The Ghosts and Hauntings of Greenfield, Ohio

Greenfield, Ohio, is plagued by two ghost stories. One of the stories has a basis in fact, or at least there is some historical evidence to highlight the story. The other popular ghost story in Greenfield is one that sounds very similar to ones told all over the Midwest.

The Edward McClain High School in Greenfield, Ohio is one place rumored to be haunted. According to the story this school was originally built by a couple named McClain. When they began construction during the 1800’s they argued over whether or not to add a gorgeous chandelier to the building.

The story claims that Edward wanted a gorgeous marble staircase, while his wife wanted the chandelier. He eventually added the staircase, but continued her request for the chandelier. When she passed away though, she finally got her wish. Suddenly those in the neighborhood began noticing a gorgeous chandelier hanging from the ceiling. It was only evident to those who were outside of the building. Some claim that this ghostly image can still be seen when you walk by the Sixth Street entrance to the school.

Greenfield is also home to a ghostly crybaby bridge. According to the legend, Greenfield was once home to a young mother who practiced witchcraft. One night locals decided to finally rid the woman from their town. They chased her out to the bridge, where she accidentally dropped her baby over its side. As she continued to scream for her child, the locals killed her.

The legend says that cars that attempt to drive over this bridge at night will find that the engines suddenly die in the middle. As you sit inside your car you will hear the sounds of people running onto the bridge and shouting. You can also hear what sounds like a baby crying under the bridge.

The story of the crybaby bridge is one that I’ve heard from dozens of states, though not as detailed or elaborate as this one. The idea of a witchcraft practicing mother is interesting, though it doesn’t have much basis in fact.

Greenfield is also home to an interesting story that eventually found its way into the New York Times. According to a local minister, the town experienced a female ghost who seemed to enjoy kissing “virtuous” young men. A number of residents claimed to see this spirit, and she almost always grabbed young men, or offered them a kiss.

Some believed that the woman was once a teacher in New England who was ignored by men during life. The story was originally published in 1981, and at the time people wholeheartedly believed it. The ghost was always accused of attacking young men, and the minister was certain that it was a sign of the end of times.

Now this story is just cute, and an interesting side note to the town. Was there really a ghost? Or were there just a new less than virtuous men in town who were looking for something supernatural to describe their actions? Unless someone admits the truth, we may never know.

Sources:

www.realhaunts.com/haunted-houses/united-states/ohio/greenfield/

www.nytimes.com