Riverside Cemetery: Where History Rests Amidst Paranormal Tales
Established in 1870, Riverside Cemetery holds a significant place in the history of Appleton, Wisconsin. As the city’s first cemetery, it served as the final resting place for many pioneers and community members. Designed by Captain N.M. Edwards and cared for by the first groundskeeper, Dennis Meidam, Riverside Cemetery quickly became a cherished location for its beauty, attracting visitors who would take leisurely walks and enjoy picnics on its grounds. Today, spanning approximately ninety acres of land, the cemetery continues to serve as a place of remembrance. However, Riverside Cemetery’s rich history has also sparked numerous reports of paranormal activity, lending an air of mystery to this tranquil resting place.
The History of the Riverside Cemetery
Riverside Cemetery owes its existence to Joseph Harriman, who spearheaded the establishment of this non-profit, city-owned burial ground in 1870. Under the design guidance of Captain N.M. Edwards, the cemetery was carefully laid out, offering a serene and picturesque setting for those laid to rest. The first person interred in Riverside Cemetery was Reverend T.W. Orbison, and subsequently, many pioneers found their final resting place within its grounds.
Recognized as “Appleton’s Popular Resort,” Riverside Cemetery drew not only mourners but also visitors who sought solace in its tranquil surroundings. People would take walks through the cemetery, appreciating its natural beauty, and even indulge in picnics, making it a gathering place for the community. In 1910, the construction of a grand stone entrance further enhanced the cemetery’s aesthetic appeal and served as a testament to its significance.
Even as time passed, Riverside Cemetery continued to fulfill its purpose, providing a place of eternal rest for the departed. Today, the cemetery remains active, serving as a poignant reminder of Appleton’s past.
Is the Riverside Cemetery Haunted?
Riverside Cemetery’s long history and tranquil ambiance have given rise to numerous reports of paranormal activity. Visitors and paranormal enthusiasts have recounted chilling encounters within the cemetery’s grounds, lending credence to the belief that not all the spirits at Riverside Cemetery are at rest.
One common claim involves sightings of ghostly children running through the cemetery and along the nearby river, particularly during the late hours of the night. Witnesses have reported seeing fleeting apparitions, catching glimpses of ethereal figures that seem to vanish into thin air.
Students and ghost hunters who have visited Riverside Cemetery in search of paranormal experiences have claimed to have been physically touched or even pushed by unseen forces. These encounters have left an indelible impression on those who have experienced them, leaving them with a lingering sense of the supernatural.
One notable grave within Riverside Cemetery is that of Kate Blood, an early settler in Appleton. Kate Blood’s grave has become the subject of urban legends, with some attributing witchcraft or even murder to her name. Her final resting place has become a popular site for visitors, and there have been claims of witnessing her apparition. Additionally, a local legend suggests that during a full moon, one may observe blood dripping from Kate Blood’s tombstone, adding a chilling element to her already mysterious tale.
The combination of ghostly sightings, unexplained physical interactions, and the enduring legends surrounding Kate Blood’s grave have contributed to Riverside Cemetery’s reputation as a place of paranormal activity.
Riverside Cemetery, with its rich history and picturesque setting, stands as a testament to the lives and stories of Appleton’s past. While it remains a place of remembrance, the reports of ghostly encounters and paranormal phenomena have added an intriguing layer of mystique to this hallowed ground. Whether these stories are the result of vivid imaginations or true supernatural experiences, Riverside Cemetery continues to captivate the curiosity of those seeking to explore the realms beyond our understanding.
Address: 714 N Owaissa St., Appleton, WI 54911
Sources:
1. Find a Grave. “Riverside Cemetery.” https://www.findagrave.com
2. Appleton Downtown. “Riverside Cemetery.” https://appletondowntown.org/
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