Illinois‘s paranormal history ties to a history of deeply tragic events, with both Alton and Chicago standing out. Some locations with most reported paranormal activity include Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery, Congress Plaza Hotel, Milton Schoolhouse, McPike Mansion, Mineral Springs Hotel, and First Unitarian Church. The small town’s haunted status has been fueled by events like the murder of abolitionist Elijah Lovejoy, the deaths of Confederate soldiers from a smallpox epidemic in a former prison, and numerous suicides and other tragedies at various historical spots. The Windy City’s legends can also be tied to historical events and figures, but also urban legend plays a bit of a role.
McPike Mansion is far and away the most prevalent haunted hotspot in Alton. This dilapidated brick home belonged to the family of Henry McPike and their servant, Sarah Wells. Also reportedly seen is the ghost of a later owner, Paul Laichinger. Shadows, orbs, and disembodied voices are common occurrences, especially in the dingy basement.
Mineral Springs Hotel is thought to be an epicenter for ghosts and spirits, due to the mineral water found nearby that many desperate people came for to cure their ailments. Most people report various unexplained phenomena, like splashing water in the now-empty pool and the appearance of a tall shadow figure.
First Unitarian Church is ripe with reports of disembodies footsteps and voices, phantom cologne smells, and apparitions, often linked to a former pastor named Phillip.
Milton Schoolhouse is said to be haunted by several spirits of former students and a mysterious ghostly male named Charlie. Visitors have reported hearing children’s laughter and footsteps, even with nobody else around.
Confederate Cemetery & Memorial is a site that’s long been associated with over 1,400 smallpox victims who died during the Civil War at Old Alton Penitentiary, which is also notorious for hauntings.
Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery, also known as Resurrection Cemetery, on the outskirts of Chicago is well-known for the female apparition often seen hitchhiking along Archer Avenue. Legend says that Resurrection Mary was likely killed as a pedestrian in traffic, and she wants to find a way to return home.
Congress Plaza Hotel in downtown Chicago has a dark history tied to old mobster times, including the legendary Al Capone having occupied space within the building.
