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Bonaventure Cemetery: A Haunted History

Located in Savannah, Georgia, Bonaventure Cemetery is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. This picturesque cemetery is steeped in history and boasts stunning scenery, but it is also known for its haunted reputation.

Many visitors to Bonaventure Cemetery have reported strange and unexplainable occurrences, such as seeing apparitions, hearing strange noises, or feeling an inexplicable sense of unease. Some have even claimed to have experienced physical sensations, such as cold spots or being touched by unseen hands.

But where does this haunted reputation come from, and is there any truth to it? Let's delve into the history of Bonaventure Cemetery to find out.

History of Bonaventure Cemetery

Bonaventure Cemetery was established in 1846 on a plot of land donated by John Mullryne, a local plantation owner. Originally named "Evergreen Cemetery," it was later renamed "Bonaventure" by the son of one of the cemetery's superintendents.

In its early years, Bonaventure Cemetery was primarily a burial ground for Savannah's elite families, including politicians, military leaders, and other prominent figures. Many of these families commissioned elaborate and ornate graves and monuments, which still stand today and contribute to the cemetery's unique and beautiful aesthetic.

Over time, Bonaventure Cemetery fell into disrepair, and it wasn't until the 1980s that restoration efforts began. Today, the cemetery is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to admire its stunning architecture, intricate gravestones, and lush scenery.

Haunted Legends and Stories

Despite its beauty, Bonaventure Cemetery is also known for its dark and mysterious history. Over the years, many legends and stories have emerged about the cemetery and its supposed hauntings.

One of the most famous stories involves the "Bird Girl" statue, a sculpture created by artist Sylvia Shaw Judson in 1936. The statue originally stood in Bonaventure Cemetery but was moved to a museum in the 1990s due to concerns about vandalism.

The Bird Girl statue gained notoriety after being featured on the cover of the book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" by John Berendt, which chronicled a real-life murder trial that took place in Savannah in the 1980s. Many believe that the statue is cursed, and that those who take pictures of it will be plagued by misfortune.

Another famous legend involves the grave of Gracie Watson, a young girl who died of pneumonia in 1889. Gracie's parents commissioned an elaborate statue of their daughter, which still stands today and is said to weep tears of blood on occasion.

There are also many stories of ghostly apparitions and unexplainable occurrences within the cemetery itself. Some have reported seeing the ghost of a man walking his dog, while others claim to have heard the sound of a woman weeping.

Is Bonaventure Cemetery Really Haunted?

While there is no concrete evidence to suggest that Bonaventure Cemetery is truly haunted, many of the stories and legends surrounding the cemetery have persisted over the years. Some believe that the spirits of those buried there still linger, while others chalk it up to superstition and folklore.

Despite its haunted reputation, Bonaventure Cemetery remains a beautiful and fascinating destination for visitors interested in history, art, and architecture. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, the cemetery's rich history and stunning scenery make it a must-visit location in Savannah.

Bonaventure Cemetery and its haunted reputation:

Many of the stories and legends about Bonaventure Cemetery have been passed down through generations of locals and visitors to Savannah. The city itself is known for its reputation as one of the most haunted in America, with countless ghost tours and paranormal investigations taking place throughout the year.

Some of the stories about Bonaventure Cemetery are rooted in the history of the area. For example, Savannah played a significant role in the Civil War, and many soldiers from both the Union and Confederate armies were buried in Bonaventure Cemetery. Some believe that the spirits of these soldiers still haunt the cemetery, and that their ghosts can be seen wandering among the graves.

Others attribute the cemetery's haunted reputation to its unique location. Bonaventure Cemetery sits on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River, and many believe that the energy from the water and the surrounding marshlands contributes to the paranormal activity in the area.

Despite the many legends and stories surrounding Bonaventure Cemetery, there is no scientific proof of its haunting. However, that has not stopped the cemetery from becoming a popular destination for ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts.

Many visitors to Bonaventure Cemetery report feeling a sense of unease or being watched, especially in certain areas of the cemetery. Some have reported hearing strange sounds or voices, while others have seen unexplained movements or apparitions. Some have even claimed to have captured photographic evidence of ghosts or other paranormal activity.