The weather is becoming cooler and Halloween is just around the corner. Now is the best time to head to Granbury for prime stories, spooks and scares. I was recently invited out to attend the Granbury Ghost & Legends Tour in Granbury, Texas. If you’re looking for a place to get goosebumps, this is it.
Upon arrival, I was situated in the middle of the town square, surrounded by history, folklore and legendary tales. Perhaps you’ve been to Granbury before, or maybe this is a first trip but there’s something for everyone that will leave you surprised and amazed. I was greeted by my guide who took us around town prompting stories and surprises.
Although I’ve been to Granbury numerous times, it’s the first time that I really got to listen to some of the amazing history that the walls in the town have to tell. We visited buildings that I’ve passed by previously and even shopped, private residences and B&B’s that make this town so enchanted.
Keep an eye (or an ear) out for Mary Lou Watkins. She died in 2001 however she still checks in from time to time to make sure everything is running smoothly.
History looms forward with tales of Davy Crockett, Bonnie and Clyde, John Wilkes Booth and other outlaws. There’s a lot more to this town than meets the idea.
We stopped by the jail where we learned about Joe the Indian and other “visitors” that have passed thru the doors over the years.
The Aston House
The Aston House is a private residence in town however there have been multiple reports of activity within these walls. This home was built for Dolly in 1905 and sources say she has stuck around. There’s also tales of a friendly cat that has stayed (not the one on the front steps, I asked but maybe not entirely convinced). We were told that when we feel a presence we are suppose to say “If you mean us harm please leave, if you mean us no harm, please stay.“ We were told a story about how one day, the occupants at the time heard a knocking sound. They soon repeated the phrase and heard footsteps walking around the house. To find out whether or not the footsteps left or stayed, you’ll have to take the tour!
The Gordon House
The Gordon House is an enchantment. Audrey Gordon is the primary resident, a child who died at the age of five. She is a lively and happy spirit that has played with local children who have come for music lessons over the years. If you have any doubts about ghost stories, this is the house that you’ll most look forward to on the tour. It’ll leave you questioning your doubts. It left me with goosebumps.
John Wilkes Booth went missing for some time after he shot Abraham Lincoln. Funny thing is there was a man who came to town to teach theatre that had many similarities to John Wilkes Booth named John St. Helen. Within the businesses in the town square, we learned more about the similarities between these two men and what became of the assassination of the President, a love story between a cowboy and a lady for the gentlemen and about a faceless little girl who wanders the streets and businesses.
Even on our tour, I found myself asking questions and couldn’t believe a couple tales that held hidden surprises along the way. It made me wonder just what happened in some of these buildings so long (and not so long) ago and what they leave behind.
If you love the tales of the past that make their way to the present, book yourself a personal tour. The Ghost and Legends Tour also has tour options for a nearby cemetery that holds secrets of its own including General Granbury himself and Jesse James.
Don’t forget to bring your camera – you may find evidence that they’re paying you a visit as well!
Upcoming Events
Bow Wow Trick or Treat – October 25th 12pm-4pm at Shanley Park. $5 per dog – Take your dog through the park trick or treating for doggie goodies. Vendors, costume contest, pet psychic, and photographer (all additional fees). All proceeds will benefit Hood County Animal Lovers Organization (HALO) and Second Chance Farm.
Granbury Paranormal Expo – April 25-26, 2015 – Meet and hear from the youngest survivor of Amityville Horror.
If you’re looking for a good spot to check out on a weekend drive, day trip, Texas road trip – this is your town and this is your stop!
Dancehalls. I love them! Love really doesn’t cut it. I don’t think there’s just one thing that I love, I love everything but most of all, it’s the history that the walls hold. The people that have walked through the door, two-stepped across the old wooden floors, music that filled the air, along with laughter, banter and I’m sure there’s been a few arguments along the way.
Honestly, I was pretty excited about the moose! It’s not a typical Texas sight!
The Greenwood is the perfect place to grab a beer, sit back and just enjoy the Texas character. There’s a lot on the walls and you never know who you’ll meet sitting at the bar!
The inside is pretty amazing in itself but then there’s the entire outdoor aspect. Take a gander!
Now I know what you’re saying, dancehall?! Where’s the band. Well, they were setting up as I was heading out. There’s room. Seriously, every town should have a watering hole such as this. Is this not the perfect spot to cool off on any afternoon?
Until next time! I’ll be back (with friends)!