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Stories of the Supernatural at Spots Across Iowa
By Ethan Blake
3 min read
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Local Legends Around Iowa’s “Haunted” Locations
The Urban Legends of Des Moines
Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, is riddled with urban legends that fascinate locals and tourists alike. From abandoned buildings whispered to be portrait galleries of old spirits to eerie phenomena in graveyards, this city never fails to intrigue those who enjoy a good ghost tale.
While some of these stories might be shrouded in myths and fables, they undeniably make for captivating tales, especially when narrated under a moonlit sky. Whether you wholly believe in them or not, visiting the storied sites around Des Moines offers an unforgettable thrill and a hint of mystery.
A case in point can be found at Greenwood Cemetery. Established in the 19th century, this historic graveyard reportedly undergoes supernatural events during late hours. Ghost lights appear out of nowhere, mysterious shapes move between the gravestones, and chilling whispers are heard in the stillness of the night.
- Fire Station No. 4 allegedly haunted by its former fire chief.
- Air Lanes Bowling Alley where pins reset on their own accord.
- Mars Cafe, where the specter of a young girl often appears.
- Capitol Building said to be frequented by ghostly legislature members.
- Hoyt Sherman Place rumored to house a spectral woman in 19th-century attire.
- Cooney’s Tavern, believed to be inhabited by a friendly ghost bartender.
Ghosts of Iowa City
Just like Des Moines, Iowa City lives up to its reputation as a place harboring supernatural undercurrents amid its bustling life. These unsolved mysteries and time-honored ghost tales only add to the city’s charm.
From unsettling whispers to unexplained cold spots, local establishments here are cloaked in other-worldly mysteries. Even several well-known landmarks are suspected to be haunted, adding an unexpected edge to a simple stroll through the city’s streets.
Let’s consider Iowa Avenue Literary Walk. It is famous for the engraved bronze plaques embedded in its sidewalks. However, rumor has it that ghostly apparitions can sometimes be seen trotting down the avenue during nighttime.
- The haunted University of Iowa where students have witnessed strange occurrences.
- Black Angel Statue believed to cause death if you dare kiss it.
- The Englert Theater, rumored to be visited by former performers.
- Ped Mall, which supposedly experiences unexplained events after dark.
- Children’s Hospital – room 404 hosts the spirit of a deceased child.
- Hamburg Inn No. 2, patrons often experience inexplicable chilly spots.
Davenport’s Bone-chilling Legends
Put aside your rational mindset and dive into the world of ghostly apparitions and spine-chilling tales of Davenport, located alongside the Mississippi River. From haunted houses to spirits who haunt local landmarks, there’s no shortage of stories to give even the bravest individuals goosebumps.
Haunted happenings seem to be woven into this town’s fabric like hidden stitches. Time and again, residents and visitors alike have reported creepy occurrences, sightings, and eery sounds at certain locations.
One such place is Mary’s Grave in Blackhawk State Historic site. Locals swear they’ve encountered the ghost of Mary, a native American woman whose life was marred with tragedy and sorrow.
- Palmer College of Chiropractic known for bouncing balls of specter children.
- The historic Putnam Museum is said to house more than just artifacts.
- Davenport Public Library frequented by ghostly visitors.
- Ambrose Hall at St. Ambrose University reportedly haunted by Ambrose himself.
- The infamous Davenport Hotel where strange incidents are frequently reported.
- Riverside Cemetery, believed to be the playground of the departed spirits.
Summary of Iowa’s Haunted Locations:
City | Haunted Location | Description |
---|---|---|
Des Moines | Greenwood Cemetery | Notorious for ghost lights and mysterious whispers. |
Iowa City | Iowa Avenue Literary Walk | Famous for ghostly apparitions sighted in nighttime. |
Davenport | Mary’s Grave | Reportedly haunted by native American woman Mary. |
In conclusion, whether you’re a fan of thrills, chills, or simply enjoy a fascinating story, Iowa’s urban legends provide loads of hair-raising entertainment. Each tale is a unique blend of rich history and mystery, enticing explorers to delve deeper into the eerie corners of these towns. Hence, the next time you find yourself meandering through Iowa’s streets, remember – you might just be treading on haunted ground!
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