Cobb County may be known for its rich history and southern charm, but beneath its picturesque exterior lies a world of eerie tales and haunted locations. Cobb is a treasure trove for those seeking a glimpse into the supernatural, from historic battlefields to old inns. So, whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or just someone who enjoys a good scare, let’s dive into the spooky stories and ghost tours that reveal the dark side of our county!
Chilling Local Legends and Spooky Stories
Cobb County is rich with ghost stories that have been passed down through the years. These tales, whether based on real events or simply the result of local folklore, contribute to the eerie atmosphere that surrounds many of the county’s historic sites.
Kennesaw House
One of the most famous stories is that of the Kennesaw House in Marietta. During the Civil War, the building served as a hospital and morgue for Confederate soldiers. It’s said that the spirits of these soldiers never left.
Visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures in Confederate uniforms wandering the halls, and some have even claimed to hear the sounds of battle echoing through the building late at night. The most unsettling tale involves the ghost of a young boy who is said to haunt the basement. Those who have encountered him describe a feeling of intense sadness, as if the boy is searching for something—or someone—he lost long ago.
Cowan Historic Mill
The Cowan Historic Mill, built in 1874 by John Cowan, has a long and eerie history. Once a flour and tapestry mill, it later became a restaurant, but ghosts apparently weren’t keen on the new guests.
Chefs and staff have reported constant paranormal activity—doors slamming, lights turning off, and strange noises in the basement, where a schoolteacher named Elizabeth is said to have hanged herself after a tragic love affair. One spirit is known for leaving lipstick marks on drinking glasses, while another ghost has a fascination with fire, relighting extinguished candles overnight. The Cowan Historic Mill continues to be a haunted landmark in Acworth today.
Concord Covered Bridge
South Cobb’s Concord Bridge may be infamous for frequent collisions with distracted drivers, but it also carries a darker reputation. Locals refer to it as “Crybaby Bridge,” claiming that if you park your car in the middle of the bridge on a quiet night, you might hear the faint sound of a child crying.
According to legend, two children tragically drowned in Nickajack Creek, which flows beneath the bridge, sometime after it was constructed in 1872. Just nearby is the Concord Baptist Cemetery, often called the “witch’s graveyard.” Some say they've seen ghostly figures and mysterious orbs, while others experience sudden chills—if they dare to visit at night.
Popular Ghost Tours in Cobb County
Cobb County offers a variety of ghost tours that bring its haunted history to life, each providing a unique glimpse into the county’s eerie past. Here are two popular options that will leave you both intrigued and spooked.
Ghosts of Marietta
The Ghost of Marietta takes you on a nighttime walk through historic Marietta, available every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening year-round, with an expanded schedule in October. The tour covers less than a mile and starts at $20 per person.
One of the highlights is a visit to the Marietta History Center, located in the famously haunted Kennesaw House. According to some accounts, the Kennesaw House is home to as many as 700 ghosts, many of them Civil War soldiers. Guests can explore the building after hours on a paranormal investigation led by a knowledgeable guide.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, Ghosts of Marietta also offers a trolley tour through the city. This ride includes stops at the Historic Marietta Square and three cemeteries—the City Cemetery, Confederate Cemetery, and National Cemetery. As the trolley passes several historic homes, guides share chilling stories about their haunted pasts, making this an unforgettable journey into the paranormal.
Acworth Ghost Tour
Acworth Ghost Tour operates every Friday and Saturday in October, offering a 1.2-mile walking tour through the historic downtown area. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours explore the city’s haunted past with stories of local legends and historical events. Private group tours are available year-round with advance notice for groups of 10 or more.
If you’re looking for something a little different, Acworth Ghost Tours also offers a Haunted Pub Crawl. This unique experience includes stops at three pubs, with 20 minutes spent at each, combining history, legends, and entertainment in one unforgettable evening.
Visiting Haunted Sites on Your Own
While guided ghost tours offer a structured way to experience Cobb County’s haunted history, some may prefer to explore these spooky sites on their own. If you’re up for the challenge, there are plenty of locations that you can visit independently—just be sure to bring your courage and respect the places you explore.
Marietta Square
Marietta Square is a great place to start. During the day, it’s a bustling center of activity, but at night, the square takes on an entirely different atmosphere. The Marietta Museum of History, housed in the old Kennesaw House, is worth a visit, especially for those interested in the building’s haunted past. While the museum is closed at night, simply walking around the square after dark can be a spine-tingling experience.
Marietta Confederate Cemetery
For those who prefer a more remote location, the Marietta Confederate Cemetery offers a peaceful yet eerie atmosphere. The cemetery is one of the largest Confederate cemeteries in the South, and it’s said to be haunted by the spirits of the soldiers buried there. Visit at dusk or dawn for the best chance of experiencing something otherworldly, but remember to be respectful—these are hallowed grounds.
Kennesaw Mountain
If you’re looking for a more active haunt, the area around Kennesaw Mountain is another popular spot. The mountain saw intense fighting during the Civil War, and many visitors have reported hearing the sounds of battle—cannon fire, gunshots, and the cries of soldiers—even though the area is now a peaceful park. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the history of Kennesaw Mountain makes it a fascinating and sobering place to visit.
Cobb County’s haunted history is a fascinating blend of fact and folklore, making it a perfect destination for those interested in the paranormal. From guided ghost tours to independent explorations of haunted sites, there are plenty of ways to experience the county’s spooky side. So, if you’re looking for a thrill, why not delve into Cobb County’s ghostly past? Just remember to keep your wits about you—you never know what might be lurking in the shadows.
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