Deena West Budd
Have You Heard of The Laughing Ghost of Palmyra?
In the early part of the year 1900, Palmyra was plagued with an apparition that was witnessed by many of the town’s most distinguished citizens.
In early February of 1900, the city marshal of Palmyra, W.B. Markell, was forced to post a notice requesting that the reckless shooting that had “been indulged in, on account of the ghost scare in town” stop, or the offenders would be arrested...
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A Look at Folklore from the Past in Adams County
With a new year on the horizon, this is often the time when we take a look back at events and memories from past years. In the 1930s, renowned folklorist and Quincy native Harry Hyatt returned home from New York City to visit his sister, Minnie Hyatt Small...
Six Hannibal Sites You Had No Idea Were Haunted
Halloween is the time of year when those of us who enjoy being scared are happiest. We have many opportunities to be “frightened” all month long by visiting “haunted” houses, mazes and corn fields set up around the area.
There are, however, places all around Hannibal that are haunted all year long by apparitions and entities...
Does Mr. Cruikshank Still Roam the Rooms of Rockcliffe Mansion in Hannibal?
Most of us who have grown up in Hannibal have had an opportunity to tour our beloved historical Rockcliffe Mansion at least once over the years. Tourists to our hometown usually include a visit to Rockclilffe Mansion as well. I have talked with many people over the years who are adamant that the historical home is haunted.
The Haunted Villa Kathrine Castle of Quincy
Villa Kathrine, the lovely Moorish-like castle built on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River in Quincy, has such an interesting history that I am not surprised to find a few spirits involved in the legend as well.
The Spirit of “Shippa” in Hannibal
The Gallery Salon at 220 South 5th Street next to the public library in Hannibal is owned by Stacy Roland Roach. She recently met with me to share the story of a spirit called “Shippa” first encountered there that seemed to attach itself to her daughter for a while.
Hannibal’s Favorite Urban Legend: Screaming Johnny’s
Anyone growing up in Hannibal during the late 1950's, 60's and 70’s has heard the tale of Screaming Johnny’s. According to the local legend, a young boy suffered a tragic death in the church building long ago, and his screams can still be heard coming from inside the abandoned Bear Creek Baptist Church late at night.
Carpet Bagger Antiques in Hannibal – Home to Unique Items and Lingering Spirits from the Past!
Carpet Bagger Antiques at 1408 Market Street in Hannibal is a fascinating place to spend a couple of hours on an idle afternoon, perusing an assorted array of antique furniture and items used by citizens of Hannibal in past years…possibly by our very own grandparents or great-grandparents. People have always loved their “stuff.” Is it possible that some of us are even reluctant to leave behind cer
The Haunted Block of Broadway in Hannibal
The Mary Ann Sweet Shop, once located at 613 Broadway in Hannibal, is still talked about to this day by those who were fortunate enough to experience their bittersweet hot fudge sundaes and other ice cream delights. Unfortunately, I did not have this privilege as I was born just a little too late. As a paranormal researcher, though, I did have the opportunity to learn about some of the spooky acti
Java Jive – A Comfortable Gathering Place for Locals, Tourists…and Spirits
Java Jive in downtown Hannibal is a favorite gathering spot for locals to talk about topics ranging from politics to the paranormal. Tourists in the Main Street area are also drawn to the relaxing ambience and tasteful décor of the building. I first heard about a haunting at this location during the time that it was part of Haydon’s Hardware, and the ghost lingering at the location was known to be