Shepherdstown, West Virginia, is a small town said to be a hotbed of paranormal activity. The town was founded in 1762 and has a population of only about 1911 people, but there are plenty of ghosts to encounter. From the Confederate soldiers that haunt the streets to the disembodied voices that echo through the halls of historic buildings, Shepherdstown is the perfect location for ghost hunters.
Warning: Information about the following ghosts in Shepherdstown may be inaccurate. I used the internet to research the local ghosts and can not verify the accuracy of the information. I apologize in advance if any of the information is inaccurate or I’m missing any important ghosts.
Also, I’ve spent a lot of time in Shepherdstown. I used to attend the college. I’ve eaten at many of the restaurants. I’ve been in many of the buildings mentioned and have had no paranormal experiences. The closest event that happened to me was at the used bookstore. I went to the second floor and felt dizzy and disoriented. Unfortunately, old construction and uneven floors can cause dizziness. I’ve experienced nothing paranormal in Shepherdstown, but I also wasn’t looking for it.
One ghost I found is the spirit of a Civil War soldier who appears at night on the streets. This ghost is the spirit of a young Confederate soldier who was killed in battle and buried in an unmarked grave. People see him haunting the streets, dressed in full Confederate uniform, looking sad and lost.
Another ghost that haunts Shepherdstown is the spirit of a young woman who died in a tragic accident. According to the legend, the woman was on her way to meet her lover when she was killed in a carriage accident. Her ghost wanders the streets, still dressed in the clothes she was wearing on the day of her death, and holding a bouquet. Some say that if you see her ghost, it is a sign of impending death.
Many ghosts reside at the Historic Shepherdstown Museum. This fascinating place sits inside the Entler Hotel. Here, you’ll learn all about the history of the town. Visit the top floor to see a replica of an old hotel room. This is where the museum’s resident ghost, William Payton Smith, spends the night. Smith was killed while participating in a duel. They laid him in his bed, where he screamed in pain for his mother until he died of his wounds. The ghost of a young girl also haunts the entrance of the Entler Hotel. The ghost is a young girl who died in a fire that occurred in the hotel in the 1800s. Visitors to the museum have reported seeing the ghost of the young girl dressed in a white gown, standing near the entrance or wandering the halls.
Other ghost stories related to the town include a ghostly apparition of a lady dressed in white, who wonders around the streets of Shepherdstown. They say she is the ghost of a bride who died on her wedding day, while others believe she is the spirit of a woman who was murdered by her lover.
Others have reported strange noises and ghostly sightings at the Mecklenburg Inn, which is said to be haunted by the ghost of a Confederate soldier. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises in the night, such as the sound of boots walking on the floorboards and the sound of a man’s voice. Others have claimed to see the ghost of the soldier, dressed in full Confederate uniform, wandering the halls of the inn.
Next is the Shepherdstown Sweet Shop and Bakery. In addition to making pepperoni rolls, which I love, Shepherdstown Sweet Shop and Bakery also has spectral visitor. Employees and visitors often report feeling the ghost of “The Colonel” brush by them as they walk through the shop. You may even hear him whisper in your ear. They used the building as a hospital during the Battle of Antietam, so it’s no surprise a ghost has taken up residence. Maybe he enjoyed baking in life. I’ve eaten here many times, but nothing like this has happened to me so far.
Shepherd University McMurran Hall was also used as a hospital during the Civil War, and many spirits continue to wander inside. Students report seeing a shadowy figure standing by the windows, especially the clock tower window. An older man peers down at all the students. Maybe he wanted to go to college. Also, many years ago, a Shepherd College
student took part in a sorority hazing ritual. The group made her walk the railroad bridge to join the sorority. Unfortunately, the train came, and the student was killed. Perhaps her ghost haunts the railroad and surrounding river.
For another creepy thrill, explore Elmwood Cemetery. Over 100
Confederate soldiers are buried within these grounds. Come late at night and you might spot a ghost. There are also graves for revolutionary soldiers in the Shepherdstown graveyards.
In conclusion, Shepherdstown, West Virginia, is a town that is full of history and legend. From ghosts to eerie noises and strange sightings, the town is home to several ghosts stories that have passed down through the generations. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the ghost stories of Shepherdstown are sure to capture your imagination and leave you wondering about the truth behind the tales.