Known as the “Volunteer State” for its tradition of military service, Tennessee has stories as diverse as its landscapes, people and history. Tennessee's name comes from the early Cherokee town “Tanasi.” Although a Confederate state during the Civil War, its population was sharply divided between Union and Confederate sympathies.
Tennessee’s terrain includes the towering Blue Ridge Mountains to the east, the tranquil valleys of the Cumberland Plateau, numerous caves beneath central Tennessee, and the fertile plains to the west. Diverse cultures in these regions tell a variety of ghost stories – from the Ghost of Fiddlers Rock to the terrifying Bell Witch Cave. There are also bizarre true stories, like the execution of circus elephant Murderous Mary. Read and listen to more stories from this unique state below.
Tourists at the Battle of Shiloh historic site stumble across a terrifying cave in this Civil War ghost story from Bill Morris. “Nearly 24,000 men were wounded, killed or captured that day. Nearly 11,000 on our side - brave Johnny Rebs.” The speaker was dressed in the full…
Tennessee monster story of a man pursued through the holler by strange creature from local legend. Written by Bill Julie Arbunkle.
Bizarre yet true Civil War story of one unlucky Confederate soldier, coming home to Tennessee. Written by Kathy Warnes.
Tennessee ghost story of a budding guitarist seeking fame in Nashville who hitches a ride with a creepy bootlegger.
Tennessee ghost story of a killer who encounters a strange old man along a dark road after burying his victim.