Second Salem - Whitewater Wisconsin

Badgerland Journal

Whitewater Wisconsin is known as the Second Salem. There are plenty of ghost stories to back up its name, but this episode dives into not only the legend and lore surrounding this city, but the historical roots of these stories. Plus we threw in a little bit of historical murder and mayhem. It is after all spooky season. Be sure to let me know what other spooky stories you want to hear during the month of October.

You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, or send an email [e-mail]

Sources:

Godfrey, Linda S. Haunted Wisconsin: Ghosts and Strange Phenomena of the Badger State. Guilford, CT: Globe Pequot, 2021.

Krulos, Tea. Wisconsin Legends & Lore. Charleston, SC: The History Press, 2020.

Mentz, Sara. “Whitewater Witches – Local Folklore and Legends.” Paranormal Investigation, October 23, 2020. https://blogs.uww.edu/paranormalinvestigation/2020/10/23/whitewater-witches-local-folklore-and-legends/.

The Poison Widow of Whitewater: Mystery, Mayhem, and Murder. YouTube. UWW Continuing Education, 2022. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qT38XhbFMAk.

“Religions - Spiritualism: History of Modern Spiritualism.” BBC, October 28, 2009. https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/spiritualism/history/history.shtml.

Zukas, Keith. “What Makes Whitewater the ‘Second Salem.’” Royal Purple, October 29, 2013. https://royalpurplenews.com/11881/lifestyle/what-makes-whitewater-the-second-salem/.

Zukas, Keith. “Witches of Whitewater: The Truth Behind the Legend.” Royal Purple, October 29, 2013. https://royalpurplenews.com/11879/lifestyle/witches-of-whitewater-the-truth-behind-the-legend/.