It seems that every train station has some ghostly tale attached to it. The Bristol train station in Virginia was built in 1856, and the structure survived the Civil War and was rebuilt stronger than ever.
William Tompkins, known as “Big Will,” was a frequent visitor to the 72 brothels across the city. His wife, Emma, didn’t take to kindly to “Big Will’s” lifestyle and devised a plan to leave him.
Emma had had enough and packed her bags while Will was out. In early May 1887, Emma grabbed her bags one morning and headed towards the train station, with one destination in mind: Radford, Virginia. Will came home to an empty house, realizing it was over, and also left for the station out of desperation and concern.
There on the platform, “Big Will” confronted Emma as the train was approaching. A tussle broke out that ended tragically. The train’s deafening roar couldn’t drown out Emma’s screams as they fell onto the tracks, killing both instantly.
Since that day, the old train station has been haunted by Emma’s tormented cries that you can still hear today.
Written By: John G. Clark Jr.