Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is home to a ton of history as well as some of the eeriest ghost stories in the nation. Today we are digging into a few of my favorite tales and legends from the 19th century.

Be sure to check out the book, "Southern Ghost Stories: Philadelphia"!

Step back in time to centuries past and uncover the haunted history of Rock Castle in Sumner County, Tennessee. From its origins amidst the untamed wilderness of the late 18th century to its status as a cherished landmark today, Rock Castle has witnessed a wealth of triumphs, tragedies, and secrets.

Join us as we journey through the lives of the Smith family, who carved out a home in the rugged landscape and left an indelible mark on the region. Learn about Daniel Smith, the visionary land surveyor turned public servant, and his daughter Polly, whose forbidden romance with Samuel Donelson captivated hearts and sparked intrigue.

But beyond the tales of love and ambition lies a more mysterious side to Rock Castle. Explore the whispers of ghostly apparitions that are said to haunt its halls, from the restless spirit of Harry Smith to the lingering presence of a servant named Sallie. Delve into the legends of former slaves whose spectral figures are said to still roam the estate, tending to the echoes of the past.

For more stories about Hendersonville, Tennessee, please check out my book, "Southern Ghost Stories: Hendersonville, Tennessee."

Hidden away underneath Lookout Mountain you will find Ruby Falls, a popular tourist attraction. The cave has history and there are rumors that it is very haunted. Find out the haunted history of Ruby Falls in today's episode.

For more eerie tales, please check out "Southern Ghost Stories: Chattanooga".

Who or what is the Jersey Devil? Why has it become a fixture in New Jersey and known as one of the most popular cryptids in the United States. What are its origins and do they originate with some dinosaur fossils that were discovered many years ago?

Join us as we look in to the mythology and history of the Jersey Devil.

For more eerie tales, please check out our book, "Fear & Folklore: American Monsters".

Why does a mysterious Lady in White inhabit a home on Third Avenue in Franklin, Tennessee? The origins may lie in a tale about a woman who decided to cancel her wedding at the last minute.

Join us and find out about the haunted history of the Corn House. Don't forget to check out Southern Ghost Stories: Franklin, Tennessee for more eerie tales.

Enter the world of late 19th-century Chicago, where Dr. Mabel Jackman emerges as a prominent figure in the city's spiritualist circles. With her boardinghouse on North Clark Street serving as a hub for mystical gatherings, Dr. Jackman earns the moniker "the Shepherdess of Paradise" as she offers guidance and conducts seances for a devoted following.

However, Dr. Jackman's influence takes a darker turn when Dr. Alfred J. Cole becomes entangled in a dubious business proposition presented by two mysterious men, Frank Edwards and George White. Amidst accusations of manipulation and hypnotic coercion, Dr. Jackman's reputation comes under scrutiny as her involvement in Dr. Cole's misfortune unfolds.

As Dr. Jackman's tale unfolds, her legacy of mystery and scandal spans decades, from opulent mansions to the shadowy depths of the House of Seven Bathrooms. Join us as we delve into the enigmatic saga of Dr. Mabel Jackman, exploring the enduring allure of spiritualism amidst a backdrop of deception and intrigue in 19th-century Chicago.

In this episode, we explore the eerie tale of Knox Martin, a condemned man whose execution in 1879 in Nashville takes a bizarre turn, echoing themes of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. From the grim discovery at his sister's cabin to Knox's chilling hanging witnessed by thousands, we uncover the shocking attempt to bring him back from the dead using electric current. As rumors swirl and history unfolds, we confront the dark legacy of medical curiosity and the exploitation of the condemned, delving into the timeless fascination with life, death, and the boundaries of human experimentation. Join us as we unravel the mysteries surrounding Knox Martin's electrifying resurrection.

For more eerie tales from South Nashville, please check out our book, "Southern Ghost Stories: South Nashville".

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The old Central State Hospital in Nashville was the site of fires, murders and a pauper's graveyard. Today the property is home to an insurance company and a warehouse. Spoiler alert: They are both haunted!

If you want to learn more about the old asylum, please check out our book Southern Ghost Stories: South Nashville.

In the 19th century the Galt House was the premier place to stay in Louisville, Kentucky. It was also the scene of some high profile murders and a deadly fire. While the old hotel is gone, the buildings there in its original footprint are said to be very, very haunted.
For more information on hauntings in Louisville, check out our book, Southern Ghost Stories: Louisville.

Is an old doctor's office that has been converted into a shopping center haunted by a Union soldier? We dig into the aftermath of the Battle of Franklin to find out just who the ghost in the building really is!