The Heceta Head Lighthouse, located in Florence, Oregon, has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1894. Over the years, it has been the site of many shipwrecks, including the tragic wreck of the Peter Iredale in 1906. The lighthouse was in operation until 1963 when it was decommissioned by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Despite being decommissioned, the lighthouse and surrounding area continue to be a popular destination for visitors due to its stunning natural beauty and rich history. However, some visitors have reported encountering paranormal activity while visiting the lighthouse. The most well-known ghost at the Heceta Head Lighthouse is said to be that of a former lighthouse keeper’s wife, known as Rue. She reportedly haunts the lighthouse to this day, making her presence known to guests and staff alike.
Rue’s story is a tragic one. According to local legend, she fell ill and died in the lighthouse in the early 1900s while her husband was out tending to his duties. Some believe that her ghost lingers in the lighthouse to this day, unable to leave her former home. Rue has been known to move objects, turn lights on and off, and make eerie noises that cannot be explained.
In addition to Rue’s ghost, visitors have also reported encountering the ghost of a sailor who died in a shipwreck off the coast of Heceta Head. The sailor is said to appear as a ghostly figure, wandering the grounds of the lighthouse and searching for his lost shipmates.
While some may be skeptical of the paranormal activity reported at the Heceta Head Lighthouse, the stories have persisted for many years. In fact, the lighthouse was featured on an episode of the popular television show “Ghost Hunters” in 2008. During their investigation, the team reported capturing several pieces of evidence that they believed supported the claims of paranormal activity at the site.
Despite the presence of ghosts, the Heceta Head Lighthouse remains a popular destination for visitors to Oregon. It is now a bed and breakfast, offering guests the opportunity to stay in the historic lighthouse and experience its rich history firsthand. Whether or not one believes in the paranormal activity reported at the site, the lighthouse is an important piece of Oregon’s history and a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the supernatural.