Of all the Mississippi cemeteries with sinister reputations, none quite compares to the Franklin Cemetery. Not only has it been dubbed one of the spookiest cemeteries in Mississippi, but it’s also touted as one of the most haunted graveyards in the nation.
Franklin Cemetery, which is also known as Garden of Hope Cemetery, is located off Chamberlain Road in Gautier.
Despite the fact that it’s a small community cemetery, it’s garnered national attention.
Over the years, it's topped several "most haunted" lists. Most recently, it was deemed one of the 15 most haunted cemeteries in the U.S.
The graveyard is said to be haunted by several children, particularly a little girl in a blue dress, who have been seen playing among the tombstones.
According to legend, Franklin Cemetery is the final resting place of a local man, his wife, and five children. The story goes that the man killed his entire family and then himself after losing his job at Ingalls Shipbuilding. It should be noted that, though this story has been repeated for years, it’s never been confirmed.
The children’s graves haven’t been located in the cemetery, but that doesn’t prove they’re not buried there.
If the siblings, along with their mother, were killed by their father, as the story says, then there would be seven tombstones with the same last name and date of death – however, these tombstones don’t exist. But…there are several unknown and unmarked burial sites in the cemetery, which could possibly belong to the family.
Whether or not the cemetery is haunted, there’s no denying that it’s got an ominous feel.
Eerily secluded, it’s tucked away at the end of a desolate road, which is a bit overgrown on both sides. Ancient oaks with sprawling branches that practically touch the gravesites perfectly complete the spooky scene.
You may be tempted to explore this cemetery for yourself; however, that might not be possible.
It’s on private property, so visiting without consent is strongly discouraged.
So, did you know about this cemetery? Ever visited? If so, did you experience anything? Know of another haunt? Tell us!
This isn’t the only spooky spot in Mississippi. Click here to read about the most haunted house in the state.
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