At 107 North Fairfax St. in Alexandra, Virginia is a three-story building that became the location of one of Alexandria’s most enduring tales of love, loss, and hauntings: The Burning Bride.

It was on the evening of June 27, 1868, perhaps the night before the couple was set to marry when 26 year-old Laura Schafer, excited for her upcoming nuptials accidentally spilled burning fuel from a kerosene lamp onto her dress. Within moments she was alight. At 11 in the morning on Sunday June 28, 1868, on what should have been her wedding day, Laura Schafer died of her injuries; her beloved fiancé at her side. 

Yet many believe that Laura Schafer remains trapped in the house, forever reliving the horror of her death and unfulfilled life.

Disclaimer: This episode of Southern Gothic contains includes a description of suicide, if you or a loved one is thinking about suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Lifeline) at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text the Crisis Text Line (text HELLO to 741741). Both services are free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All calls are confidential. You can also call 911.

Get your tickets to see Southern Gothic live on October 14, 2022 at the Palace Theatre in Gallatin, Tennessee!

Help Southern Gothic grow by becoming a Patreon Supporter today!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices