Haunted Tennessee

The Great Smokey Mountains, the Grand Ol' Opry and the University of Tennessee are only a few of the things Tennessee is famous for. A southern state with lots of sunshine and natural landmarks makes for a great place to visit and an even better place to live. However, there are some much darker and sinister forces at work known the world over in this picturesque and historically prominent state.

Al Capone, the infamous Chicago mobster spent several years in Tennessee throughout his criminal career and many ghost hunters believe he is still there. Johnson City was the perfect place for Capone during prohibition days. Situated along his bootlegging route between Miami, Florida and Chicago, Capone would spend long weeks here with his mistress and two daughters. Visit The High Point, the mansion he kept his mistress in complete with underground tunnels and escape routes. Take the Appalachian Ghost Tour of all Capone's hot spots where tales of ghost sitings will leave you with goose bumps.

Another long standing Tennessee ghost story is that of the Bell Witch. Adams, Tennessee is home to the notoriously violent Bell Witch. In 1817, farmer John Bell had an altercation with his neighbor, Kate Batts, over the purchase of some slaves. After her death, the Bell family continually experienced episode after episode of violent paranormal activity in their home. Clergy and police were sent to investigate but no one could explain the screaming voice, scratches, cuts and bruises appearing on visitor and residents. Eventually the ghost of the Bell Witch appeared all over Adams, Tennessee proclaiming her hatred for the Bell family. The original homestead is long gone but the Belle Witch Cave is still in existence. Parapsychologists believe that her spirit is still inhabiting this cave and that it is a doorway into the spirit world. Tours are given and the history is retold.

Between Manchester and Tullahoma, Tennessee there was once an institute for orphans and widows called Ovoca. The Knights of Pythias bought the land for their own widows and orphans of men in their organization. The area has a secret history alone from ghost stories. Judy Garland, famed for her role as Dorthy in The Wizard of Oz was a frequent visitor. Her father was one of the founding members and used Ovoca as a health spa because of its scenery and near by pond. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency has released information proclaiming Ovoca to have been the secret destination of the capital building should nuclear war take place. Eventually, the orphanage came into existence and locals tell of a terrible fire that engulfed the building killing widows and orphans alike. Some escaped to the near by pond in hopes of extinguishing their burning flesh but only drowned in the depths. Some say that you can hear the cries of drowning orphans in the lake however the actual building remains were destroyed in the early 1980's. Ovoca road still exists today.

Tennessee has its dark and lured tales like most other states. A trip for the ultimate ghost hunter, to be sure.