After the release of the first Hunger Games movie, thousands of people traveled to Henry River Mill Village to get a glimpse at the real ghost town behind District 12. While Henry River attracted travelers and tourists, many locals have stayed far away from the eerie ghost town, and even after the Hunger Games, still choose to do so. Are you brave enough to explore this spooky abandoned town in North Carolina? Why is Henry River Mill Village abandoned?

At the start of the industrial revolution, mill towns sprung up everywhere across the state, many in the western region. One of those, in particular, was Henry River.
Flickr / Richard Hefner
This North Carolina ghost town is hauntingly beautiful.
The mill opened in 1905, and over time, more than 20 buildings developed to support the residents, the majority of whom worked at the mill.
Flickr / Richard Hefner
In 1973, the mill shut down, and it wasn't until 1987 that the last resident left and the town was left abandoned.
Until the village was put in the limelight by The Hunger Games, it remained abandoned, with many people visiting to get their own experience.
Upstateherd/Wikimedia Commons
Oddly enough, the entire town was owned by the late Wade Shepard, (although after the movie he put it up for sale for $1.4 million).



It really wasn't until Henry River became District 12 that people came forward about their paranormal experiences in the town. Is Henry River Mill Village haunted? Strangely enough...all the stories were similar, although the storytellers were complete strangers.

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This chilling destination is one of the most haunted abandoned cities in North Carolina.
Upstateherd/Wikimedia Commons
The majority of the stories occur late at night. The main one that circulates around involves visitors having something thrown at them from the first house they pass when entering the village. It's usually a small object, like a rock or stick, but nevertheless, the house has been locked up since the residents left...so who is throwing things?
The tales will send chills down your spine.
Upstateherd/Wikimedia Commons
Another, and almost more terrifying story, involves a dirt path in the town. If you walk down the asphalt road through the town, on the right side you will find a dirt path that leads down to the dam and riverside. Those who have walked down the road have heard several men talking to each other. While the conversation is indistinct, it's still audible. Sources claim it's the three original mill owners speaking to each other. While many would run, others have stayed to address the paranormal. Some people have even called the police about this occurrence.
Pay a visit to this North Carolina ghost town, and you may just experience the paranormal for yourself.
Flickr / Brian Leon
There's something certainly terrifying about any abandoned town. The energy left by the inhabitants, and maybe the souls of some who never truly left. No photographic evidence has been captured here, but a walk through Henry River on a dark night is something few would agree to do.

There’s certainly something terrifying about Henry River, especially after reading these stories about one of the creepy places in North Carolina. Why is Henry River Mill Village abandoned? Perhaps it’s related to these tales! Have you had any spooky encounters here? Share your tales in the comments below!

Want to learn more about abandoned cities in North Carolina? The stories behind these seven ghost towns are truly grim.

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More to Explore

Abandoned Town in North Carolina

Elisa Regulski | November 24, 2019

Are there any ghost towns in North Carolina?

Mortimer is a truly spooky North Carolina ghost town. This area was once a booming mill city, but it quickly fell into ruin when a giant flood swept through the area. Today, all that remains are dilapidated buildings and an eerie atmosphere. Venture to Caldwell County and experience it for yourself… if you dare. Brunswick Town is another fascinating North Carolina ghost town. It’s not as scary as some of the others, and many people use the magnificent ruins as a backdrop to romantic weddings. Bring your camera and soak up the history!

What’s the most haunted place in North Carolina?

There’s a truly chilling destination located near Silver City called The Devil’s Tramping Ground. This 40-diameter circle is completely devoid of life, and the tale surrounding this terrifying destination will keep you up at night. If you’re feeling brave, you can pitch a tent and camp here. But be warned -- these stories are not for the faint of heart.  Learn more about this haunted North Carolina place by reading our feature article here.

What’s the scariest North Carolina ghost story?

The scariest North Carolina ghost story takes place at what was once called Payne Road. Today, it’s called Edward’s Road, but it still has lingering visitors from the past. Travelers have reported seeing the ghosts of murder victims staring at cars as they drive by. Legend has it, the spirits were involved in a horrifying murder-suicide that ended with a young man being burned alive. To learn more about these nightmarish tales, read our feature article here.

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