The Denver Botanic Gardens, a serene oasis of flora, harbors a chilling past as the former Mount Prospect Cemetery. With approximately 2,000 unmarked graves beneath its lush landscape, the gardens are a hotbed of paranormal activity. Visitors and staff report ghostly apparitions, unexplained sounds, and eerie sensations, making it one of Denver’s most haunted locations. The gardens’ transformation from a burial ground to a botanical haven has left lingering spirits, creating a unique blend of natural beauty and supernatural intrigue.
What Lies Beneath the Denver Botanic Gardens?
The Denver Botanic Gardens’ haunted history stems from its origins as Mount Prospect Cemetery, also known as “Boot Hill” or “The Boneyard.” This 19th-century burial ground was home to outcasts, outlaws, and victims of diseases like smallpox. In the 1890s, the cemetery was repurposed to create Cheesman Park and later, the Denver Botanic Gardens. However, the hasty and often disrespectful removal of bodies left many graves undisturbed, setting the stage for paranormal activity.
How Did the Cemetery Become a Garden?
- 1859: Mount Prospect Cemetery established
- 1890: City orders the removal of bodies
- 1893: Controversial body removal process begins
- 1907: Cheesman Park officially opens
- 1951: Denver Botanic Gardens founded on part of the former cemetery land
The transition from cemetery to garden was fraught with controversy. Undertaker E.P. McGovern, tasked with relocating the bodies, was accused of dismembering corpses to fit them into smaller caskets, maximizing his profits. This disrespectful treatment of the dead is believed to have contributed to the restless spirits that now haunt the gardens.
What Paranormal Activities Have Been Reported?
Visitors and staff at the Denver Botanic Gardens have reported a wide range of supernatural experiences:
- Misty figures floating along pathways
- Unexplained sounds, including whispers and moans
- Strange scents, such as cigars and out-of-season lilacs
- Ghostly touches and physical sensations
- Electronic malfunctions, particularly in the Waring House
- Apparitions reflected in mirrors
Where Are the Most Haunted Spots in the Gardens?
| Location | Reported Paranormal Activity |
|---|---|
| Waring House | Ghostly touches, mirror apparitions, electronic disturbances |
| Water Gardens | Floating apparitions, including a woman in a lace nightgown |
| Main Pathways | Misty figures, unexplained sounds |
| Former Grave Sites | Feelings of sadness, confusion, and unease |
How Can Visitors Experience the Haunted History?
The Denver Botanic Gardens offers a unique way to explore its eerie past through the “Ghosts in the Gardens Tour.” This self-guided experience allows participants to delve into the supernatural side of the gardens.
What Does the Ghosts in the Gardens Tour Offer?
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Schedule: Typically held in October, with multiple time slots between 5:30-10:30 p.m.
- Cost:
- Members: $29
- Non-members: $34
- Age Restriction: Participants must be 12 years or older
- Activities:
- Stroll through dimly lit garden paths
- Listen to storytellers share real staff encounters
- Learn about the history of the former cemetery
- Optional visit to the Waring House for exclusive paranormal insights
During these tours, participants have reported various unexplained phenomena, adding to the gardens’ reputation as a paranormal hotspot.
What Historical Figures Haunt the Gardens?
Several notable figures from Denver’s past are said to haunt the gardens:
- John Stoefel: Hanged for murder, his restless spirit is believed to roam the grounds.
- Jack O’Neill: A gambler who met a violent end, now said to haunt his former burial site.
- Smallpox Victims: The spirits of those who died in the on-site smallpox hospital are thought to linger.
These historical figures, along with countless unnamed souls, contribute to the rich tapestry of supernatural activity in the gardens.
How Has the Haunted History Affected the Gardens’ Operations?
The Denver Botanic Gardens has embraced its haunted history, incorporating it into educational and entertainment offerings:
- Annual ghost tours during the Halloween season
- Increased interest from paranormal investigators and ghost hunters
- Enhanced historical interpretation of the site’s past
- Unique marketing opportunities to attract visitors interested in the supernatural
However, the gardens maintain a respectful balance, ensuring that the primary focus remains on botanical education and conservation.
What Precautions Should Visitors Take When Exploring the Haunted Areas?
For those interested in experiencing the haunted aspects of the Denver Botanic Gardens, consider the following:
- Respect the grounds and potential spiritual residents
- Follow all guidelines set by the gardens, especially during ghost tours
- Be prepared for potential emotional or psychological impacts
- Avoid provoking or disrespecting any perceived spirits
- Report any unusual experiences to staff for documentation
By approaching the haunted history with respect and openness, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex past of this beautiful botanical sanctuary.
The Denver Botanic Gardens’ haunted history adds a layer of intrigue to its already captivating landscape. As visitors stroll through the lush gardens, they walk atop centuries of history, where the lines between the natural world and the supernatural blur. Whether one believes in ghosts or not, the eerie tales and unexplained phenomena contribute to the unique character of this Denver landmark, making it a must-visit destination for both botanical enthusiasts and paranormal seekers alike.
References:
1. https://dbg.org/haunted-gardens/
2. https://patch.com/colorado/denver/haunted-denver-ghost-cemetery-under-botanic-gardens-spooks-visitors
3. http://ruhighlander.org/home/2023/10/31/ghosts-in-the-garden