Haunted Alabama: Ghostly Legends of Central Alabama

October in Alabama brings crisp nights, pumpkin patches, and—if you know where to look—a few things that go bump in the night. Central Alabama’s small towns and historic buildings are home to stories that mix folklore, history, and mystery. Whether you’re a believer or just a fan of good ghost stories, these haunted sites offer the perfect blend of local lore and Southern atmosphere.

The Sturdivant Hall Spirits – Selma

Built in 1853, Sturdivant Hall is one of Alabama’s most elegant antebellum mansions—and reportedly one of its most haunted. Locals say the spirit of former owner John Parkman lingers here after being wrongly imprisoned and dying in an escape attempt. Visitors often mention flickering lights, cold spots, and the feeling of being watched in the grand staircase.

• Visit: 713 Mabry Street, Selma

• Hours: Open for tours year-round

• Nearby: Walk through Old Live Oak Cemetery, another hauntingly beautiful spot.

Sloss Furnaces – Birmingham

A National Historic Landmark, Sloss Furnaces was once an industrial powerhouse—and now one of the most famous haunted sites in the South. Workers tell stories of a cruel foreman named “Slag” Wormwood, said to haunt the site after a fatal fall. Paranormal teams have documented strange sounds, shadows, and sudden temperature drops.

• Events: The annual Sloss Fright Furnace attraction runs through late October.

• Best for: Thrill-seekers and history buffs.

Gaineswood – Demopolis

Though technically on the western edge of Central Alabama, Gaineswood Mansion is worth the drive. Built by Nathan Bryan Whitfield, this Greek Revival masterpiece is rumored to host the ghost of Evelyn Carter, a family friend who died in the house. Her piano music supposedly still echoes through the halls at night.

• Tip: Visit during daylight hours for a guided tour rich in architecture and history.

• Nearby: Grab lunch at The Red Barn, a local classic.

The Red Lady of Huntingdon College – Montgomery

Every student in Montgomery knows the legend of the Red Lady, the restless spirit said to haunt Pratt Hall on Huntingdon College’s campus. According to the tale, a lonely student in the early 1900s took her life after being ostracized—now her ghost, dressed in crimson, appears on stormy nights.

• Campus tours: Available by appointment; ask about haunted history walks in October.

• Fun Fact: The story is featured in many Alabama folklore collections.

Old Cahawba Ghost Town – Dallas County

Known as Alabama’s first state capital, Old Cahawba is now an eerie archaeological site near Orrville. Crumbling foundations, mossy cemeteries, and silent riverbanks make it a perfect place for a fall visit. Ghost tours often recount sightings of Confederate soldiers, mysterious lights, and whispering winds that echo through the ruins.

• Visit: Cahaba Road, Orrville

• When to Go: The annual Haunted History Tour in late October is a must.

• Bring: A flashlight—and maybe a friend.

Why Alabama’s Ghost Stories Endure

These haunted sites reflect more than superstition—they tell stories about Alabama’s people, pain, and perseverance. From grand mansions to forgotten towns, each ghostly tale keeps local history alive. Whether you experience something supernatural or not, exploring these places connects you to the spirit of Central Alabama—literally and figuratively.

👻 Ready to plan your spooky weekend?
Grab your camera, your courage, and explore Alabama’s haunted side this fall.

👉 Visit InspiredAlabama.com for more ghostly road trip routes, fall festivals, and local travel guides.