Union Cemetery

Union Cemetery

Overview

Union Cemetery in New Washington, Ohio, is known locally for a legend surrounding a particular tombstone that bears the photograph of a woman. According to folklore, the image is said to exhibit supernatural behavior during late-night visits, making this cemetery a site of interest in local ghost lore.

Location

• Address: Unknown
• City/County: New Washington, Crawford County, Ohio
• Public Access: Yes

Haunting / Legend Summary

The most well-known legend associated with Union Cemetery involves a specific gravestone that includes a photograph of a woman. Visitors have reported that if one observes the photo late at night, the woman's facial expression appears to change. Additionally, some claim that the necklace in the image visibly moves on its own.

There are no specific times of year most associated with the activity, but reports typically describe late-night visits as when the phenomena occur. The activity is limited to visual anomalies, with no other paranormal claims widely reported.

Historical Background

• Construction date: Unknown
• Original purpose: Public cemetery
• Notable events: N/A
• Key timeline moments: N/A

Reported Phenomena

• Apparitions: N/A
• Cold Spots: N/A
• Voices/EVPs: N/A
• Physical Touches: N/A
• Object Movement: Necklace on tombstone photo is said to move
• Malfunctions: N/A
• Poltergeist Activity: N/A
• Shadow Figures: N/A
• Time Anomalies: N/A

Skepticism & Alternative Explanations

• The changes in facial expression may be attributed to pareidolia, the tendency of human perception to interpret random images or patterns as meaningful—particularly faces.
• Movement of the necklace may be an optical illusion caused by varying light sources, shadows, or atmospheric conditions at night.
• There is no documented photographic or video evidence to support the claims.

Visitor Information

• Visiting Hours: Typically dawn to dusk (standard for most public cemeteries)
• Fees or Costs: N/A
• Contact Info: Unknown
• Warnings/Restrictions: Visitors should respect cemetery property and any posted hours or local ordinances regarding nighttime access.

Citations / References

• Local oral tradition and folklore from New Washington, Ohio
• Paranormal claims reported in community ghost story collections