Florida is known for its sunny beaches, theme parks, and natural wonders. But there is a darker side to the Sunshine State, where some places are haunted by the ghosts of the past. One such place is a park in Jacksonville, Florida, that locals call the Dead Children’s Playground.
The History of the Park
The park is located on the grounds of the Evergreen Cemetery, the oldest and largest cemetery in Jacksonville. The cemetery was established in 1881 and covers over 100 acres of land. It is the final resting place of many notable figures, such as James Weldon Johnson, Eartha White, and A. Philip Randolph.
The park was built in the 1950s as a way to provide a recreational space for the children of the cemetery workers and visitors. It features a swing set, a slide, a merry-go-round, and a sandbox. The park is surrounded by trees and gravestones, creating a contrast between the living and the dead.
The Hauntings of the Park
According to local legend, the park is haunted by the spirits of children who died tragically or violently. Some of them are said to be the victims of a serial killer who abducted and murdered several children in the 1960s and buried their bodies in the cemetery. Others are said to be the children who died of diseases, accidents, or abuse and were buried in unmarked graves or mass graves.
The paranormal activity in the park is most intense at night, especially between 10 PM and 3 AM. Visitors have reported seeing orbs of light, hearing children’s laughter and cries, feeling cold spots and touches, and witnessing the swings and the merry-go-round move by themselves. Some have even claimed to see the apparitions of children playing or hiding in the park.
The Mystery of the Park
The park has attracted the attention of ghost hunters, thrill seekers, and curious tourists who want to experience the eerie atmosphere and the supernatural phenomena. However, the park is also a source of controversy and debate. Some people believe that the park is a sacred place where the children’s souls can find peace and joy.
They argue that the park should be preserved and respected as a historical and cultural landmark. Others believe that the park is a cursed place where the children’s souls are trapped and tormented. They argue that the park should be demolished and replaced with a memorial or a garden.
The park’s fate is uncertain, as the cemetery authorities have not made any official statement about its status or future. The park is currently open to the public, but access is restricted after dark. Visitors are advised to be cautious and respectful when entering the park, as they may encounter more than they bargained for.
The Conclusion
The Dead Children’s Playground is a park in Florida that locals call the most haunted park in America. It is located on the grounds of the Evergreen Cemetery, where many children are buried. The park is said to be haunted by the spirits of children who died tragically or violently. The park is a place of mystery and controversy, as some people see it as a sanctuary and others see it as a curse. The park is a fascinating and frightening destination for those who are interested in the paranormal and the history of Florida.