When Creepy Dolls Invaded an Autuaga County Swamp

Photo byMarty Roney | Montgomery Advertiser

In November of 2014, the Autauga County Sheriff's Office discovered 21 dolls in a local swamp on Tuesday morning. Although its unclear why the dolls were placed there, officials assume the motive was more for mischief than malice. The dolls were set up on bamboo stakes in the Bear Creek Swamp close to County Road 3, situated between Prattville and Autaugaville. Most of the dolls were made out of porcelain and seemed to be antiques. Many had their faces and hair covered in a white substance that looked like spray paint.

"I noticed the dolls several weeks ago while driving through the swamp working on a stolen vehicle report," said Chief Deputy Joe Sedinger. "I just thought they were a Halloween prank, and really didn't give it much thought after that."

That was until social media blew up about the dolls, and the office got wind of the concerns.

"I admit it looked kind of creepy," Sedinger said with a laugh, as the dolls were being inventoried back at the courthouse. "You could see them from the road. We figured it was best to get them up."

The land where the dolls were placed is owned by a timber company.

"We tried to contact them," Sedinger said. "No one got back to us so we just decided to get the dolls. If the owner comes forward, we'll give them the dolls back."

Generations of teenagers have gone into Bear Creek Swamp as a coming-of-age tradition in search of strange and mysterious creatures. Residents of the area often report hearing loud booming noises coming from within the swamp's depths, which is shrouded in mist. That reputation is likely a reason why the courthouse was all lit up about the dolls.

"If somebody says they've seen a clown out there putting up dolls, I'm never going to Autaugaville again," said Jan Taylor