Old State Bank

Investigations

Apr 22

Written By Ashley Kirkland

Along the Tennessee River Valley, sits the charming city of Decatur, AL. Here, you will find a location that houses a colorful history and is said to be a hotspot for paranormal activity. On March 2nd, 2024, the Tuscaloosa Paranormal Research Group conducted a paranormal investigation at Old State Bank.

History

Built in 1833 to function as a bank, it closed its doors in 1842. Later, it was purchased as a family home. Then, the Civil War erupted. This building was one of only four in Decatur that were left standing by Union soldiers. The Union gained control of the area, and it is believed that Confederate prisoners were held on the second floor, while the main floor served as a hospital for wounded soldiers. After the war, it was bought by a medical physician who resided there and conducted medical practices. It later became a boarding house and café. It’s also believed that during this time, a murder took place on the property. It has also served as a saloon, both legal and illegal. Now, it stands as a museum, preserving not only its past but also the spirits who remain dwelling within these walls.

Spirits of Old State Bank

The Vault is an area in the bank believed to house the spirit of a man, territorial and protective of the money once stored there. Many visitors are reluctant to enter or go near the vault due to the uneasy feeling it gives them. Paranormal investigation groups, such as ours, have documented possible findings of a child spirit that likes to play in the vault. EVP’s, Electronic Voice Phenomenon, of a child’s voice has been captured singing and laughing with a playful tone on audio recording devices.

The Woman in Blue: Not much is known about this spirit, other than reports of her ghostly image being seen by onlookers peering from the second-floor window. A woman wearing a time-period dress has manifested on occasion and is even said to have thrown a tea set at employees.

The Woman in Black, or the Weeping Woman: She has been seen and heard on the first floor, believed to be a grieving mother who received word of her two sons’ demise at the bank. It’s not that she had anything to do with the bank other than receiving some of the most devastating news of her life there. She is also known to make an appearance when guests take selfies in the downstairs mirror.