Muskegon County has plenty of history, and some of its most intriguing stories come with a supernatural twist. From a Lake Michigan lighthouse and a historic theater to a century-old library and World War II ships, several local landmarks have inspired tales of unexplained sounds, mysterious figures and spirits that may still linger.
Whether you're interested in local folklore, historic places or a good ghost story, explore these reported hauntings and the Muskegon County locations behind them. The stories are part of the area's lore, offering another way to discover the region's history.
The Mysterious Pennies at The Coffee Factory
Before opening The Coffee Factory, owner Sarah had her tarot cards read at a Halloween party. She was told that her new business would bring both joy and sorrow. Five days later, her father passed away on the very day she received the keys to her space.
Since then, Sarah says pennies have continued to appear throughout the café. Believing them to be a sign from her father, she collects the coins in a jar beside a statue of St. Anthony and donates them once the jar fills.
Visitors have also described feeling a strong presence when alone in the shop, while some say they have heard their names softly spoken. These accounts have become part of the café's unusual story.
Photo illustration by Christopher C. Cordle
Is P.J. Still at the Frauenthal Theater?
Built in 1929, the Frauenthal Center is one of Muskegon's historic entertainment landmarks. Originally named the Michigan Theater, it was commissioned by local movie mogul Paul “P.J.” Shlossman. According to local lore, Shlossman's spirit may still linger in the theater he helped bring to life.
Former staff members have reportedly seen theater seats move on their own, ropes fall, and doors open or close unexpectedly. Other accounts describe a man dressed in black appearing in a mirror or someone feeling a light touch on their shoulder when no one else was nearby.
One enduring part of the story is the tradition of saying “Goodnight, P.J.” before leaving the theater for the evening.
Ghostly Footsteps at White River Light Station
Built in 1875, the White River Light Station and Museum has a long maritime history and a ghost story of its own. Captain William Robinson served as lighthouse keeper for 47 years, and local accounts suggest he may never have entirely left the station. His wife, Sarah, is sometimes included in the stories.
The lighthouse is featured in Michigan's Haunted Lighthouses by Dianna Higgs Stampfler, a book exploring stories associated with lighthouses throughout the state.
Guests and staff have reportedly heard footsteps and the distinctive tap of a cane along the upper floors. Some believe these unexplained sounds are signs that Captain Robinson continues to make his rounds.
Whether you believe the legend or not, the light station offers a fascinating glimpse into Muskegon County's maritime past.
Legends and History at Mouth Cemetery
Located near the mouth of the White River, Mouth Cemetery is a historic burial ground associated with some of the area's most enduring legends. The cemetery's history and reported paranormal activity have made it a subject of interest for local historians and ghost-story enthusiasts.
The White Lake Area Historical Society has preserved historical information about the cemetery, including research compiled by Barbara Bedau Brow. You can explore its archived cemetery research to learn more about the people and events connected to the site.
Among the stories associated with Mouth Cemetery are reports of misty shapes, soft cries and the figure of a young girl dressed in white. Another well-known legend involves a cursed chair said to have brought misfortune to a person who once sat in it. The chair is long gone, but the story remains part of the cemetery's folklore.
Mouth Cemetery is also associated with Captain William Robinson, the longtime keeper of White River Light Station, who was buried there. The cemetery offers a connection to the region's past beyond its ghost stories.
As with any historic burial ground, visitors should be respectful of graves and memorials, follow posted rules, and avoid disturbing or leaving items at the site.
A Haunting at Hackley Public Library
Opened in 1890, Hackley Public Library was a gift to Muskegon from lumberman Charles Hackley. Its Romanesque architecture, winding staircase, stained glass and carved wood create an atmospheric setting for tales of unexplained happenings.
Reports associated with the library include books falling from shelves, a bearded man in Victorian clothing appearing in mirrors, and whispers heard in empty rooms.
In 2021, Great Lakes Ghost Hunters of Michigan investigated Hackley Public Library and nearby Torrent House. The group later shared video and audio recordings from the investigation during a virtual public program.
The reports remain part of the locations' paranormal lore, adding another layer of mystery to two places with deep roots in Muskegon's history.
Ghost Stories Aboard Muskegon's Historic Ships
Muskegon's two historic vessels, the USS Silversides Submarine Museum and the USS LST 393 Veterans Museum, preserve important chapters of World War II history. Both ships have also been associated with reports of unexplained activity.
Southern Michigan Paranormals ranked the USS Silversides among the most haunted places in West Michigan, with the USS LST 393 also receiving attention. Accounts from paranormal investigations aboard the vessels describe unusual sounds and other unexplained experiences.
In 2019, Marter Paranormal conducted an investigation aboard the USS Silversides. A member of the group later described the experience to MLive as involving “lots of activity” and “good evidence.” These descriptions reflect the investigators' interpretations, rather than verified evidence of paranormal activity.
You can watch a video of the investigation on the Marter Paranormal YouTube channel and read more about the group's work through Marter Paranormal.
The ships' reported hauntings add a supernatural angle to their already compelling military histories.
Want to Read More Haunted Muskegon Stories?
For more local lore, look for Haunted Muskegon by Marie Cisneros. Cisneros has also contributed articles to the Paranormal Muskegon series on Muskegon Channel.
Discover Muskegon County's History
You don't have to believe in ghosts to appreciate the history behind these stories. From historic architecture and maritime landmarks to museums and local folklore, Muskegon County offers plenty of ways to explore the past.
Before visiting a featured location, check its current hours, admission details and access policies. Some locations operate as public attractions or museums, while others should be treated as historic sites rather than places offering paranormal experiences.
Looking for more things to do? Explore the Visit Muskegon events calendar to find seasonal happenings and activities throughout Muskegon County.
