The Ghostly Legends of Virginia’s Coastal Lighthouses

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The coast of Virginia is renowned for its picturesque lighthouses, each with its own storied history. However, beyond their architectural beauty and maritime significance, some of these lighthouses are shrouded in eerie tales of hauntings and paranormal activity. These ghostly legends have captivated the imaginations of locals and visitors alike, turning these historical beacons into hotspots for supernatural enthusiasts. Here, we delve into the haunting histories of some of Virginia’s most famous haunted lighthouses.

Old Cape Henry Lighthouse

Located at the entrance of the Chesapeake Bay, the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse was completed in 1792. As the first federal construction project under the newly formed United States government, it holds significant historical importance. However, it's not just its age that intrigues visitors. Numerous accounts tell of ghostly figures seen wandering around the lighthouse. One of the most popular stories involves a soldier from the War of 1812, who is said to still patrol the grounds, guarding the coast even in death. The lighthouse keeper's quarters are also believed to be haunted, with reports of strange noises and sudden drops in temperature​​.

New Point Comfort Lighthouse

Built in 1804, the New Point Comfort Lighthouse is one of the oldest in the United States. Situated on the Chesapeake Bay, it has guided countless ships to safety. Yet, it’s also known for its eerie ambiance and ghostly sightings. According to local lore, the lighthouse is haunted by the spirit of a former keeper who mysteriously disappeared. Visitors have reported seeing a shadowy figure in the lighthouse, especially on foggy nights. Some have even claimed to hear disembodied voices and footsteps echoing in the tower​​.

Assateague Lighthouse

The Assateague Lighthouse, located on Assateague Island, was constructed in 1833 and rebuilt in 1867. It's famous for its striking red-and-white stripes and its breathtaking views. However, it’s also infamous for its ghostly tales. One popular legend involves the spirit of a young girl who drowned nearby. Visitors often report seeing a ghostly figure of a girl in a white dress wandering the beach near the lighthouse. Some say she’s looking for her family, eternally lost at sea​​​​.

Old Point Comfort Lighthouse

Situated on Fort Monroe, the Old Point Comfort Lighthouse has been a sentinel for sailors since 1802. This lighthouse is steeped in history, having witnessed numerous battles and significant events. It's also one of Virginia’s most haunted locations. Soldiers from the Civil War era are said to haunt the area, with many sightings of spectral figures dressed in old military uniforms. The lighthouse itself is believed to be haunted by the ghost of a former keeper who died under mysterious circumstances. Reports of eerie lights and sounds are common among visitors and staff​​.

Jones Point Lighthouse

Jones Point Lighthouse, built in 1855, is located on the Potomac River in Alexandria. It’s a small, yet historically significant lighthouse that played a crucial role in navigation. Despite its quaint appearance, it has its share of ghostly tales. Legend has it that the lighthouse is haunted by the ghost of a former keeper’s wife who died tragically. Visitors have reported feeling a cold presence and hearing whispers when near the lighthouse. Some have even claimed to see a woman in period clothing looking out to the river, waiting for her husband’s return​​​​.

Paranormal Tourism and Preservation

The haunted reputations of these lighthouses have turned them into popular destinations for ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts. Ghost tours and nighttime visits are common, offering thrill-seekers a chance to experience the supernatural. These activities not only satisfy curiosity but also help in preserving these historic structures. The revenue generated from tourism aids in maintaining the lighthouses, ensuring that they continue to stand as beacons of history and mystery for future generations.

Virginia’s haunted lighthouses offer a unique blend of maritime history and ghostly lore. Each visit is a journey into the past, where the boundaries between the living and the dead blur, creating an experience that is both educational and spine-chilling.

Sources:

• Only in Your State
• Virginia.org
• Explore the South