Society headquarters in Philadelphia. Witnesses have described glimpses of his apparition near the library with stories circulating about his statue outside the building coming to life and dancing in the streets. Speculations suggest that his spirit revisits locales he frequented within the city. These alleged sightings trace back to as early as the 1800s and continue to captivate both locals and tourists.
Mark Twain
Historical Background
Mark Twain, born Samuel Clemens, celebrated for his contributions as an American author, humorist and social commentator. His enduring literary works such as “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” are regarded as pieces of American literature.
Ghost Sightings
It is believed that Twains spirit wanders within his residence located in Hartford, Connecticut. Accounts, from staff and visitors detail sightings of his figure clad in his iconic white suit while enjoying a cigar accompanied by echoes of his laughter resonating through the halls.
Edgar Allan Poe
Historical Background
Edgar Allan Poe, an American author, poet and critic famous for his dark and eerie stories like “The Raven” and “The Tell Tale Heart ” left behind a legacy shrouded in mystery following his untimely death in 1849.
Ghost Sightings
Poe’s ghost is often reported at Westminster Hall and Burying Ground in Baltimore, where he is buried. Visitors claim to see a spectral figure dressed in black, believed to be Poe himself, standing by his grave. His spirit is also said to haunt his former home in Baltimore and the nearby “Horse You Came In On Saloon”, one of the city’s oldest bars.
Thomas Jefferson
Historical Background
Thomas Jefferson, who served as the President of the United States and played a key role in drafting the Declaration of Independence was admired for his forward thinking leadership, diplomatic skills and dedication to American freedom.
Ghost Sightings
Legends suggest that the spirit of Thomas Jefferson lingers at Monticello, his estate in Virginia. Visitors and staff have shared stories of hearing the sound of violin music believed to be played by Jefferson himself. Some claim to have glimpsed his ghost wandering around the property near the library.
Betsy Ross
Historical Background
Betsy Ross is widely recognized for her role in creating the American flag. Her former residence, in Philadelphia—where she is said to have sewn the stars and stripes—now stands as a museum commemorating her significant contribution.
Ghost Sightings
Legend has it that Betsy Rosss spirit haunts her namesake house in Philadelphia. Visitors have reported seeing her ghost at night near her former bedroom. There have also been accounts of noises resembling footsteps and sewing machines operating autonomously.
J.P. Morgan
Historical Background
John Pierpont Morgan was a banker and financier known for shaping the American financial landscape in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He played a role in establishing various major corporations.
Ghost Sightings
It is believed that the spirit of Morgan lingers at the Morgan Library & Museum in New York City. Both staff and visitors claim to have witnessed his figure in the corridors of the library often accompanied by the scent of his favorite cigars. His presence is particularly notable in his study, where much of his business dealings took place.
Summary
These eerie tales provide insights into the enduring legacies of some of Americas renowned figures. Regardless of ones beliefs regarding ghosts these narratives add an element of enigma and fascination to the lives of individuals who have made impacts on the nation. Their spectral stories continue to captivate our imagination serving as reminders that history never truly fades away.
