The Vanishing Hitchhiker of Union Cemetery

Located in the quiet, serene town of Easton, Connecticut, the Union Cemetery has developed a strong reputation for being one of the most haunted in the United States. While there have been many ghost stories generated over the past several decades, the one that stands out for paranormal enthusiasts, ghost hunters, and the simply curious is the hitchhiker of Union Cemetery.

The cemetery itself dates to the 18th century. And while the oldest standing tombstone was placed in 1761, it is believed that there are older graves that no longer have tombstones or were unmarked. The age of the cemetery combined with its secluded setting amid the surrounding woods have created many ghost stories. And while some are certainly made up or perhaps exaggerations of the spooky atmosphere, the hitchhiker of Union Cemetery is the most persistent.

The Lady in White

Known at the “Lady in White” or “White Lady”, she is a spectral figure who has been seen by many witnesses over the years. She has been described wearing a flowing, white gown and is often seen next to Route 59 which passes the cemetery, hence the designation as being a hitchhiker. Her form is translucent and accompanied by a glow that some described as otherworldly.

Those who have seen the White Lady report that her ghostly figure stands next to Route 59, which runs across the front of the cemetery. Her hand is outstretched as if she were pleading for a ride or perhaps trying to get some attention. Her forlorn appearance is enough to stop drivers upon seeing her. However, when they open the door, they discover that she has vanished.

Other stories of the hitchhiker of Union Cemetery are of drivers who did not stop but saw nothing as they looked back. Others saw the Lady in White in their rearview mirror as they passed the cemetery and in a few cases, the backseats of their vehicles. But as quickly as she appears, she disappears which only adds to her haunting reputation.
Who is the Lady in White?

The apparition does not feature obvious clues to her identity, but many believe that she is a woman buried in the cemetery. Two of the candidates share the same first name, Harriet R. Seeley and Harriet Brian, both of whom died giving birth.

However, other stories are somewhat more elaborate. One speculating that she was a bride-to-be that met an untimely demise before she was wed. Another is that it was a woman who succumbed to a tragic accident that took place near the cemetery. Although in both cases, the stories have no historic accounts to verify that either happened.

Paranormal investigations have revealed the cemetery to be a hotbed of supernatural activity. Meaning that there are more spectral apparitions apart from the Lady in White herself.

For those seeking a brush with the unknown, Union Cemetery has a well-deserved reputation for its haunting atmosphere. However, for interested parties the cemetery is closed at night. Which means that unless you have special permission to enter, you can only view the graveyard from Route 59. But as history has shown, just passing by in your vehicle may have you encountering the hitchhiker of Union Cemetery.

Community-submitted account. Publication does not constitute independent verification.