Unveiling Adelaide Gaol’s Terrifying Ghostly Secrets

Adelaide Gaol, a historical landmark with a dark and haunted past, holds within its walls a tapestry of spine-chilling ghost stories that have intrigued visitors for years. The gaol, dating back to 1841, served as a correctional facility for over a century before its closure in 1988. Gary Joyce, the manager of Visitor and Commercial Services at the gaol, shared with us some of the eerie tales that have been passed down through generations.

One of the most notorious spirits said to haunt the gaol is that of William Baker Ashton, the gaol’s inaugural governor. Ashton, a man known for his kindness towards prisoners, met a peculiar end when his oversized body had to be maneuvered out of the building through a window upon his death in 1854. Numerous reports of phantom footsteps and knocking have been attributed to Ashton’s ghost, suggesting his presence still lingers within the gaol’s walls.

Gary recounted a hair-raising incident involving Frederick Carr, an executed prisoner whose ghost allegedly roams the premises. During a charity sleepover, former AFL player Chris McDermott experienced unexplained phenomena, including doors swinging open on their own and an inexplicable urge to whistle incessantly – behaviors associated with Carr’s spirit.

The gaol’s dark history also includes tales of Ben Ellis, the executioner, and Elizabeth Woolcock, the only female inmate to face the gallows. These stories, along with many others, contribute to the mystique surrounding Adelaide Gaol. The surge in interest in ghost tours and paranormal activities has led to a significant increase in visitation to the site, with the Halloween event being a standout attraction.

Visitors to the gaol can choose from a variety of tours, ranging from historical explorations to ghostly encounters in the dimly lit corridors. The gaol, preserved in its original state with minimal modern alterations, offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of prison life in the 19th and 20th centuries. The absence of modern amenities like toilets in the cells serves as a stark reminder of the gaol’s grim past.

Since its transition from a functioning prison to a tourist attraction in 1989, Adelaide Gaol has become a hub for history enthusiasts, ghost hunters, and curious visitors alike. The stories of restless spirits and tragic fates that permeate the gaol’s atmosphere continue to captivate all who dare to explore its haunted halls. Whether seeking a brush with the supernatural or a lesson in history, Adelaide Gaol promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture within its haunted confines.