Another famous one is the hauntings at the Mineral Springs Hotel in Alton. There are stories of a ghostly bellboy who still tries to serve guests. This could be related to the hotel's long - standing history and the many people who have passed through its doors over the years. Some guests have reported their luggage being moved or strange noises in their rooms.
One well - known True Illinois Ghost Story is about the Bachelor's Grove Cemetery. It's said to be haunted by various apparitions. People have reported seeing strange lights, shadowy figures, and even a white lady. Many believe it's due to the cemetery's long history and the many unmarked graves there.
In some parts of Illinois, there are stories of phantom hitchhikers. A young woman is said to be hitchhiking along a lonely road. If you pick her up, she disappears once you reach a certain point. It's a classic and very spooky Illinois ghost story.
At a particular Illinois college, there's a story about a ghost in the campus theater. Legend has it that an actor who was deeply in love with the theater passed away suddenly. Now, actors and stage crew sometimes report seeing a figure in period clothing in the wings or on the stage when they're alone. There have been unexplained noises like footsteps on the empty stage and the sound of a single person clapping in an otherwise silent theater.
Another well - known story involves a local theater. Actors and stagehands have claimed to see the figure of a man in old - fashioned clothing backstage. It's said that this man was a playwright who died suddenly during a production many decades ago. His presence is often felt during rehearsals, and sometimes his voice can be faintly heard giving direction.
There are rumors of a haunted house in Springfield. Supposedly, a family died tragically there many years ago. Neighbors claim to hear strange noises at night, like moaning and creaking. Some even say they've seen the apparitions of the family members through the windows, looking all pale and sad.
There's a tale of a old theater in Western Illinois. Actors and stagehands have reported seeing a ghostly figure of a woman in a Victorian - era dress. She is often seen in the balcony, watching the performances as if she were still an audience member from long ago. Some think she was a famous actress who had a strong connection to the theater in her lifetime.
There's a story in Quincy about a haunted cemetery. People claim that when they walk through it at midnight, they hear strange whispers and sometimes see apparitions. It's said that these are the spirits of the early settlers who are not at rest. Some say that a particular gravestone seems to glow in the moonlight, and if you touch it, you'll feel an icy coldness.
One well - known Western Illinois ghost story is about the haunted old mansion on the outskirts of town. Locals claim to see a mysterious figure in white roaming the halls at night. Some believe it's the spirit of a young woman who died tragically in that house many years ago.