Florida, known for its sun-kissed beaches and vibrant nightlife, hides a darker side beneath its sunny exterior. This side is steeped in mystery, with haunted locales that beckon the brave and the curious. In this article, we delve into the most haunted and creepy places in Florida, exploring their history, the tales that shroud them, and the eerie experiences reported by those who dare to visit.
The St. Augustine Lighthouse – St. Augustine:
- History: Dating back to the 1870s, this lighthouse is one of the oldest in the country and has witnessed numerous tragedies, including the deaths of workers during its construction.
- Hauntings: Visitors and paranormal investigators report seeing the ghost of a former lighthouse keeper and hearing the laughter of two girls who tragically died on the property. There’s also a shadowy figure seen on the lighthouse stairs.
The Devil’s School – Jacksonville:
- History: Public School No. 4, nicknamed “The Devil’s School,” was built in the early 20th century. It’s now abandoned, with its history marred by rumors of nefarious activities and deaths.
- Hauntings: Tales of apparitions, screams, and phantom footsteps abound. Some claim the spirits of former students and a principal roam its dilapidated halls.
The Biltmore Hotel – Coral Gables:
- History: Opened in 1926, this luxurious hotel has seen its fair share of history, including serving as a hospital during World War II.
- Hauntings: The most famous ghost is that of Thomas Walsh, a mobster killed in the hotel. His spirit is said to linger in the suite where he was shot. Guests have also reported inexplicable noises and ghostly sightings.
The Cuban Club – Ybor City:
- History: Built in the early 1900s for Cuban immigrants, the Cuban Club has a history marked by tragic events, including several deaths.
- Hauntings: The spirits of a young boy who drowned in the club’s pool and a woman who committed suicide in the building are said to haunt the premises. Eerie occurrences include phantom piano music and shadowy figures.
The Riddle House – West Palm Beach:
- History: Originally a funeral parlor, the Riddle House was moved to Yesteryear Village in the 1990s. Its history is rife with tales of death and despair.
- Hauntings: The ghost of Joseph, a former employee who hanged himself in the attic, is said to be particularly active, moving objects and showing hostility towards men.
May-Stringer House – Brooksville:
- History: Over 160 years old, this house is now a museum. It was once a private residence and witnessed the death of several of its inhabitants, including children.
- Hauntings: More than 100 ghosts are rumored to haunt this house. The most active is a young girl named Jessie Mae, who died in the house at a young age. Visitors have heard children’s laughter and seen toys move on their own.
The Old Jail – St. Augustine:
- History: Built in 1891 and operational until 1953, this jail was known for its harsh conditions and several executions.
- Hauntings: The spirits of former inmates and a sheriff are said to haunt the jail. Visitors report cold spots, ghostly touches, and apparitions.
Fort East Martello Museum – Key West:
- History: This Civil War-era fort is now a museum, but its most famous exhibit is Robert the Doll, a supposedly cursed toy that belonged to artist Robert Eugene Otto.
- Hauntings: The doll is said to move on its own and is believed to cause misfortune to those who disrespect it. Visitors often leave offerings to appease the doll.
Koreshan State Historic Site – Estero:
- History: This site was once the home of the Koreshan Unity, a utopian community founded in the late 19th century.
- Hauntings: Visitors report strange lights, ghostly figures, and an eerie feeling of being watched, believed to be the spirits of former Koreshan members.
The Don CeSar Hotel – St. Pete Beach:
- History: Opened in 1928, this iconic pink hotel has a history of glamour and tragedy, including the death of its original owner.
- Hauntings: The ghost of Thomas Rowe, the hotel’s founder, and his lost love are said to roam the halls. Guests report seeing their apparitions and experiencing unexplained phenomena.
These locations, each with its own unique and haunting story, contribute to Florida’s reputation as a state not just of sunshine but also of shadows. They attract those fascinated by the paranormal and offer a glimpse into the mysteries that lie beyond the realm of the known.
Whether it’s the spine-tingling sensations at the St. Augustine Lighthouse or the unsettling presence of Robert the Doll, Florida’s haunted places invite you to explore the eerie side of the Sunshine State.