Welcome to Texas Newcomers Beware of Haunted Tales of Abilene

The Spooky Side of Abilene, Texas

People are moving to Texas in record numbers—and Abilene is no exception. You might wonder what’s drawing them in. Of course, we’ve got Dyess Air Force Base, which continues to grow, especially with the new stealth bomber program underway. And let’s not forget the recent $500 billion AI project announced by the President, currently under construction right here in Abilene.

That alone could keep the city buzzing. But there’s more.

Abilene Is Booming

Hendrick Health, our non-profit hospital system, is expanding fast. Texas Tech University is planning to grow its medical education programs in the Key City. The small nuclear reactor near Abilene Christian University is gaining traction, and yes—even the cheese factory by the airport is attracting new faces to the area.

But if you're thinking of moving here, there are some eerie local legends that don't make it into the real estate brochures.

The Black-Eyed Kids Started Here

One of Abilene’s creepiest claims to fame involves a strange encounter that reportedly happened to a local reporter. It was right here that the legend of the Black-Eyed Kids began—those mysterious, ghostly children with pitch-black eyes who knock on doors and ask to come inside. Some say it’s an urban legend. Others… aren’t so sure.

The Lady of the Lake at Fort Phantom

Fort Phantom Hill isn’t just a scenic spot—it’s also home to one of Abilene’s most famous ghosts. The Lady of the Lake is said to haunt the shores, appearing to late-night visitors before vanishing into the mist.

Haunted Hangman’s Bridge

Just north of town in Jones County lies a bridge with a dark history. Local legend has it that a sheriff, his wife, and his deputy were involved in a twisted tale of betrayal and revenge. Some say you can still hear the ropes creak on certain nights.

The Ghost Lights of Anson

One of the strangest stories around involves the Anson Ghost Lights. According to legend, a mother sent her three sons to chop wood with a lantern, telling them to flash it three times if they ran into trouble. That night, she saw the signal. When she ran to them, they had been murdered—and to this day, the light still flashes on quiet, windless nights.

Newcomers, You’ve Been Warned (Sort Of)

To outsiders, Abilene may seem like just another West Texas town. But those of us who live here know better. We’re surrounded by rolling hills and open skies, but we’ve also got more than our fair share of ghost stories. Whether you believe them or not, one thing’s for sure—Abilene has its secrets. And some of them are chilling.