There are two types of people when it comes to spooky tales. Those who love the thrill of a good scare and those who prefer to stay far from the shadows. If you enjoy the chill of the unknown, you may be curious about a few places in Muskegon County rumored to be haunted.
Pennies Appearing at The Coffee Factory
Before opening The Coffee Factory, owner Sarah had her tarot cards read at a Halloween party. She was told that the new business would bring both joy and sorrow. Five days later, her father passed away on the very day she received the keys to her space.
Since that time, Sarah says pennies constantly appear throughout the café. Believing them to be a sign from her father, she collects the coins in a jar beside a statue of St. Anthony and donates them once the jar fills. Visitors have also described feeling a strong presence when alone in the shop, and some say they’ve heard their name softly spoken.
Photo Illustration by Christopher C. Cordle
Someone Still Watching Over the Frauenthal Theater
Built in 1929, the Frauenthal Theater is a historic gem in downtown Muskegon. It was originally named the Michigan Theater and commissioned by local movie mogul Paul “P.J.” Shlossman. Some believe Shlossman’s spirit still lingers in the place he loved most.
Former staff have reported seeing theater seats move on their own, ropes falling, and doors that open and close unexpectedly. Others have seen a man dressed in black reflected in a mirror or felt a light touch on their shoulder when no one else was near. It has become tradition to say “Goodnight, P.J.” before leaving the theater for the evening.
Continuous Keepers of the White River Light Station
The White River Light Station, built in 1875, is believed to still be watched over by its longtime keeper, William Robinson, and sometimes his wife, Sarah. Robinson tended the light for 47 years, and visitors say he never truly left.
The lighthouse is also featured in “Michigan’s Haunted Lighthouses,” written by Dianna Higgs Stampfler, which shares stories from across the state of lights that may still have keepers watching over them.
Guests and staff have reported hearing footsteps and the tap of a cane along the upper floors. Some believe the couple continues to help care for the light station even now.
Misty and Mystical Mouth Cemetery
Located at the mouth of the White River, Mouth Cemetery dates back to 1837. Many consider it one of Michigan’s oldest and most haunted burial grounds.
Before the area was settled, a Jesuit priest recorded a battle between the Pottawatomi and Neuter tribes. Those who died were buried in unmarked graves. Among those later buried here was William Robinson, the lighthouse keeper. The oldest marked grave dates to 1851, belonging to Christian Merke. The White Lake Historical Society's Barbara Bedau Brow has archived much information about the cemetery here.
Visitors have reported misty shapes, soft cries, and even the figure of a young girl in a white dress. A well-known legend tells of a cursed chair that caused the death of a man who once sat in it. Though the chair is long gone, stories of strange happenings continue.
Today, visitors often leave coins, candles, or small offerings of respect on the graves. The site has transformed from a target of vandalism into a peaceful and respected historic location.
A Haunting at Hackley Library
Opened in 1890, the Hackley Public Library was a gift to the city from Charles Hackley. Its Romanesque design, winding staircase, stained glass, and carved wood make it an ideal setting for ghost stories.
Reports include books falling from shelves, a bearded man in Victorian clothing appearing in mirrors, and whispers in empty rooms.
In 2021, Great Lakes Ghost Hunters of Michigan investigated the library and the nearby Torrent House. They later shared video and audio recordings from their visit in a virtual public program.
Mysteries of Muskegon’s Maritime Museums
Muskegon’s two historic ships, the USS Silversides Submarine Museum and the USS LST 393 Veterans Museum, are both known for their World War II history and their paranormal reputations.
Southern Michigan Paranormals ranked the USS Silversides as the second most haunted place in West Michigan, with the USS LST 393 following closely behind. Overnight investigations aboard both vessels have reported unusual activity and unexplained sounds.
In 2019 Marter Paranormal led an investigation aboard the USS Silversides submarine and museum. One member of the group reported to MLive that there was "lots of activity" and "good evidence"" during their overnight investigation. A video can be viewed on the Mater Paranormal YouTube channel here.
Looking for more spooky tales? Check out the book "Haunted Muskegon" by Marie Cisneros. Marie also has written a number of articles for the series "Paranormal Muskegon" on the Muskegon Channel.
