National Park After Dark 304: America’s Oldest Ghost Tour. Harper’s Ferry National Historical Park.
Jun 9, 2025
Discover the spine-chilling stories of Harper's Ferry, a town steeped in history and haunted legends. Dive into the captivating ghost tour that emerged from Shirley Dougherty's haunting experiences. Explore the intertwining of Civil War events, the abolitionist struggle, and personal anecdotes that make this ghostly narrative so compelling. Learn about Rachel Harper's specter and the hidden wealth she guards, along with the powerful legacy of Dangerfield Newby. Get ready for an eerie journey where history and the supernatural collide!
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Hauntings Reflect Deep History
- Harper's Ferry is considered West Virginia's most haunted town due to lingering spirits from its violent past.
- The paranormal activity is intertwined with the town's deep and painful history.
Dangerfield Newby's Tragic Ghost Story
- Dangerfield Newby joined John Brown's raid to free his enslaved wife and children but was brutally killed.
- Visitors sometimes see his ghost with a scarred neck wandering Hog Alley, where he died.
Ghost Tours Teach History
- Ghost tours serve as engaging ways to teach history that might otherwise be overlooked or forgotten.
- They blend entertainment with education to deepen historical understanding through storytelling.