One Of The Most Historic Towns In Arkansas Is Also Among The Most Haunted
By Melanie Johnson|Published October 02, 2023
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Melanie Johnson
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I am a nature lover and self-proclaimed foodie wrapped in one package. In my previous life, I was an Accountant, but numbers were boring and writing is the only thing that fuels my soul. So, I write because it's my freedom...it brings me joy. When I'm not writing dope articles for OnlyInYourState, I am writing and editing articles for my online blog on Medium.com. Or, when I get the chance, I am off on a trip with my family chasing waterfalls, or simply exploring the great outdoors. My mantra is to always find the best part of every day and bask in it.
Here in Arkansas, we have countless bone-chilling urban legends, murder stories, phantom killers, and more. And no town is more notorious for these frightening tales than Texarkana. Most of the town is believed to be haunted, making it attractive for folks who love the paranormal. But the town also has incredible historical significance, and it’s dotted with several buildings that are both historic and perhaps haunted as well. If you’re brave enough, let’s explore this haunted town in Arkansas and learn a bit about its fascinating history.
Established in 1880, Texarkana was a major hub for folks traveling through the Arkansas and Texas area by railroad.
The town features many incredible buildings that are filled with historical significance, 29 of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Due to the growing popularity of the railroad, the town was a hotspot for violence that included high crimes, murders, lynchings, and more.
But at night, the spooky town becomes a stomping ground for the weary souls who are forever trapped within the city limits. In fact, Texarkana is well known for its hauntings and many of the historical buildings have a story to tell.
For instance, Hotel Grim was once a grand hotel in town and was well-known for its spooky encounters. Built in 1925, this hotel was a symbol of opulence while it was in operation.
It closed in 1990 and since then, creepy reports have been made about the spirit of an opera singer as well as a serial rapist that are trapped inside the building. With a name like hotel Grim, I would expect nothing else. Today, the building has been renovated and transformed into the Lofts at the Grim, a luxury apartment complex. Unfortunately, I am not sure if the spirits left the building, so enter at your own risk.
Another notable location is the historic Union Station that is known to be one of the most haunted places in town. Constructed in the late 1920s, the gorgeous station was a major hub for several railroads that serviced the area, and it contributed to the growth of Texarkana.
The Renaissance-style building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 and was recently purchased for redevelopment. But of course, there have been ghostly apparitions recorded and even captured on camera at the station. Folks have mentioned seeing a headless woman in a blue dress on the platform as well as the spirit of Ed Coy who was brutally lynched in 1892 near the tracks. Paranormal enthusiasts have also reported about other wandering spirits inside the station.
More historical and haunted sites and buildings include the Miller County Courthouse, East Side of Broad Street, and the McCartney Hotel (across the street from Union Station in Texas).
Also, the Municipal Building that was constructed in 1927 is another hotspot where paranormal investigators have captured bone-chilling voices. Of course, with a town that is a portal for so many hauntings, it makes sense to have a Ghost Walk tour.
So, if you're searching for a way to add a little thrill to your Halloween adventures, take the Haunted Texarkana Ghost Walk. You'll learn the history of the buildings while you chase those unsettled spirits trapped in limbo.
If you're brave enough, it will be the ultimate spooktacular adventure. Do you agree that Texarkana is the most haunted town in Arkansas? Or is there another town that you believe we should have covered. If so, tell us in the comments below.
Be sure to visit the City of Texarkana website for more information about these historical and haunted sites in the town. Also, if you would like to plan a trip to this haunted town, here are a few hotels in Texarkana that we recommend.
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