New Jersey has a lot of history. For hundreds of years, the area was inhabited by Native Americans from the Lenni-Lenapi and Powhatan tribes. European colonization began in 1609, and New Jersey became a state in 1787. Many Revolutionary War battles were fought here, and the state has seen its share of disasters. It should come as no surprise that we have a handful of ghost stories to share.
1. The Parkway Phantom
At exit 82, near the Tom's River State Police Barracks, you'll find the Parkway Phantom. A man will appear waving his arms, trying to cross the road. Dressed in a long topcoat, he only appears at night. Legend has it that he died crossing the stretch, and is still trying to make it to the other side.
2. The Miner At Ringwood State Park
Hope Mine is one of the oldest mines in New Jersey, predating the Revolutionary War. It lies abandoned in Ringwood State Park, empty except for a lone miner. Ed Lenik, a respected historian, apparently saw the ghost of a former miner wallowing in the shaft. He also heard groans. Others have reported the sound of hammering and booms.
3. Atco's Ghost Boy
According to local legend, a boy was run down by a drunk driver while chasing his basketball into the road. He can still be found dribbling at night, along a lonely stretch on Burnt Mill Road. There have been many sightings, some involving a strange fog. Be prepared to make a quick u-turn if you get scared out of your wits, this road is a dead end.
4. Bicycle Pete
When Sterling Hill Mine closed, a former miner named Pete used to ride his bicycle around the mine and surrounding area. One day Pete went out for a bike ride and was never heard from again; only Pete’s bicycle was recovered. Legend has it that he fell down the mine shaft and that his ghost haunts the mine to this day. Supposedly, if you walk into the mine and yell "BICYCLE PETE!" he will pull you down to your doom. I wouldn’t suggest trying it!
5. The Ghosts Of Georgian Court
There have been several deaths on the property of this university over the years, but none of the ghosts take the form of a person. There have been numerous accounts of strange lights, screams and floating orbs.
6. The Supernatural Spies Of The Seabrook Wilson House
Also called "Spy House" for its role in the Revolutionary War, this has been called the most haunted house in America. Paranormal experts have studied the site and several spirit signatures were detected. A ghost boy and moving rocking chair have been reported, among other haunted happenings.
7. The Haunted Hindenburg Hangar
The tragic explosion of the Hindenburg resulted in the death of 36 passengers and crew. Hangar 1 was used as a temporary morgue and many say it is now haunted. Strange footprints have been reported along with numerous shapes in the sky. The ghost of the Hindenburg itself, perhaps?
What other chilling New Jersey ghost tales can you add to this list? I'd love to hear about them in the comments!
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