The Brunswick Islands, known for its picturesque beaches and friendly coastal towns, also harbors some legendary locations that are perfect for those seeking a spine-tingling adventure. Here are five spooky spots in the area, each with its own ghostly tales and mysterious history.
Franklin Square Park
Franklin Square Park, established in Southport in 1792, is home to one of the Brunswick Islands' most poignant ghost stories. The tale begins with a mother who, after a long winter, promised her daughters a picnic in the park. Sadly, the mother passed away that winter. However, her three daughters honored her promise by having a spring picnic in the park. They also built a stone fence along the edge of the park to commemorate her. Tragically, the daughters each died of pneumonia by the end of the summer of 1821. Today, locals claim that on dark nights, you can hear the laughter of the girls playing games of chase and tag in the park.
Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson
The ruins of Brunswick Town, in Winnabow near Southport, offers a unique glimpse into the history of both the American Revolution and the Civil War. Established as a Cape Fear River port town, it was destroyed by the British in 1776 and later served as a Confederate stronghold, Fort Anderson, during the Civil War. The ruins of colonial structures and Fort Anderson create an eerie atmosphere that has even been used as a filming location for the TV show "Sleepy Hollow." Visitors often report feeling a ghostly presence among the ruins.
Bald Head Island
Theodosia Burr, daughter of Aaron Burr, one of America’s most intriguing historical figures, is said to haunt the shores of Bald Head Island. After the death of her ten-year-old son in 1812, Theodosia set sail to visit her father in New York but never reached her destination. The schooner Patriot and its passengers disappeared, leading to many theories about its fate. Some believe that Theodosia fell victim to a raid by pirates off the coast of the small island. Her ghost is reportedly seen wandering the shore, still searching for her lost family.
Old Smithville Burial Grounds
The oldest cemetery in Southport, Old Smithville Burial Grounds, dates back to the town’s founding in 1756. This historic burial ground is the final resting place for several notable figures, including Colonel Benjamin Smith and numerous Confederate soldiers. The ghost of Tony Caseletta, an Italian sailor who perished in a shipwreck in 1882, is said to haunt the cemetery. Visitors often report seeing his apparition and hearing his singing as he wanders among the tombstones.
Northrop Mall
Northrop Mall, an antiques store on East Moore Street in Southport, is said to be haunted by the ghost of Samuel Northrop, a local businessman from the early 1900s. Northrop met an untimely demise on the second floor of the building. Since then, visitors have reported the strong smell of cigar smoke and other ghostly occurrences. Don’t let that deter you from a visit, though, as Northrop Mall is home to more than 40 local vendors offering vintage treasures and rare collectibles in the heart of Southport.
Photo Courtesy of Old South Tour Company
Old South Tour Company
Those looking for a guided experience through the area’s haunted history will enjoy the tours with Old South Tour Company. Founded in 2004 by Katie Boyd, Old South Tour Company offers a spine-tingling yet family-friendly lantern-led Ghost Walk Tour that has captured the imagination of visitors since its inception. Katie, a Southport native with a deep passion for local lore and history, combined her theatrical background with her academic expertise in Southern Antebellum and North Carolina history to create this unique experience. The 60-minute tour delves into the chilling specters and haunting tales of Southport, blending historical facts with local folklore passed down through generations.
Whether you’re a believer in ghosts or just looking for a thrill, the Brunswick Islands offer plenty of haunted history and eerie tales to explore. Visit ncbrunswick.com to start planning your trip!