Kansas is a state known for its vast plains, agricultural products, and historical landmarks. But, it also has a darker side that attracts thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts. Among the many haunted places in Kansas, there is one that stands out as the most haunted of them all: Atchison.
The History of Atchison
Atchison is a small town located in the northeastern corner of Kansas, along the Missouri River. It was founded in 1854 by pro-slavery settlers who named it after David Rice Atchison, a U.S. senator from Missouri and a prominent supporter of slavery. Atchison was a major hub for trade and transportation, especially during the Civil War and the railroad era. It was also the birthplace of Amelia Earhart, the famous aviator who disappeared over the Pacific Ocean in 1937.
However, Atchison also has a darker history that has left behind many restless spirits. The town was the site of several violent incidents, such as lynchings, murders, fires, and floods. Many of these tragedies occurred in the 19th and early 20th centuries, when Atchison was a booming and prosperous town. Some of the victims of these events are said to haunt the places where they met their untimely ends.
The Haunted Places in Atchison
Atchison is home to many haunted places, ranging from historic buildings, to cemeteries, to natural landmarks. Some of the most notorious haunted places in Atchison are:
The Sallie House: This is a 20th-century house that used to belong to a doctor who performed surgeries in his basement. According to legend, a young girl named Sallie died on his operating table after he cut her open without anesthesia. Her ghost is said to haunt the house, along with other spirits, and is known for being violent and malicious. The house has been featured on many ghost hunting shows and is open for tours and overnight stays.
Molly’s Hollow: This is a park that was once a hollow where a large tree stood. The legend says that Molly was a black girl who was dating a white boy, but their relationship was not accepted by the racist locals. One night, they hanged Molly from the tree and killed her. Her ghost is said to still hang from the tree, which was filled in by a local foundry in the 1980s. People who visit the park claim to hear her screams and see her apparition.
The Gargoyle House: This is a Victorian mansion that was built in 1884 by a wealthy businessman named B.P. Waggener. The house is adorned with many gargoyles and other grotesque figures, which give it a sinister appearance. The house is said to be haunted by the spirits of Waggener and his family, who died under mysterious circumstances. The house is also rumored to have secret passages and hidden rooms, where dark rituals and murders took place.
The McInteer Villa: This is another Victorian mansion that was built in 1889 by a prominent family named McInteer. The house is said to be haunted by the ghosts of the McInteer family, who lived there until 1965. The most active spirit is said to be that of Sarah McInteer, who died in the house in 1935. She is known for playing pranks, moving objects, and making noises. The house is open for tours and overnight stays.
The Conclusion
Atchison is a town that has a rich and fascinating history, but also a dark and haunted one. It is a place that attracts many visitors who are curious about the paranormal and the supernatural. Atchison is not for the faint of heart, but for those who are brave enough to explore its secrets, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Atchison is truly the most haunted place in Kansas.