Editing Blanchard Cholera Cemetery

[[File:Putnam.jpg]]

= '''Blanchard Cholera Cemetery''' =

== Overview ==
The Blanchard Cholera Cemetery, located along State Route 224 near [[Gilboa]] in Putnam County, Ohio, is associated with the cholera epidemics of the mid-19th century. Local legends claim the cemetery is haunted, particularly by the spirits of children who perished during the outbreaks. Unexplained voices, laughter, and crying have been reported by visitors to the site.

== Location ==
* '''Address:''' Near intersection of State Route 224 and Road 5F
* '''City/County:''' [[Blanchard]] / [[Putnam County]]
* '''Public Access:''' Yes

== Haunting / Legend Summary ==
The cemetery is reportedly haunted by the spirits of children who died during the 1849 and 1852 cholera epidemics. Witnesses have claimed to hear disembodied voices, as well as the distinct sounds of children's laughter and crying, particularly during late evening hours. The phenomenon is localized to the burial site and is often referred to in local lore as “Children of the Grave.”

== Historical Background ==
* '''Construction date:''' Unknown
* '''Original purpose:''' Burial site for victims of the cholera epidemic
* '''Notable events:'''
** Mass burials related to the cholera epidemics in 1849 and 1852
** A high number of interments involve children
* '''Key timeline moments:'''
** 1849 – First major cholera outbreak
** 1852 – Second wave of the epidemic results in additional deaths and burials

== Reported Phenomena ==
* '''Apparitions:''' N/A
* '''Cold Spots:''' N/A
* '''Voices/EVPs:''' Disembodied voices have been reported
* '''Physical Touches:''' N/A
* '''Object Movement:''' N/A
* '''Malfunctions:''' N/A
* '''Poltergeist Activity:''' N/A
* '''Shadow Figures:''' N/A
* '''Time Anomalies:''' N/A

== Skepticism & Alternative Explanations ==
It is possible that the sounds attributed to ghosts—particularly children's laughter and crying—could be misinterpretations of natural environmental noises such as animal calls, wind, or distant voices echoing across open terrain. The emotional impact of visiting a cemetery filled primarily with children's graves may also heighten sensitivity to sound and influence perception. The legend may have been reinforced by local folklore, particularly after mentions in regional publications and books on Ohio hauntings.

== Visitor Information ==
* '''Visiting Hours:''' Daylight hours recommended
* '''Fees or Costs:''' N/A
* '''Contact Info:''' Unknown
* '''Warnings/Restrictions:''' Visitors should be respectful of the graves and local property regulations

== Citations / References ==
* Chris Woodyard, ''Haunted Ohio IV''
* Dave Westrick, "The Legend of Restless John and Other Ghost Stories", ''Putnam County Sentinel'', 29 Oct. 1980
* Dave Westrick, "Spirits of the Past Abound in Franconia Cemetery", ''Putnam County Sentinel'', 28 Oct. 1981

[[Category:Legend]]
[[Category:Voices/EVPs]]