A mysterious figure once haunted Indian Creek, in Wise County, Virginia. The phantom stood over seven feet tall and haunted everyone who passed his grave. The phantom has long been forgotten, but his story remains as compelling as it was a century ago. Origins Union forces camped at theContinue Reading
The Powell River meanders through Wise and Lee Counties for around 80 miles, before it crosses into Tennessee. The headwaters of the Powell, in Wise County, are known for excellent fishing and swimming. Long ago, one legend often kept locals away. Eustace and Cornetta Adams lived near the “swimming hole”Continue Reading
Big Bull Tunnel is a utilitarian fixture in Southwest Virginia. It’s never been an actual attraction, simply another train tunnel in Wise County. It’s difficult to believe the arched throughway has such a dark and mysterious history. Construction was so problematic, and so many mishaps followed, that many suspected theContinue Reading
Col. John Murphy was a Civil War veteran when he became one of most notable hotel magnates in Richmond, Virginia. Few people knew the successful businessman was involved in a ghostly tale of his own. A well-dressed young man named Jones visited the Murphy Hotel in 1893. He had workedContinue Reading
The Bermuda Triangle has puzzled researchers for centuries. Many people are surprised to learn the Appalachians likewise have areas known for unexplained events, disappearances, and a plethora of oddities. The Black Mountain range, on the Virginia-Kentucky border, is one such area. No precise record for the Black Mountain events isContinue Reading
An old southwest Virginia mine operator visited a historic tavern in Richmond. He loved the hustle and modern life in the city. It was the 1890s and he was well into his golden years. He ordered a drink and soon curious regulars directed the conversation to life in the mines.Continue Reading
Dances were a common fixture of Appalachian life well into the early Dances were a common fixture of Appalachian life well into the early Twentieth Century. They were a form of entertainment, as well as a public forum to discuss community events and efforts. Everyone danced, feasted, and sang untilContinue Reading
Eugenia Murray was not a kind woman. She was not a good woman. She lived life away from others and wanted it that way. The reasons for Eugenia’s bitterness and hatred were never known. It could’ve been a spurned lover, an unfaithful spouse, or a bad childhood. Whatever the reason,Continue Reading
Burton Hensley was an out-of-state peddler when he arrived in the blossoming town of Bristol, Virginia. He was not a great success, but adequately provided for himself. The locals told Burton of a great mansion just about ten miles away. They suggested he travel there and speak with the landowner.Continue Reading
Amery Harlan hated his wife. He hated her nagging and her constant push for him to be something he wasn’t. He’d became enamored by Martha Mills and she had returned his favor. Amery didn’t want a divorce, though. He didn’t want to be bothered with the formalities and legal mumbo-jumbo.Continue Reading