Haunted History Tours at Old Cahawba offer real ghost stories, without the ‘jump scares’

The eerie echoes of Alabama’s first state capital are stirring once again as Old Cahawba Archaeological Park prepares to host its 17th annual Haunted History Tours.  

This year’s event promises a blend of chilling authenticity and family-friendly activities that make it one of the most anticipated fall traditions in the Black Belt. 

Old Cahawba Director Dr. William Henry and Assistant Director Jonathan Matthews are leading the charge with new locations and expanded programming.  

“We’re mixing it up this year,” Henry said. “In addition to the New Cemetery, we’re adding Castle Morgan, the Civil War POW prison.” Paranormal investigators have called it “very active,” so it should be a great spot for stories. 

Unlike typical haunted houses, Old Cahawba’s tours focus on real ghost stories passed down through generations.  

“These tales range from Civil War-era legends to recent experiences by staff and visitors,” Matthews said. “There are no ‘jump scares,’ no costumes.” 

This year introduces “Ghost Stories for Kids,” a shorter wagon ride designed for children under 12 and their guardians. Held at dusk, these half-hour tours offer a gentle introduction to Cahawba’s haunted past. A Trunk or Treat event at the Visitor Center will offer candy and fun for younger guests. 

Uncle Clyde’s food truck will be on-site serving barbecue, and the traditional fire pit storytelling returns to anchor the evening’s atmosphere.  

“We’ve had people come year after year,” Matthews said. “They know the stories, but it’s become a tradition. They bring cameras and take photos of gravestones. It’s a way to create their own ghost stories.” 

Tour dates are Saturday, Oct. 18 and Saturday, Oct. 25. Tickets are $25 and are on sale now. Each tour is90minutes with wagon rides departing every 30 minutes from 7p.m. to 9p.m. Ghost Stories for Kids tours are $5. The half-hour rides start at 5 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.  

Tickets can be purchased by calling 334-872-8058. Or visit the park to explore the grounds in the daytime and pick up your tickets in person. 

Whether you're a longtime attendee or a first-time visitor, Old Cahawba’s Haunted History Tours offer a rare chance to explore the park after dark and connect with the spectral stories that linger in Alabama’s most famous ghost town.