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The Culpeper County Courthouse

Courthouse
Current Culpeper County Courthouse

The first Culpeper Courthouse was built in 1750 on the northeast corner of Main and Davis Streets. Declared unsafe in 1808, it was rebuilt on the same site. Today’s courthouse, built between 1870-74 at Davis and West Streets (135 W. Cameron St. Culpeper, Virginia), replaced the second one which was torn down in 1871. The courthouse played a key role in Revolutionary War trials and was occupied by both Union and Confederate troops during the Civil War.

Considering the courthouses history of trials, executions, and wartime occupation, it has witnessed numerous intense emotions and tragic events which many believe to be the source of the hauntings and folklore that surround the historic site. Some believe the courthouse is haunted by those that were tried, sentences, and executed on the property throughout the years. Thought to be restless spirits seeking justice or revenge. Other believe Civil War soldiers haunt the halls and grounds surrounding the courthouse as a result of the bloody battles fought between the Union and Confederates to control this area during the war. Another common tale describes a crying woman, possibly a grieving widow or mother of a loved one that was either prisoner sentenced to death or lost in battle. Some claim to hear her sobs echoing through the halls.

*It's important to note that parts of this story are local folklore and are not supported by historical evidence.

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