With Halloween approaching, the search for ghost stories often leads to various regions known for their supernatural legends. In contrast, Tehama County, California, appears to have a rather sparse collection of haunting tales. An examination of historical records reveals only a couple of anecdotes, both originating from the county jail in Red Bluff.
In 1861, the *Red Bluff Beacon* reported that inmates described their jail as a “night-walk of ghosts.” These prisoners claimed that the spirit of a murdered individual visited them during their confinement. The newspaper humorously suggested that Sheriff Alpaugh should decorate the jail with old horseshoes and distribute copies of their rival publication, the *Semi-Weekly Independent*, as a means of exorcism if the ghost became troublesome.
Jumping forward to 1901, another report from the *Daily Red Bluff News* highlighted an unusual story involving a young man sentenced to ten days for petty larceny. He claimed to be haunted by a “long-bearded man who sprinkles water on him.” Initially suspecting his cellmates were playing tricks, he moved his bed away to avoid the supposed splashes. Yet, he continued to awaken with water on his face and hands. On two separate nights, he reportedly saw the long-bearded figure standing atop the cells. The apparition warned him, saying, “Damn you! You were in here when I was hung in this jail!” This encounter left the young prisoner so shaken that he informed Deputy Sheriff Egan he would not sleep alone and threatened to escape.
In addition to the jail stories, another curious incident occurred at the office of the *Daily People’s Cause* in 1880. One night, the editor sent a young boy to retrieve writing materials. When he found the front door locked, he attempted to enter through the back door, which was unlocked. However, an unseen force prevented him from entering, causing the door to bang shut with such force that it rattled the building. Terrified, the boy rushed home, claiming the office was haunted. His assertions were dismissed by others, who suggested it was merely the wind or his imagination.
Despite his fear, the boy returned later equipped with a key. As he opened the front door, he was startled when the back door slammed shut once more. This time, he witnessed two figures darting away—one clad in male clothing and the other in female attire. They raced around the building, fled through the front gate, and disappeared up Main Street. The *Cause* speculated whether the boy had startled two ghosts or if they were merely a couple seeking a private moment away from public scrutiny.
Tehama County’s ghost stories may be few, but they offer a glimpse into the local history and folklore that still captivates the imagination. While neighboring counties boast more famous hauntings, Red Bluff’s tales, with their blend of humor and fright, remind us that sometimes the spookiest stories lie closest to home. As Halloween draws near, these legends serve as a testament to the enduring fascination with the supernatural in even the most unlikely places.
