Take a Tour of Oklahoma’s Haunted Civil War Fort and Cemetery!

The Sooner State has more than its fair share of haunted places and ghost stories. It seems no matter where you go in Oklahoma there are terrifying tales, urban legends, hauntings, and horrifying histories of just about every place you may visit. If you're into ghost hunting and the paranormal, we've got you covered in OK!

A look inside of what's left of the original Fort Washita in Durant, OK.

Speaking of haunted locations with a lot of history, not to mention supernatural activity, there's Fort Washita in Durant, OK. It was originally built back in 1842 by General Zachary Taylor, yes the same Zachary Taylor who ended up becoming the 12th President of the United States. I told you this place has some history.

Fort Washita was built with the intent of protecting citizens of both the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations from the Plains Indians and keeping the peace in the area. The fort was abandoned as the American Civil War started. The Confederate army took over Fort Washita and used it throughout the war until its end.

Grave marker at the Confederate cemetery on the grounds of Fort Washita

When the Civil War ended the Confederate Army burned the fort down and it's been abandoned ever since. The Oklahoma Historical Society now manages and oversees the historic site and it's open to tour. You can visit the remains of the old fort and the Confederate cemetery that is located on the grounds nearby.

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As you can imagine with that much history there are more than a few ghost stories and rumored hauntings at the fort. One of the most well-known is about a woman named Aunt Jane. Her beheaded spirit has been seen wandering the fort and grounds. A truly terrifying ghost that is not only seen but heard screaming and crying.

The barracks at Fort Washita burned down back in 2010 but the shell remains

Allegedly she was tragically killed by a group of outlaws who were looking to rob her. They wanted her gold but she refused. Not only did they kill her, but they also beheaded and mutilated her body and buried it around Fort Washita. She's been seen walking the grounds by several visitors and investigators at the fort.

Hit play on the video below to learn more about Fort Washita in Durant, OK.

Aunt Jane was also rumored to have possessed a small child back in the late 1900s. The ghost of Aunt Jane continues to be very active and many have seen her. She's just one of the many spirits that have been seen, heard and felt at Fort Washita. Don't forget about the Confederate cemetery that's on the grounds.

It has around 200 soldiers' graves, most are unmarked and unknown. People have reported seeing several ghosts and strange happenings in and around the cemetery. This place is a very active haunt according to those who've made the trip and toured the fort and grounds. The barracks which were rebuilt back in the 1960s also burned down in 2010 but the shell of the building remains near the fort.

Sign marking the Confederate cemetery on the grounds at Fort Washita

The site often hosts tours, Civil War reenactments, and even ghost tours from time to time. Visitors from all over the world come to Fort Washita to experience not only the history but the famous spirits like Aunt Jane. We've heard all kinds of crazy stories through the years of this amazing and historical place!

If you're interested and brave enough you could visit Fort Washita. It's located at 3348 OK-199 in Durant, OK. You can get more information and plan your trip by visiting the official website by clicking here. You can also call (580) 924-6502 or (580) 371-9835 if you have any questions. It's FREE to tour, but donations are welcomed. They also offer group tours if scheduled in advance.

Part of the original structure of Fort Washita in Durant, OK.