The Exorcist House, Bel-Nor
In 1949, a spine-chilling event took place in Bel-Nor, Missouri. Jesuit priests gathered around a boy possessed by an evil spirit, inspiring the renowned book and movie, The Exorcist. This haunting incident is just one of many ghostly tales that make St. Louis a haven for supernatural enthusiasts. Join us as we unveil the eight most haunted properties in St. Louis and St. Charles, where the paranormal meets the tangible.
8. Sibley Hall Chapel, Lindenwood University, St. Charles
Caption: Sibley Hall Chapel, Lindenwood University, St. Charles
Lindenwood University's Sibley Hall Chapel, named after its founder Mary Sibley, is said to be visited by the spectral figure of Mary herself. Legend has it that she rises from her grave and walks to the chapel to play her favorite hymn, "Nearer My God to Thee." Though no reliable reports of full songs played on the organ exist, witnesses have encountered supernatural experiences, from glowing apparitions to self-playing organ pedals.
7. Locations on South Main Street, St. Charles
Caption: Locations on South Main Street, St Charles
Historic South Main Street in St. Charles is notorious for its hauntings. The former Little Hills Winery and Restaurant is said to be haunted by a quarrelsome couple who engage in rowdy fights in French, leaving chaos in their wake. The ghost of a little girl, who tragically perished in a fire, has also been seen at 517 South Main Street. And let's not forget the Lady in White, who roams the streets at night wearing her wedding dress.
6. Campbell House Museum, St. Louis
Caption: Campbell House Museum, St. Louis
The Campbell House Museum was once the luxurious abode of Robert Campbell, a successful businessman in the mid-1800s. Today, it houses his priceless possessions and a few paranormal surprises. Mysterious appearances of half-dollar coins in unexpected places, unexplained footsteps, and even a gentle nudge have perplexed visitors. Is Robert Campbell still attached to his cherished possessions, lingering in the afterlife?
5. Webster University's Loretto-Hilton Center, Webster Groves
Caption: Webster University's Loretto-Hilton Center, Webster Groves
The Loretto-Hilton Performing Arts Center at Webster University is home to not one, but two resident ghosts. The first is a restless soul who supposedly met his demise during the center's construction and is known to wander the lower levels after dark. The second apparition is David Hitzer, a former theater staff member, who continues to play tricks on late-night visitors, making his presence known on the catwalk.
4. Powell Symphony Hall, St. Louis
Caption: Powell Symphony Hall, St. Louis
Powell Symphony Hall has its own resident ghost, known as "George." Former music director Leonard Slatkin and his assistant experienced an eerie encounter when they found themselves locked in the auxiliary storage area, with the door mysteriously slamming shut. Numerous sightings of a man donning a white top hat, tails, and a mustache have been reported. Even ghost hunters recorded a chilling voice saying, "Richard."
3. Jefferson Barracks
Caption: Jefferson Barracks
Steeped in history, Jefferson Barracks has witnessed its fair share of paranormal activity. Built in 1863, it served as a National Cemetery and later became a Veterans Hospital. During a private Halloween party, a man dressed as an authentic Civil War officer caught the attention of a security officer. But only the party's host had seen him before. Soldiers stationed at Jefferson Barracks have encountered ghostly footsteps, flickering lights, and even a bloody sentry with a bullet hole in his head.
2. Lemp Mansion, St. Louis
Caption: Lemp Mansion, St. Louis
The Lemp Mansion, once the residence of William Lemp, Sr., the founder of the Lemp Brewery, now welcomes visitors as a restaurant and inn. The Lemp family met a tragic fate, with multiple suicides and a rumored illegitimate son. Today, guests and staff share tales of apparitions, mysterious sounds, vanishing tools, and levitating glasses. Even ghost hunters have tried summoning the infamous "Monkey-Face Boy," only to find toys moved outside their circle.
1. The Exorcist House, Bel-Nor
Caption: The Exorcist House, Bel-Nor
The terrifying exorcism that inspired The Exorcist took place in Bel-Nor. While the original hospital is gone, the house at 8435 Roanoke Drive remains with its troubling history. Although no haunting reports exist, renters, buyers, and real estate agents have had unsettling experiences within its walls. If you dare to visit, be prepared for an eerie atmosphere in this infamous house.
Embark on a spine-tingling journey through the haunted properties of St. Louis and St. Charles. These ghostly tales will leave you chilled and yearning for more eerie encounters. But remember, when it comes to the supernatural, skepticism and belief intertwine in a mysterious dance.