North Carolina was founded over 230 years ago, so its storied history includes gruesome battles, widowed political figures, and even reports of the devil himself. As the state's capital, Raleigh is the setting of many of its haunted stories, including the five in this article. Would you dare to visit?
Mordecai House
Built in 1785 by Joel Lane, Mordecai House is older than the city of Raleigh. The two-story mansion was named for Moses Mordecai, who married Lane's daughter Margaret. One of their descendants, Mary Willis Mordecai Turk, lived in the home during the 1800s and loved socializing and playing piano, according to Visit Raleigh. Visitors report seeing the figure of a woman in a long black skirt and white blouse, rumored to be Turk, standing on the balcony during the night and roaming the halls. Others said they have heard the sound of a piano.
Birthplace of Andrew Johnson
Located on the grounds of Mordecai House is the birthplace of the 17th U.S. President Andrew Johnson. Visitors report seeing a light shining through the first floor window before immediately noticing another light on the second floor, too quick for someone to go from one floor to the other. However, no one is ever inside the small house when this happens.
North Carolina Executive Mansion
This ghostly tale can be traced back to a large, antique bed dating back to 1891 that belonged to Governor Daniel Fowle. He reportedly died in the bed, but it seems like his spirit lingered in the house. According to Walter Magazine, when Governor Bob Scott removed the bed, he heard a weird "screeching sound" and loud banging behind the walls. Thankfully it stopped once the bed was returned.
North Carolina State Capitol
Visit Raleigh describes the North Carolina State Capitol as the best preserved of any in the country, but that isn't its only claim to fame. Brad Kennedy, a guide at Tobacco Road Tours, calls this building "the most haunted capitol in America." A guard in the 1970s reported hearing unexplained noises like doors slamming, glass breaking, and scariest of all, an unseen woman screaming. Some believe this could be the work cavalrymen keeping a vigil over the grounds.
The Carolina Inn
According to Walter Magazine, The Carolina Inn, built in 1924 and located in Chapel Hill, is haunted by 20 ghosts. If you're looking to stay in a haunted room, the Inn offers a "Boo! Package," where guests can stay the night with resident ghost Dr. William Jacocks. No need to be alarmed as the doctor is described as a "friendly spirit" who enjoys practical jokes.
BONUS: Devil's Tramping Ground
The infamous Devil's Tramping Ground can be found a short ways from Raleigh near Bear Creek in Chatham County. Legend says the large circular area is devoid of trees and grass because the devil himself walks and dances around. According to Spectrum News, visitors to the area report seeing glowing red eyes in the circle.
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