Playboys, Grim Reapers and Civil War Ghosts- Oh my! Allegheny Cemetery, Pittsburgh, PA

Allegheny Cemetery is Pittsburgh's largest cemetery, which was built in 1844. Since it opened, many yinzers have made this their final resting place. Some residents even still roam the grounds after death. Here are a few tales from that cemetery. 

Harry K. Thaw

Harry K. Thaw was the son of William Thaw Sr., an industrialist. He was notorious for his temper and scandals. He also had a bizarre obsession with architect Stanford White. Harry believed Stanford was responsible for getting kicked out of exclusive clubs and not the fact that his behavior was the cause. One example of him being arrogant involved riding up the steps of a society on horseback while burning dollar bills with cigars. Basically, a spoiled rich brat. 

In 1906, Harry K. fatally shot Stanford White after he found out about an alleged incident that had happened between him and his then-wife, Evelyn Nesbit, when they dated a few years back. 

Ultimately, he was found not guilty by reason of insanity. He and Evelyn divorced in 1915.

Harry’s scandals would continue till he passed in 1947. He was buried in Allegheny Cemetery.

Ghost stories emerge of a shadowy figure wandering around the grave. Believers of the paranormal believe it to be Harry, still drowning in the obsession with his old nemesis. 

Grim Reaper

Another strange phenomenon in the cemetery is that people have claimed to see a hooded figure around the cemetery. They claim it to be the Grim Reaper himself. When he is around the air turns cold and a sense of impending doom fills the air. 

Civil War Ghosts

Galloping of horses is also heard. These are believed to be spirits of Civil War Soldiers from the Union who lost their lives still fighting in purgatory. This is said to happen more so around Memorial Day. 

Are there ghosts and a grim reaper, or is it just spooky sensationalism?