In this episode of Ghostly, we explore the dark history and chilling ghost stories surrounding New Jersey’s Ringwood Mine and Ringwood Manor. From centuries-old mining tragedies to lantern-lit apparitions wandering the woods, Ringwood remains one of the state’s most active paranormal locations.
History of Ringwood
Iron mining in Ringwood began in the 1740s and eventually reached nearly 2,000 feet underground. Dangerous working conditions and numerous accidents left a long history of tragedy. During the Revolutionary War, the mines were operated by Robert Erskine, Washington’s surveyor general—whose spirit is said to linger to this day.
Hauntings & Evidence
The Hand in the Water – Archaeologist Edward Lenik reported seeing a pale hand and arm rise from a flooded mine shaft on Hope Mountain before being pulled back beneath the surface.The Knocking Ghost – Miners heard mysterious knocking sounds deep underground, always before an accident. Some believed it was a protective warning; others said a dead miner was calling for “company.”Robert Erskine’s Lantern – After Erskine’s crypt deteriorated, locals claimed to see his apparition—and even his skeleton—walking between the grave and Ringwood Manor, carrying a glowing blue lantern.Blue Lights in the Manor – Visitors have reported glowing blue figures, cold spots, disembodied voices, and footsteps inside the manor, believed by some to be Erskine or a later resident.A Modern Encounter – A local historian working late in the manor witnessed a translucent figure by the window holding a faintly glowing lantern, vanishing moments later. Listen now: GhostlyPodcast.com or wherever you get your podcasts.
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Music for this episode was performed by Michael Rivers
“Pat Facts” and “Ghost Story” themes by Mondo
“Time for a Debate” theme by Gail Gallagher gailgallaghermusic.com
Sources for this week’s episode
Spooky season: Ghost stories from the Ringwood mines
Visit the haunted Ringwood Manor in Ringwood State Park
Haunted Mine Histories: The Ghost of Robert Erskine • Edumine
GOSTS IN RINGWOOD MANOR – The New York Times
Ringwood Manor | Ringwood New Jersey | Real Haunted Place
RINGWOOD MINES/LANDFILL | Superfund Site Profile | Superfund Site Information | US EPA
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ringwood_Mines_landfill_site
https://cumulis.epa.gov/supercpad/cursites/csitinfo.cfm?id=0200663
https://www.northjersey.com/picture-gallery/news/2025/09/11/photos-of-ringwood-peters-mines-site-through-the-years/86081876007
