There is a cemetery in the West Branch State Park that is rumored to be haunted by a witch. Many people have witnessed a woman dressed in black near the trail. They also believe that the graveyard is cursed and if it is disturbed, something bad will happen to its visitors when they leave.
History
The Elliott Family Cemetery was established in the early 1800s. The government took over the land in 1965 by eminent domain. The US Army Corp of Engineers used most of the surrounding land to create the Kirwan Reservoir. A year later, the Army leased the land to the state for park use.
Due to legends, the area youth have been trespassing and vandalizing the cemetery ever since. There are at least six known burials but the grave markers have been destroyed.
The West Branch State Park features hiking, biking, and walking trails. Camping, swimming, boating, fishing, and hunting are some of the other activities people do at the park.
Haunted History
Many park visitors believe that the cemetery and nearby trails are haunted. The ghost of a woman has been spotted often. Most folks think that she is a witch and that the cemetery is cursed. Some say that if anything is taken, particulary a stone, something bad will happen. A lot of people report getting into car accidents after exploring the cemetery. One fatal accident involving high school students has been blamed on the witch.
Location
The Elliott Family Cemetery is located in the West Branch State Park, off of Cable Line Road, in Edinburg Township, Ohio.
Be sure to check out John's other columns:
Akron Paranormal Examiner
Cleveland Haunted Places Examiner
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