There's something unsettling about certain places in The Great Lakes State. Actually, downright terrifying is the right word to describe some of these haunted places in Michigan. They may not look all that scary about these houses, hotels, and abandoned institutions on the surface, but once you know their dark secrets, you'll have a hard time sleeping at night. Brace yourself, because these spooky places show a dark side to our pretty state.
1. Butler or William Ganong Cemetery, Westland
Known either as Butler or William Ganong Cemetery, this Westland space is known for "lady in white" sightings, and eerily because there are a lot of traffic accidents within its proximity… Strange coincidence? Locals seem to believe that the spectral energy of this bad blonde is what is causing the tragedy. Some neighboring locals have even reported paranormal activity in and around their homes. Check it out yourself at 3036 S Henry Ruff Rd, Inkster, MI 48141.
2. Reynolds Cemetery, Jackson
Every year on the night of November 21, people gather at the Reynolds Cemetery in Jackson to try to catch a glimpse of the spirits of Jacob Crouch and his daughter Eunice, who were brutally murdered in their sleep in 1883. Also killed were Eunice’s husband Henry and a friend, Moses Polley. The mass murder went down in history as Jackson’s most infamous unsolved mystery. To this day, the site attracts ghost hunters, who are trying to capture the essence of this haunted place. Plug Reynolds Cemetery into Google or your GPS for exact coordinates, but look for it off of KY-1709 and Maulden-Owsley County Line Road near Tyner, KY 40486.
3. Fayette, Michigan
The now abandoned town of Fayette ranks among the creepiest places in the state because of its status as a ghost town, which, if you think about it, it's quite chilling to know that a once a busy industrial center point is now completely void of population. You can visit more than 20 buildings in the gorgeously enchanting Fayette Historic State Park. Find it at 4785 II Rd, Garden, MI 49835.
4. Felt Mansion, Saugatuck
Gorgeous and historic, the Dorr E. Felt Mansion is a true delight for visitors. However, this ex-seminary and carriage house is said to be haunted by ghosts and "shadow people" who lurk the halls and cause doors to open and close mysteriously. Find out for yourself by paying it a visit at 6597 138th Ave, Holland, MI 49423.
5. The Landmark Inn, Marquette
Construction started on the Landmark Inn in 1917, but it wasn't completed until 1930. It was a snazzy stay back in the day, and quite a few celebrities called it their home for a night or two. Famed pilot Amelia Earhart was a guest at this Marquette area inn before her death. It's said that her ghost makes the occasional visit in Room 502. Guests have reported witnessing flickering lights and odd noises from under the bed. Enjoy your stay at 230 N Front St, Marquette, MI 49855.
6. Northville Hospital
This facility opened in 1952 and was considered one of the finest facilities in country for treating psychiatric patients. But that reputation did not last, as reports became public decades later that patients were forced to sleep in hallways, were left with nothing to do but chain smoke and watch television all day, and were even subjected to attacks by staff members and other patients. The facility has since been demolished, but you can drive past its former location at 41001 W Seven Mile Rd, Northville, MI 48167.
7. Holy Family Orphanage, Marquette
This site, known as Holy Family Orphanage, was built in 1915 and abandoned in the mid-century. Stories of abuse abound in this Catholic facility, and after a child died from pneumonia that she caught when she played outside during a blizzard, the nuns were said to have displayed her dead body as a lesson to the other orphans. For years, people have reported hearing sounds of children crying in the space. However, part of the old site now houses Grandview Marquette, which appear to be lovely apartments. Keep your eyes peeled for the old orphanage at 600 Altamont St, Marquette, MI 49855.
8. Paulding Light, near Watersmeet
Paulding, Michigan, is a small town in the Upper Peninsula known for a mysterious light display that occurs along a stretch of road off of US Highway 45. The mystery light appears on Robbins Pond Road, and it has been reported since the 1960s. Some blame the phenomenon on ghosts, others point to natural explanations like swamp gas, headlights, and optical illusions. Look for this spooky occurrence near Robbins Pond Rd, Michigan 49969.
9. The Henderson Castle, Kalamazoo
Though presently a popular B&B, this place is also reportedly occupied by ghosts of the original family, whose ghostly representatives apparently attempt to communicate with guests. This beautiful building dates back to 1895, and it originally hosted one of the area's most successful businessmen. Stay for a spell at 100 Monroe St, Kalamazoo, MI 49006.
10. Traverse City State Hospital
Perhaps the creepiest place in the Traverse City area, this state hospital originally opened as an insane asylum in 1885. Patients with tuberculosis, typhoid, diphtheria, and polio were also treated in this facility, appropriately designed in Gothic-style. Today, you can visit some of its restored buildings in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons... and boy, are those buildings cool to tour! Visit this spot at 830 Cottageview Dr #101, Traverse City, MI 49684.
Maybe you've heard of these haunted places in Michigan... Maybe not. Tell us, what are the most terrifying spots in Michigan that give you nightmares? Sound off in the comments!
Love spooky Michigan history? Explore thrills and chills at the The Haunted Old Mill Museum.
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