WILL COUNTY GHOST HUNTERS SOCIETY

Abingdon- Abingdon Middle School-The story that is told about this school is that a teacher was not watching a child close enough and he rode his tricycle down a flight of stairs to his death.  The teacher could not live with this and hung herself at the top of the stairs. There have been reports of seeing the blood stains on the walls and the stairs where this took place.  Many others have reported hearing the tricycle being rode down the stairs and the screams of the teacher.  Both the little boy and his teacher have been seen in the halls.

Algonquin - Algonquin Cemetery - at Rt.31 and Cary/Algonquin Rd. There are two sides to this cemetery, one being the "good spirits" and the other side is where the "bad spirits" are located.  The side that is on the side where Rt. 31 is the the better of the two sides.  The other side that is closer to Cary/Algonquin is where many of the "bad spirits" are located.  On this side, there is a murderer that is bound forever to his grave by a high priestess.  If you get close to his grave you will will be at the mercy of his anger. Toward the back of the cemetery you will find the grave of a rapist that is bound forever to his grave. If you stand in one spot for too long you can hear him running back and forth in the woods. A little boy is said to watch you and tries to protect you from harm.  There are other "bad spirits" that have been reported on this side.  Your best is to only go where you have to.

Algonquin- Square Barn Road-When driving late on this road the ghosts of 2 kids have been reported to run in front of cars. They are running from two men and a women that are believed to have killed them.

Allerton Park- Allerton Mansion-The ghost of a lady, believed to be a frequent guest of Mr. Robert Allerton has been seen here many times. Her name is unknown, but she is referred to as the "Lady in White".  She has been seen in "her room" putting on her gloves and hat, as well as by the pond in the back of the mansion.  She has been heard pacing the hall in front of "her room" and coming down the stairs. A strange feeling overcomes you when you visit this home.

Alsip- Cemetery(s )-The city of Alsip was once a huge brickyard for the city of Chicago, as well as a planned cemetery.  The cemetery was suppose to be a really large one for the city of Chicago, and was suppose to be called "The City of Chicago Cemetery". The plan was no carried out.  However, the city of Alsip does have Illinois' largest cemetery count.  Many of the older homes in the city have pre-dug graves.  There has been numerous reports of ghosts, disembodied voices, poltergeist activity, and several other paranormal events.

Altamont-Devil's Peak-This rock formation is shape like the devil's horns. It is said that the devil himself roams the valley.

Alton-Lovejoy Monument Cemetery-When entering this cemetery as "strange feeling" overcomes you.  There have numerous cold spots felt here and several disembodied voices have been heard. The ghost of Elijah P. Lovejoy has been seen walking around his monument.  The ghost of a little girl who died suddenly from a mysterious illness has been seen walking around the cemetery. She seems to be almost trying to play hide and seek, because  she darts from behind gravestone to gravestone.

Alton-Lovejoy School-The school is believed was built partially on an Indian burial ground and has been the host of numerous paranormal events. There have been several reports of shadowy figures, doors opening and closing on their own, lights going on and off, the smells of strong perfumes, and objects being moved by unseen hands.

Alton-McPike Mansion-This is one of the homes you see and just say "It's haunted". There have been several paranormal events that have taken place here. There have been apparitions seen, strong odors, presences felt, and strange electrical occurances. The house has been condemned by the city of Alton, therefor no one is allowed to go in. The home is undergoing restoration by the owners. The owners do have an annual Halloween bonfire outside the home. For more information about McPike Mansion, please visit the  McPike Website

Alton-Mineral Springs Hotel-Currently Mineral Springs Mall.  There are five known ghosts. A woman known as the "Jasmine Lady" due to her unique scent of jasmine perfume, which can still be smelled on occasion.  She was having an affair and her husband confronted her, chased her out of her room to the main staircase, where she fell to her death.  He returned to the room and hung himself.  Another ghost dwells in the old hotel bar area, which is now the cafe.  He was an artist that lived in the hotel and frequented the bar.  His mural of Alton can still be seen there today.  Both these areas can be seen when visiting the mall.  The other two ghosts reside mainly in the pool, which can only be seen on guided tours.  A spirit known as "George" was reputed to have been hit by his wife with her shoe for flirting with other women.  He then fell and struck his head and drowned in the pool.  The final spirit is that of a young girl referred to as "Cassandra."  She also fell, hit her head and drowned in the pool.

Alton-St. Anthony’s Hospital-As any hospital, this one is haunted by several ghosts. Some of the more reported ghost are that of a little boy on the third floor in the administration area. Another ghost has been seen on the second floor near the endoscopes department.  The ghost of a nun has been reported on the first floor in the sterile processing department.

Amboy-Franklin Blacktop-There is a home here that is catty-corner from the 4-H Center, it has been reported that sometime in the late 1800's a man was murdered in the home and buried 500 feet from the home's upstairs bathroom window. When you enter the upstairs master bedroom, no matter the time of year, it is always warm.  The room is commonly referred to as the "warm room". It has also been reported that if you are outside the home looking into the first floor windows, you will see a glowing ball of light moving from room to room.

Anna-Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center- There have been many, many reports of Choate being haunted, but most of the paranormal activity happens under Choate in the tunnels of the building. The old buildings have burned down and all that remains is the original basements which are now the tunnels that run under Choate and some even run out of Choate. Numerous reports of people seeing apparitions standing in the windows and people running.  People have reported seeing faces in the buildings, the uppers and the lowers of the cottages are suppose to be haunted by the previous nurses and residents. One report says that a resident was attached by a "devil dog", but when the lights where turned on there was no dog in the room...just scratches all over the resident's body.

Antioch-Antioch Movie Theatre-This old theater was built in the 1940's and was used to hold plays. There has been numerous stories about this theater. One story says that a young woman hung herself from the balcony, and that Al Capone has tunnels dug underneath the theater leading towards the Fox River. Employees have reported that they get an uneasy feeling like someone is in the room with them, but they are alone.  Numerous noises have been heard after hours like strange noises, banging, footsteps and someone walking up the stairs.

Arcola-The depot near the rail road tracks-Reports say that there is a ghost around walking holding a lantern and swinging it back and forth.

Ashley-Abandoned candy factory-The ghost of a woman that was killed there during a normal work day has been reportedly seen and heard here.  The roof of the building has clasped and now covers the spot where the woman was killed.  The woman has been seen standing in the doorway and in the windows looking out.  On some nights people have heard screaming and crying coming from inside the factory.

Ashmore-Saint Omer Cemetery-There is a large gravestone located in the cemetery with a crystal ball. The grave dates back to the 1800s, and is said to be that of a witch. People have reported seeing a glow coming from the stone on several occasion. Often when people take photographs at this site, they do not turn out, their cameras do not function correctly, or the batteries are drained.

Ashmore-Ashmore Estates-Ashmore estates is a former insane asylum. It was closed down when there was no longer enough patients, and the government stopped the funding. People have reported hearing disembodied voices, moans, crying,  loud banging, and footsteps. There has been numerous apparition seen here as well. Numerous cold spots have also been felt here.

Aurora-Devil's Cave-The true story of an Indian Brave that was banished from his tribe for stealing. He tried to get his revenge on the tribe by covering himself with a blanket and glowing fungus. He would try to scare his tribe by acting like a ghost on dark nights.  One day the tribe found his footprints.  They waited for him to return and chased him into devil's cave.  There they smoked him out.  He ran out and jumped into the river, unable to swim he drown.  This ghost is seen to this day in and around devil's cave.  The cave is easily accessible from the trail at the Red Oaks Nature Center.

Aurora-Leland Tower Hotel-Standing at 21 stories tall, this is the tallest building in Aurora.  There have been numberous suicides by guests that have jumped from the upper floors into the Fox River. At night there has been reports of horrible smells coming from the river banks and moaning from the elevators.

Aurora-Mount Olivet Cemetery-There have been reports of two women in 1950's fashion standing near a 1958 Lincoln Continental in the cemetery. They fade and fanish into thin air.

Aurora-Mystery Rock-The legend says that soliders buried their tresures under this rock just before they were massacred by the Indians. The rock has been relocated from the original spot to the present location near the Tanner house.

Barrington-White Cemetery-The cemetery is located just east of Old Barrington Road on Cuba Road. White spirit orbs have been seen hovering near the gates and over the road surface. On a few occasions the orbs seem to follow the car and then suddenly disappear. There have also been reports of people seeing a phantom car driving past the cemetery and disppearing into thin air.

Barrington-Cuba Road-On nights when there is a full moon it is said if you turn off your headlights a house will appear.  Legends say that anyone that enters the house will remain in the house forever.

Barrington-The haunted Silo-The legend says that a man living on a farm house on Factory Shoe Road went crazy, because he thought his wife was cheating on him. He killed his wife and kids, then committed suicide. About 20 yards from where the man buried his family is a five point star.  The star has a dead tree at each of the five points. At night you can hear strange noises and see something moving around the house. There have also been numerous cold spots felt, even on hot summer days.

Bartlett-Munger Road-If you park your car on or near the railroad tracks and put the car in neutral, the car will be pushed across the tracks by the ghosts of small children that were killed in an accident on those vary tracks. The road is not going downhill, it appears to actually go uphill.  Many people have put baby powder on the bumper and trunks of their cars prior to putting the car in neutral. After being pushed across the tracks, finger and hand prints appear.

Bartonville-State Hospital-There have been many paranormal events that have taken place here.  Disembodied voices and strange noises have been heard, ghost lights and apparitions have been seen. It is believed that the former residents of the hospital are the ones that are doing the hauntings.

Batavia-The Batavia Inn-One of the Inn's female guests reported that she could feel fingers running through her hair and felt several cold spots even though it was in the middle of summer. She reportedly yelled out something to the affect of, "I know there's a ghost here and I am going to take your picture." She then took the picture and reported that there was a large black spot that looked like it had hundreds of screaming faces in it.

Belleville-Belleville West-In the auditorium of the old Belleville West campus, now the Lindenwood University campus, is reportedly haunted by a former teacher that died prior to the production of her play. The teacher had a classroom located right behind the stage. She became ill and was not able to teach any longer, but she loved the theater so much she would come a day or two before the day of the production to check on the children.  She passed away, but has still visit the auditorium.  A day or two before production is when the spirit of the teacher is most active.  Her presence can usually be known by a strange odor.  It is reported that after practices she moves props around. 

Belleville-Lincoln Theatre-The theater is located on East Main street, just a couple of blocks from the square. Several ghosts are believed to haunt this location. One is in the projection booth, another on the stage in the main theater, and one is in the basement. Objects have been moved by unseen hands, apparitions have also been seen in several different spots in the theater.

Belleville-The Old Meyer House-This is an old brick house that dates back to the mid 1800's. It was built by a German coal miner named Jacob Meyer. On June 26, 1923, Jacob was in poor health and killed himself in the parlor of the house. His ghost returned to haunt the home. In 1956 Judy and Dollie Walta opened a music school in the house. They did not live there, so the house was empty on weekends and in the evening. On August 26, 1962 a sailor friend of the Walta sisters was killed in an accident at sea. Within a few days the sisters started hearing the back door open and close by itself, followed by the soft footsteps of the sailor walking down the hallway to his favorite chair. This continued for months, then the much heavier footsteps of Jacob Meyer were heard walking into the parlor. The faint outline of a large man dressed in grey was seen standing in the middle of the parlor room on several occasions. There was also several occasions when chairs, umbrellas, and other items where moved by unseen hands. Although the amount of activity has greatly decreased, there are still reports of smelling cigar smoke, movement of objects, and sometimes the muffled sound of a gunshot coming from the parlor room. The house is located on Main Street, near the corner of 17th Street in Belleville, IL 62223.

Belleville-Pasta House-Many years ago when it was a hotel a family was killed, and they are still there to this day haunting the location. Late at night the screams of a woman and small child can be heard.

Belvedere-Blood's Point Cemetery-Many people have reported seeing white orbs and ectoplasmic mist manifesting into human forms. Electrical malfunctions are common here as well, flashlights and cameras that function normally elsewhere turn off or do not work at all in the cemetery. Several sounds have been reported as well, including peculiar cries, whistles, whispers, and a strange growling sound from the area near the shed.

Bishop Township-Kings Cemetery-This cemetery is in the middle of nowhere, no houses or businesses, nothing but trees. Sightings of orbs and spirit mists have been reported. And the shadows of people seem to move on their own, even when the person is not moving.

Bloomington-Illinois Weslyan University The International House-This huge mansion size on the Illinois Weslyan Campus in Bloomington,Illinois is the host to several ghosts. The house was originally a private residence and then converted into dormitories. There is an old elevator that is no longer in service and has been sealed up. Apparently, a young man got stuck in the elevator, the elevator then fell taking the young man to his death. People have reported hearing the elevator squealing and the young man screaming. The third floor of this house is host to the ghost of a young woman. The woman was the niece of the then President of the University.  She reportedly died in the house and still wanders the halls. People on the third floor have reported hearing the laugh of the young woman.

Bloomington-Old Federal Prison on Market-People have reported seeing the ghost of a young boy looking out the attic window. The boy was reportedly hatched to death.

Bloomington-The old Mennonite Hospital (now Eureka)-On the third floor at the end of the hall is a room that is the center of paranormal events. There was a lady that passed away after a very long and painful death from cancer. After her death, the call light would go on and off, and strange noises where heard coming out of her room. There was also a strong smell of "death" in the room, no matter how hard they tried to remove the smell, they could not. After all of this, the room was not to be used again.

Buckner-Harrison Cemetery-Legends say that there are the ghosts of a man and a woman that guard the cemetery. If you enter the cemetery after dark you can see them.  The man usually shows up as an orange glowing ball of light in the field beside the cemetery.  The woman usually appears as a white glowing ball of light near the pine trees at the far corner of the cemetery. People have reported that midnight you can hear a piano being played in this corner.

Bullvalley-The House With No Corners-This house was built in the 1800's. The reason for the downstairs and the outer perimeter not having corners was so ghosts and spirits would have no place to hide. The family that lived there reportedly all died upstairs. Late at night, people have seen figures moving around upstairs. The faint sounds of foots steps can also be heard. On the second floor of the house is a door to nowhere. It does not lead to a stairway or deck. The house has now been remodeled and turned into a police station.

Carpentersville-Instant Replay Sports Bar- (Formerly Big Boy's Restaurant) The building is haunted by several different spirits. Several unusual things have been reported by employees and patrons. This location has been sold and changed names numerous times in the past several years.  Located at Route 25 and Lake Marions Road

Centralia-Centralia Cemetery-The story goes Annie ( Harriet Anne Marshall) was the daughter of a wealthy doctor. While on a trip with her family she became gravely ill and died of diphtheria. Anne was a very accomplished violinist. Her parents had a statue made of her holding her beloved violin. The statue was based on a painting that was done of her in the family home. . Annie’s statue sits in a circle drive of Elmwood and watches the east side of town. On chilly fall nights around September & October around the time she died you can here the sweet whispers of the violin in the night. It's bitter sweet cause you know she does not want to hurt you she just wants someone to remember her music.  The family has tried to maintain the statue, but it has been vandalized over the years. The violin bow has been broken off.

Centralia-Foundation Park-Stover's Hill is a popular spot for children to go sled riding in the winter.  At the bottom of the hill is a merry-go-round, there are reports of people taking pictures here and getting images of people that were not there when the picture was taken.

Champaign-YMCA-This YMCA is located on Church Street and is home to many paranormal events.  Reports have said that lights turn on and off by themselves, doors open and close, cold spots are felt, objects move by themselves, strange noises have been heard, and shadows have been seen moving.

Champaign-Urbana-The University of Illinois-The English Building-This building was formerly a woman dormitory and the sight of a young woman's suicide. The ghost of this young girl has been seen and heard around this building.

Charleston-Eastern Illinois University- Pemberton Hall-The ghost of a former counselor named Mary is said to haunt this building. Mary was bludgeoned to death by a crazed custodian back in the 1920's on the third floor of this building. Since then, she haunts the Pemberton Hall an all female dormitory. She has been known to turn TVs, radios, and lights on and off, as well as checking to make sure the doors are all closed and locked. Her ghost has been seen on numerous occasions. Take I-57 to Highway 16 east.  Eastern Illinois University, Charleston,IL 61920 Phone: (217)581-2223

Cherry Valley-Blood point Road-Blood Point Road intersects with Sweeney road and there is a spot to pull over near a stone wall. On the other side of the road is a field that has paths that lead into a wooded area. In this field there has been many sighting of bright red orbs. Once in the woods there is the foundation of a church. People have reported that a farmer with a shotgun chases people out of the woods. Once out of the woods, the farmer disappears. At the end of Sweeney road is a stop sign it turns into Pool Road, it is here that a phantom big rig appears out of no where and almost hits you head on.  Other reports say that they have been chased by a ghost until they left this area.

 Chicago-Archer Woods Cemetery-The gates on this cemetery are never closed, so it allows easy entery. As you walk through the cemetery the path will lead you in a circle, as you are leaving the cemetery it is said that a white filmy form of a woman is seen floating amount the trees near the gates.  The woman is called the sobbing woman, because she is often heard sobbing and wailing.  The woman is only seen when leaving the cemetery, never when entering.

Chicago-Beverly Unitarian Church "Irish Castle"-The building is abandoned, however the ghost of a young woman in a long white dress has been seen in the living room and descending the stairs.  People on the outside have seen candle light moving around the building, often passing from window to window. The house was built in 1886 by Robert Givens, who modeled it after an Irish Castle. Located at 103rd and Longwood Drive at 10244 South Longwood Drive, Chicago,IL 60643

Chicago-Biograph Theater-The ghost of a man has been seen running down the alley next to the theater. It is reportedly the ghost of John Dillinger, who was killed in the hail of police gunfire here in 1934. Police reported the man to be the infamous John Dillinger; however some claim that it was a small-time hood named Jimmy Lawrence. The FBI explained the discrepancies in the appearance by saying that Dillinger had undergone extensive plastic surgery. The Biograph Theater is now abandoned and located on the north-side of Chicago on Clark Street.

Chicago-The Congress Hotel-This is a pretty old hotel and has been the site of several paranormal events. Guests and employees report that they feel like they are being watched. Cold spots have been felt in several places, doors open and close, TV's go on and off in the middle of the night, and voices are heard when no one is around.

Chicago-Fort Dearborn-During road construction near the site of the original Fort Dearborn, workers unearthed the bodies of some of the early settlers from the early 1800's.  Since then, the ghosts of the settlers have been seen and heard floating over the field. Currently a vacant field at 16th Street and Indiana Avenue.

Chicago-Garet Durson Mental Hospital-Numerous problems with electronic devices have been reported here, people have heard disembodied voices and screams, and a ghost of a woman has been seem running down the stairs wearing a white robe.

Chicago-The Givins Castle-In the southside neighborhood of Beverly, a man from Ireland built a "castle" he names Givins Castle for his wife who still resided in Ireland. Before it was completed, she died. People have reported seeing her walking up the hill that leads to Castle Givins.

Chicago-Graceland Cemetery-This cemetery has several spirits that haunt it, but the most famous is the story of Inez Clark. In 1880 Inez was just shy of her seventh birthday, when she was struck by lightening at a family picnic and killed. Her parents were extremely distraught over the loss, and they had a life-size statue of her erected at her grave site. There is a glass enclosure over the statue to protect it from the elements. On rainy nights, when a storm is rolling in, the statue reportedly disappears from the glass enclosure, and a young girl is seen roaming the cemetery. The next morning the statue is back in the glass case. Another eerie statue marks the grave of Dexter Graves, who died in 1844 at the age of fifty-five. The statues is that of a menacing hooded figure, and those who dare look into it's face are given a taste of what is to come. Graceland's largest and most lavish monument is a thirty-foot-long, twelve-foot-high tomb of Ludwig Wolff. The area around this tomb is the stomping ground of a green-eyed ghoul who is said to howl at full moons. Located at the corner of Irving Park Road and Clark Street, the address is  4001 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL  60613.  Phone: (312)525-1105

Chicago-Harpo Studios-The building was the Second Regiment Illinois National Guard Armory and used as a temporary morgue for the victims of the Eastland disaster. The building is now home to the Oprah Winfrey show. There have been reports of doors opening and closing, electrical disturbances, and the smell of psychic perfumes. People have heard muffled voices, whispers, laughter and footsteps, and the what sounds like marching feet. There has been strange lights seen, as well as apparitions. A woman dubbed the "Grey Lady", has been seen by security guards on the video monitors. The woman is dressed in a long flowing vintage dress, and wearing a fancy large rimmed hat. She does not walk, she is described as floats. The guards immediately run to the location that she is seen, but no one is ever found. In 1996 Oprah herself, acknowledged the history of the building and the fact that it is haunted. She said that she does not exactly want to be there after dark.  Harpo Studios is located at 1058 West Washington Boulevard. Phone (312)591-9222

Chicago-Hephzibah Children's Home-Employees and visitors have reported a variety of paranormal events, including poltergeist activity taking place at this children's home. Most of the paranormal activity that occurs here is linked to an emotionally troubled boy, who is believed to have unknowingly released some sort of psychokinetic energy. The ghost of a little boy has been seen, objects have been moved by unseen hands, and children crying and laughing has also been reported here. Located at 946 North Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60614.

Chicago-Holy Family Church-The unidentified apparition of a woman dressed in white has been seen here by parishioners and clergy at this Protestant church. Located at 1019 South May Street, Chicago,IL 60607 Phone:(312)-243-7207 

Chicago-House of Blues-The ghost of a little girl has been seen and heard here. The girl is believed to died from an illness that is unknown. She has been seen playing is her room, and the imprint of a small child has been seen on the bed sheets. A young boy went to visit his mother and reportedly the the ghost of the little girl started to play with his toys. The girl asked him, "do you want to play with me?"  The little boy screamed and ran to his mother.

Chicago-Hubbard High School-In the basement of the school people have reported hearing a teenage girl crying and sometimes screaming for help.

Chicago-Jane Addams Hull House-This is a landmark structure, that was constructed in 1856 by Charles Hull is the alleged refuge of the "devil baby."  The child was born to a devout Italian woman and her atheist husband. The child was said to have hooves and cloven feet, pointed ears, horns, scale covered skin, and a long tail. In 1913, the father brought the child to the Hull House, a welfare organization that was run by Jane Addams, and asked them to take care of the "devil child."  The rumors quickly spread and in the matter of six weeks hundreds of people traveled to the Hull House to see the child.  Addams denied the existence of such a child, but some believe that she was just trying to protect the child. To this day, people report seeing the creature looking out the upstairs-left attic window and the manifestations of luminous ectoplasm that ascend the staircase. Several people have photographed the ectoplasmic mist. Also photographed were four monk-like figures that appeared on the staircase to the second floor. The Hull House has been turned into a museum. It is located at the corner of Halsted Street and Polk Street. The address is 800 South Halsted Street, Chicago,IL 60607 Phone: (312)413-5353

Chicago-Jewish Waldheim Cemetery-The ghost of an unknown young 1920's flapper girl has been seen near this cemetery. She has been seen at the gates and Des Plaines Avenue, between the Melody Mill and the cemetery. There were numerous sightings of her in 1933 and 1973. Located in North Riverside,IL 60546  Phone:(708)366-4100

Chicago-John Hancock High School- Formerly Lourdes High School is located at 4034 West 56th Street, Chicago, IL 60629. There have been reports by students and staff of sounds of music and unexplainable sounds of footsteps. It is believed that several nuns are the ones who are haunting the school.

Chicago-Kelvyn Park Highschool-A few years back 3 teachers mysterious died, but no explanation was given to the students of how or why the deaths occurred. There has been several reports of disembodied voices, footsteps, and cold spots.

Chicago-Lourdes High School-Students and staff at this Catholic school have reported hearing disembodied footsteps and untraceable music that echoes through the halls. Located at 4034 West 56th Street, Chicago,IL 60629 Phone:(312)581-2555

Chicago-Loyola University Chicago-The legend says that a Jesuit priest and a nun had affair. The nun found out the she was pregnant, and she asked the priest to runaway with her, so they could raise their child together.  He refused to do it. The nun went to the 13th floor of the building and hung herself.  The priest later found her and jumped out the window to his death. Even when the floor has been vacant, but there is a light on in the room where the nun killed herself. People have also reported seeing the nun and priest walking together hand-in-hand.

Chicago-Maryville Center For Medically Complex Children-Located at Oak Park Rd. and Forest Preserve Rd. (Montrose ave.) in Chicago, you must park about a mile away and make the trip to the entrance on foot. The Maryville Center For Medically Complex children was an institute for drug addicted, handicapped, insane, and foster children. It was mysteriously shut down, and boarded up for reason related to asbestos. Once inside you must pass numerous buildings marked: A, B, C, etc. Follow the main concrete path and follow it off to the left until you see a run down playground once used by the children who lived at the center. Go past the swing set and the 2nd slide you see and go between the two building before you. All but one of the windows around you will be boarded up. The one window that is not boarded up leads into the indoor pool. A main hallway can be reached through a room called the 'pool office'. From there you will find numerous stairwells that provide access to about 75% of the entire center. There are many reports of people hearing the sounds of children laughing, and in some instances even seeing people in white robes walking around. Lots of paranormal activity takes place in this abandoned asylum.

Chicago-Mount Carmel-The ghost of Julia Buccola Petts is said to wander the cemetery grounds. One story says that a young bot was accidentally left behind in the cemetery, when the family returned.. they saw a lady in a white gown walking hand-in-hand with the boy. When they got closer the lady disappeared into thin air.

Chicago-O'Hare Airport-An American Airlines flight crashed into an airfield near the airport. The crash ignited a huge fireball that killed all the passengers and crew aboard. The ghosts of passengers and crew have been seen in the airport terminal they departed from on that fateful day.

Chicago-Options Exchange Building-In 1979 two traders had a disagreement over a trade. They decided to settle the matter outside by the horse statue/fountain. One of the men was badly hurt and died before paramedics could help him. People have reported hearing arguing when no one else is around.

Chicago-Red Lion Pub-In 1882 John Cordwell turned this three story brick building into an English pub. As part of the renovation Cordwell added a of stain glass window over the stairway and also added a plaque in memory of his father.  His father was buried in England without a headstone. Shortly after, people would get extremely dizzy when passing the window. John also felt his father's presence on the second floor. The strong smell of lavender is present when the spirit of a twenty year old retard girl who died in the building is present. The upstairs ladies restroom is haunted by a strong presence that seems to trap women inside. Multiple appariations have been seen including the apparition of a man that walks through the downstair bar and up the stairs.  The appariation of a man dresses like cowboy has been seen in the upstairs bar. A blonde hair man, a woman wearing 1920's garb, and a man with a beard and wearing a black hat are also a few of the other spirits that haunt this building. People have heard disembodied voices,strange noises and footsteps, and doors will be locked  by  unseen hands. Located right across the street from the Biograph Theater the address is 2446 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago,IL 60614 Phone:(312)-348-2695

Chicago-Robinson Woods-Strange faces have been seen scaring out of the foliage, and the sounds of  wood being chopped and the sounds of Native American Tom Toms have been heard and recorded. People have reported seeing red and white orbs, black shadows, and the smell of lavender and violets have been smelled at times. Passing motorists have reported seeing ghost lights moving about the brush. The paranormal activity has been linked to the nearby graves of an anglicized Indian family. A large granite boulder marks the graves of the Alexander Robinson family. The Robinson family was granted the land in 1829 in gratitude for saving a white family during the Fort Dearborn massacre. Legend says the family was murdered by jealous tribe members.  Most of the vocal phenomena has been recorded on the left side of the monument. Located at  East River Road and Lawrence Avenue near O'Hara Airport west of Norridge.

Chicago-S-M-C Cartage Company-Located at 2122 North Clark Street. On Valentine's Day 1929, Al Capone sent his men to send a message to Bugs Moran at one of his buildings (S-M-C Cartage Company). Seven men were lined up against a brick wall and were gunned down with machine gun fire. After hearing the news, Bugs said, "Only Capone kills people like that!" In 1972 the building was bought and turned into a 1920's themed club.  The brick wall wear the massacre took place and factory have been torn down. Supposedly, before the wall was torn down, seven shadowy figures were seen lined up against the wall and the viewer would be filled with fear. The location is now a parking lot. People have reported to still hear gunfire and screams from this area.

Chicago-St. Andrews Pub-Employee and patrons have reported being reported encountering unusual cold spots and being touched by unseen hands. The owner Jane McDougall, glasses, ashtrays, and other object have been known to move by themselves. Many believe the activity is caused by the former owner Frank Giff, who died when he fell off a bar stool. Located at 5938 North Broadway, Chicago,IL 60660 Phone:312-784-5540

Chicago-St. George Orthodox Church-On April 22, 1994 an icon of the Virgin Mary located on a panel behind the alter began weeping. Two streams of moisture began to stream out of each eye. Eight bishops witness this and declared it a miracle. Many thousands of people have come to the church to view this famous icon. Located at 1220 South 60th Court, Chicago,IL. 60646 Phone:(708)656-2927

Chicago-St. Turibius Church-The ghost of a former priest Father Lechert can be seen wandering the church. Near the alter and tabernacle a black shadow has been seen lurking around. There have been reports of the organ playing late at night when no one is in the church. Located at the corner of 56th Street and Karlow Avenue, Chicago, IL 60646  Phone: 312-851-2730

Chicago-That Steak Joynt-Customers and employees have reported hearing strange footsteps, seeing moving apparitions, and the feeling of being touched by unseen hands. Located at 1610 North Wells, Chicago, IL 60614.  Phone:(312)-943-5091

Chicago-Union League Boys and Girls Club-This building was built in the 1800's originally a gentlemen's club named The Chopin Club The club had one of the worst reputations for rowdiness on the West side. The police had investigated seven murders in or around the Chopin Club, the place had come to be known locally as the Blood Bucket. There has been the apparition of a small boy seen peaking around the corner. There has also been shadowy images seen in the pool area, and the gym/stage area. Several people have also claimed to have been touched by unseen hands. A presence can been felt throughout this massive 4 story building. Located at 2157 W 19th Street,Chicago,IL 60608 Phone:(312)829-6840

Chicago-Victorian House Antiques-This home was built in 1879. A woman was murdered in this home in the 1880's, and four people later died in a fire in the attic rooms. People who have visited the attic area have reported felling moving cold spots, and doors opening and closing by themselves. Located at 806 West Belmont, Chicago, IL 60657 Phone:(312)-348-8561

Chicago-Water Tower-The ghostly figure of a man hanging from a rope has been in the window's of Water Tower on several occasions. It is believed that the man was hanged from the garnished structure in the 1880's. Reports of strange lights at the top of the tower have been reported, this is strange because there are no lights near these windows. This is one of the few buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire in October 1871. The building marks the area of Chicago known as Streeterville, named for the explorer Captain John Streeter. Streeter laid claim to this land, but it was later taken from him by the city. He then cursed the land.  Located on the Corner of Michigan Avenue and Chicago Avenue.

Chicago-Webster's Wine Bar-The apparition of a man has been seen at the bar on the second floor.

Christian-Palmer/Anderson Cemetery-There are a lot of orbs that are seen here.  ON certain nights dark shadows with red eyes are also seen.  Not too far away is a stone cabin that a ghost of a man has been seen.

Cicero-Chodl Auditorium-A former teacher/director is the spirit that is believed to haunt this location. During opening night at a production of West Side Story, he suffered a massive heart attack and die before seeing the play. Students have reported seeing him and feeling his presence in the theater, especially on long nights after a rehearsals and on nights of plays. West Side Story in no longer performed out of respect for the former teacher/director.

Cicero-Morton College-The school is haunted by the ghost of a little girl named Emily, who was murdered and her body buried on the land where the school is today. Her body was uncovered when construction of the school begin.  Her ghost has been seen moving from classroom to classroom, on the roof top, and in the theater. She seems to make her presence known during plays, and seems to be more frequent in the fall.  People have also heard footsteps when no one is around. The school is located at 3801 South Central Avenue, Cicero, IL 60650  Phone:(708)656-8000

Cicero-Warren Park-On the top floor of the Warren Park Administration building, people have reported hearing moaning and footsteps, a misty apparition has been seen, doors open and close, and a window has been completely shattered.

Clarendon Hills-The Country House Restaurant-The legend says that a woman was having an affair with a bartender at this location many years ago. Her husband was a traveling salesman and was out of town most of the time. One night she came to the bar and seen her lover in  the arms of another woman. She became very upset and stormed out of the building .  She was seen leaving the parking lot at a high rate of speed. Shortly after, the woman was found about a mile down the road dead as a result of a car accident. It is not known if she intentionally ran her car into the tree, or if it was purely by accident. Many people have reported seeing wearing the blue dress she wore on the night of her death. People have seen or feeling her presence in the storeroom, near the bar, and  in an upstairs bedroom.  She has locked people in rooms, opened and closed doors, turned lights on and off, and broke many dishes and glasses. Located at 241 West 55th Street, Clarendon Hills, IL 60514 Phone:708-325-1444.

Colchester-Vishnu Springs-Vishnu is an old abandoned township that is just west of Colchester. Numerous reports of people have the strong feeling that they are being watched and an uneasy feeling overcoming them. Many people have seen shadowy figures and heard strange noises.

Collinsville-Cahokia Mounds-The site dates back to 700 A.D. and was a city of twenty thousand by 1200 A.D. No one knows exactly who these people were, but have been dubbed the Temple Mound Builders. These people built over 120 mounds at this site. The largest earthwork is called Monk's Mound, and is also the largest in the Western Hemisphere.  The hundred-foot-tall, fourteen-acre mound was home to the principal ruler and is said to be the source of great psychic energy to this day. There is no doubt people can feel a great and indescribable presence when they visit these sites. Numerous reports of glowing orbs, moving shadows and the ghosts of American Indians have been seen here. People have heard Tom Toms, Indian Chats, and footsteps. The site is not in the town of Cahokia, but is located thirty miles southeast of St. Louis. For more information you can contact the Cahokia Mounds Museum Society, PO Box 382, Collinsville,IL 62234 or Phone: (618)344-9221. Or you can also contact the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, PO Box 681, Collinsville, IL 62234 or Phone: (618)346-5160

Collinsville-Old First Baptist Church-During WWII when tensions were high against Germans and people of German decent, it was discovered that the janitor was a German-American.  He was beat and locked into the basement. The church was then set on fire resulting in the death of the janitor. The church was rebuilt on the original foundation. People have reported cold spots, an uneasy feeling, hearing footsteps, seeing shadowy figures, and a hooded figure walking with a hell hound by his side. After some investigating it was found that seven spirits inhabit the church, one is referred to as a demon. The demon spirit is believed responsible for hiding and breaking objects, and grabbing people to the point of leaving bruises. The church burned to the ground on October 30, 2003.

Collinsville-Keebler Road Mansion-This old mansion use to stand on the curve of Keebler Road. During the time when slavery was legal, the basement was used to auction off the slaves. There was a stage like area with leg irons built into a concrete wall. People have reported seeing candle light moving from window to window at night. Numerous others have seen slaves walking around the outside of the mansion and down the road to an old cemetery. Others have reported hearing screams and other strange noises. Several years ago the house mysteriously burned down, but the paranormal events have not ended.

Collinsville-Lebanon Road "Gates of Hell"-(Urban Legend) On this lonely road there are a series of concrete tunnels (gates). It is said that if you park underneath any of these and turn your headlights off, the evil spirits will send out the hell hounds to bring your soul back to hell. Another legend says that if you drive through all the gates without driving through one of them twice that at the stroke of midnight you will be taken straight to hell.

Colona-Kauzlarich House-There has been reports of shadowy figures, doors opening and closing by themselves, and electrical disruptions.

Crete-The Ax-Man's House-In the 1970's a man murders his wife and children along with two police officers, with an ax. After killing them he hung them from hooks in the meat shed in the back of the property. He was then chased through the woods near his home by the police until he was finally shot and killed near the road. Upon entering the grounds a strange feeling of being watched is felt, and if you go around to the back of the house you can still see the blood splattered in the meat shed. In the house you will find a staircase that leads into the ceiling. If you go into one of the upstairs bedrooms you will find women’s shoes all over the floor and if you look out the window you will see what looks like a woman hanging from a rope in the tree. You can also still see the path that the ax man ran down to try to avoid the police. He is said to still haunt the bridge near where he died.

Crystal Lake-Barnes & Noble Bookstore-An elderly woman who died willed her property to her church, specifying that the property be used for a school. Barnes & Noble, along with a few other stores now occupy the property. Employees have reported seeing book carts and other objects being moved around by unseen hands. Some people have even claimed to see the elderly lady in the storeroom.

Crystal Lake-The Fountains of Crystal Lake-On the upper floor there has been reports of people seeing an apparition of an elderly woman that wanders the halls.  If you follow her, she will lead you down a hallway.. just before it dead ends she disappears. On the same floor there is an area with checkerboards to play checkers on. It has been reported that the checkers move on their own. In the basement, there is a strong sensation that you are being watched. If you walk down the hall, you can hear footsteps behind you.

Crystal Lake-Lake View Cemetery-The Lake View Cemetery is said to be haunted by a woman who set herself on fire and died.  People have seen her, and heard her screaming.

Crystal Lake-McHenry County-YMCA-People have heard screams coming from the wooded area behind the YMCA. Legends says that a nearby farmer killed his family and then himself in those woods.

Crystal Lake-Mount Thabor Cemetery-There have been numerous paranormal events at this old cemetery. There have been eerie shadows that appear to move, and a green mist seems to engulf the cemetery. Red, white, and green orbs have been seen and photographed.  Passing motorists have also seen these glowing balls of light floating throughout the cemetery and sometimes toward the road.

Crystal Lake-Palmer House-This is the site of a former orphanage ran by Mr. Palmer. He reportedly beat and abused the children, and on occasion beat them to death. Children screaming, and scratching at the doors can be heard. It has also been reported that people have seen children in the windows of the basement.

Crystal Lake-Park in Covered Bridge Trails-The stream located behind the park has had paranormal activity around it.  People have reported moving shadows, and glowing balls of light.

Crsytal Lake-Stickney Mansion-This mansion was built in 1849 by George Stickney, and is now haunted by his ghost. There have been many reports of people feeling like they are being watched, footsteps, and cold spots. Located at 1904 Cherry Valley Road, Crystal Lake, IL 60014

Danville-Cornfield Cemetery (Niccum)-Located off Long Road, this cemetery sits in the middle of several cornfields.  Numerous apparitions have been seen here, it is also been said that people that visit here get an uneasy feeling.

Danville-Hungry Hallow Road-This road is haunted by the ghosts of several small children. The legends say that in the middle of the great depression, the children got snowed in their shack and their parents or they could not get into town...so, the children starved to death.  People have reported seeing the ghosts of these small children, as well as hearing the voices of children saying,"Food" and "Food Please".

Danville-Kerasotes Theaters-Theater number one is said to be haunted by a family who previously lived on the land where the theater now stands. The land was once farmland and a farmhouse is believed to have stood where theater now stands. The rest of the theaters were built on after theater number one and do not have any reported activity. While previewing movies or when the theater is closed employees have reported seeing the apparition of a woman in a long white dress, and a man in the projection booth. There has also been reports of disembodied voices, footsteps, and cold spots. Located at 2917 N. Vermilion Street, Danville, IL 61832-1366   Phone:(217)443-3476 

Danville-New Holland Apartment. Building-A man was found dead in the basement of this building, but the cause of death was undetermined. The lights go on and off by themselves, as well as cold spots being felt.

Decatur-Avon Theater-The ghost of the original owner of the theater has been on numerous occasions.

Decatur-Greenwood Cemetery-Many believe this is the most haunted cemetery in central Illinois. The cemetery has a trouble history and is host to a great number of apparitions and other paranormal events. The cemetery was established in 1857, but got it's unofficial start in 1828, when a group of moonshiners massacred a band of Indians, and then dumped their bodies in a shallow ravine and covered them with stones. There is a ghost of a woman dressed in black who is seen frequently and hear weeping, she has been dubbed "The Greenwood Bride". The Sangamon River overflowed it's banks and flooded the cemetery, dislodging several coffins. Since that happened there has been many flickering balls of light  seen in the cemetery, many believe that these are the lost souls looking for their bodies. There is also an area of the cemetery referred to as Hell Hallow, where there was eight unsolved murders in the 1930's. Grave robbers also used this area to do their grueling work. This area is also contains several unmarked and mismarked graves after a mudslide collapsed the hill.  The ground was litter with coffins and bodies. The hill was rebuilt with concrete terraces, but many of the bodies were lost or mismarked.  Many of the stones were marked "Unknown Union Solider" , but are actually Confederate soldiers who died of yellow fever on a prison train that stopped in Decatur during the civil war. Since 1977, a man with two black holes for eyes has been seen numerous times. Located at the end of South Church Street. Hell Hollow is located on the southwest sided of the cemetery. The ghost lights are seen on the southern side of the cemetery along Lincoln Park Drive. The Indian burial site is on a hill on the south side the oldest section.

Decatur-Lincoln Theater-The ghost of a one armed man has been seen near the spiral staircase. People have heard footsteps and the voice of a man. Located on North Main Street, Decatur, IL 62521 Phone: 217-422-1711

Decatur-Milliken University-This Presbyterian  college was founded in 1901and is the host to many ghosts and spirits. The ghost of a man who fell down an elevator shaft haunts the basement of the Garin Library where he died. The unidentified ghost of a woman was been seen in Blackburn Hall. The old school gym was built in 1911, is now used by the theater department and is haunted by a mischievous ghost. The ghost has been known to move objects, hide them, take them, and place them back in their original spot. People have also reported hearing voices and applause coming from this building when no one is around.  Located at 1184 West Main Street, Decatur, IL 62522 Phone:(217)424-6210

Decatur-Pecs Cemetery-There has been numerous reports of glowing orbs, and the sounds of wolfs howling, and the sounds of someone running...but, no one is ever seen.

Decatur-Voorhies Castle-In the 1870's Nels Larson built this 14 room manor house on his 540 acres of land. There were rumors that the Larsons kept a severely retarded child chained up in one of the rooms. In 1914, Nels' wife Johanna was found dead on the central staircase of the house.  Nels then gathered his family and left the home forever. They left all their clothes, furniture, and belongings behind. The house remained vacant for 58 years. Many people have reported seeing the ghost of Johanna looking from the upper window. The sounds of rattling chains and animal-like noises are heard on the second floor.  The home has had several owners in the past 35 years.

Des Plaines-Galaxy Club-There are many paranormal events that take place hear. When standing near the juice bar, over the loud music you can here people calling your name. At the back of the club people have reported hearing the air hockey table being used when no one is near it. After the club has closed people have hear loud crashing sounds, but nothing has fallen. Some people have even seen orbs moving through the darkness of the club.

Des Plaines-Maryville Academy-In the 1930's this building was used for a Catholic orphanage. There are sounds of footsteps, swishing of skirts, and the sounds of the rosary beads clicking, but no one is ever seen.

DeSoto-Desoto Grade School-In 1925 the tri-state tornado ripped through this community. The tornado leveled this two story brick building killing several children. People have reported hearing the children laughing and playing in the halls and on the playground.

Dogtown-Pleasant Grove Cemetery-The cemetery is surrounded by a forest and you need to take  dirt roads to get back there. People have heard strange noises, and seeing shadowy figures.

Douglas County-Airtight Road-Many witnesses have seen specters here, and numerous people have reported having mechanical problems here. After leaving the cars run fine.

Douglas County-The Lost Forties-People report seeing a little girl running out in front and running her over with the car.  The impact is felt, but when people get out to check on the girl...she is gone.

East Moline-19th Avenue-A silent, shrouded figure of a man has been seen here numerous times. The figure has only been seen by children. The figure has been reported mostly near Butterworth Park under a large tree near the curb. Follow interstate 80 to highway 88/92 exit.

East Peoria-Cole Hollow Road-Cole Hallow Road was the site of "Cohomo" (Cole Hollow Road Monster) in the 1960's. Back then, there were numerous sightings of this monster, but none since. However, strange phenomena such as rocks flying out of nowhere at passing motorists and glowing globules in the woods have been reported.

East St. Louis-State Street building-The building is abandoned, but there has been numerous of reports of faint screams coming from the inside. The apparition of a woman appears with her hand reaching out like she is going to grab a hold of someone, then she vanishes into thin air.

Edwardsville-Three Mile House-This inn and tavern was established in 1858, and quickly became a popular destination along the St. Louis-Springfield stage coach route. This place is filled with paranormal events. Some of the hauntings that have been reported include those of slaves, children, and numerous others. For a more detailed reading about this place go to  http://www.prairieghosts.com/threemile.html

Effingham-Ramsey Cemetery-There have been many strange things reportedly happening here. This old cemetery is suppose to have several haunted caves. There have also been reports of a werewolf and a man cloaked in black with red glowing eyes.

Elgin-Beef Villa-Back in the 1980's a young teenage boy was reportedly killed in the parking lot in front of the restaurant. It is said that his angry and depressed spirit still plagues this location, causing many paranormal events.  Employees have reported seeing floating orbs of light and feeling cold spots. On several occasions the lights and ovens have gone on and off by themselves. Customers have reported having the feeling as if someone was standing behind them whispering, but nobody was there.

Elgin-Channing Memorial Elementary School-There has been numerous paranormal events that have taken place here. Most of the activity happens at night and on the upper floor. When an addition was built on to the building, over 13 skeletons were reportedly discovered. Most of them were reportedly children ranging in ages from 10 to 17 years old. Numerous reports of apparitions (several different ones), cold spots, whispers and footsteps have been reported. If you enter the building after dark, you can not help but to encounter some sort of paranormal activity. There have been several different night janitors that have been scared so badly, that they ran out of the building leaving their personal belongings behind. The refuse to tell what they saw or heard, and vow never to go back in the building again.

Elgin-Elgin Psychiatric Hospital Cemetery-At the turn of the century, there was documentation of the patients being tortured, sometimes to death. This treatment of patients was prior to science understanding insanity. These patients were buried up to five in a grave. People have reported seeing orbs, ectoplasmic mist, and apparitions.  They have also heard strange noises, whispers and screams, numerous cold spots have been felt as well.

Elgin-Elgin State Mental Hospital-Elgin State is a relic from the 1950's era for using pain as treatment for the mentally ill. Electroshock and cold therapy were some of the ghastly methods used to "treat" patients. Many patients died as the years went on, and eventually the cemetery ran out of room, so the bodies were incinerated in the basement.  The campus has been closed, but that does not stop people from hopping the fence and running from security guards. Many people consider this one of Chicagoland's most haunted places. People have reported strange noises, including tapping, screams, whispers and footsteps. Numerous reports of people seeing lights on inside, ectoplasmic mist, orbs, blooded stained walls and numerous apparitions.  The smell of decaying flesh has been smelled on several occasions.

Elgin-Ellis Middle School-The auditorium of the school is supposedly haunted by a ghost of a woman in a white lace dress. She has also been seen in the hallways and backstage.

Elgin-Illinois Park School-The school was over 100 years old, and was the host for many paranormal events. People have reported hearing little kids laughing and crying in the kindergarten area, but no one was present. In the basement of the school people said they heard a hammer striking metal, but no one was present. The school has been knocked done and now a parking lot for the new school.

Elkhart-Elkhart Cemetery-Former governor Governor Ogelsby is buried here. The ghost of his wife is seen here often. She comes to visit her husbands tomb. After sitting there for a few minutes, a group of American Indians ghosts chase her over the bridge that leads over the road to the cemetery. The woods at the back of the cemetery there’s a fence that separates them with a step stool and sign next to fence. The sign says, “grounds keepers don't wander back here neither should ladies and gents.” Well, it's a path over the fence going up the hill, people have heard voices and footsteps...and seen black shadowy figures and apparitions.

Elmhurst-Single track train track-Numerous people have reported seeing the apparition of a man carrying a lantern walking the tracks...then he disappears into thin air.

Equality-The Old Slave House-Old Slave House Museum "Crenshaw Place"-Back in the 1800's this house was used to house slaves that were waiting for sale to southern plantation owners.The first and second  stories of the home is where John Crenshaw and his family lived.  The third story contained 12 tiny rooms, one large room and an open hall with whipping posts.  This is where Mr. Crenshaw bred slaves for sale. They were often beaten and sometimes so badly that they died. These children, along with kidnapped blacks were sold to southern buyers, who sent boats up the Ohio River to pick them up.  Slavery was Illegal in IL, so the owner has a side entrance built on to the house that a wagon could pull up to and a person or persons could be taken into the house and up to attic without being seen. Some of his victims were free blacks that he kidnapped and held captured until they were sold down south when was done breading them. To this day the attic still has the little stalls with the chains on the wall and floor. In the 1920s, exorcist Hickman Whittington tried to rid the home of the evil spirits. A short time after entering the home, he ran out and died a short time later. In 1966, two marines tried to tackle the spirits on the third floor.  A few hours later, they ran from the home too. They said that they were surrounded by ghostly figures and heard a cacophony of voices.  There were over 150 people who tried to spend the night on the third floor alone, but none were successful. Finally in 1978, a reporter for WSIL-TV, David Rodgers, became the first person to make it through the night.  There has been cold spots felt throughout the building, footsteps, screams and crying have been heard as well.  A few people have reported seeing a black woman on the second floor that walks right through the wall. The third floor of this home is considered to be one of the countries most haunted locations. Located at Highway 13 Junction, Harrisburg, IL 92954 Phone 618-276-4410