If you love exploring all things abandoned and haunted in Ohio, you may have heard about a “Witches Tower” hiding in a forest near Dayton, Ohio. (Or even a “Frankenstein’s Tower.”)

The true story behind this curious structure has changed over time—and it actually has nothing to do with witches or Frankenstein. More commonly known as the Stone Tower in Hills and Dales MetroPark, this castle-like structure in Kettering has been the subject of numerous urban legends throughout the years. And while it’s certainly not a “Witches Tower,” it does have a deadly history that makes many visitors believe it is indeed haunted.

Just off of Patterson Boulevard, you'll find this eerie tower hiding among trees and looking a little out of place.
Ted/Flickr
(It's not hard to see why some might believe it to be haunted.)
One local legend claims that the tower was built during the Civil War and that a woman plunged to her death from the top of the tower after hearing the news of her husband’s death.
Ted/Flickr
However, the tower was actually built in the 1940s and this legend doesn't hold true.

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Another popular legend claims that a group of teenagers sought shelter in the tower during a storm and they were all struck by lightning and killed.
rounjo/Flickr
(And this legend is actually closest to the tower's true history.) The real story involves the tragic death of Peggy Harmeson. In May of 1967, 16-year-old Peggy and her boyfriend sought shelter in the tower during a storm. Lightning struck the tower, killing Peggy and leaving her boyfriend badly burned.
Reports indicated that there was once a metal gate at the opening of the door, which is likely where the lightning struck.
Ted/Flickr
Today, the tower is sealed up tight and venturing inside is prohibited.

For a closer look at the tower and the story behind Peggy’s death, watch the short video below:

 

What do you think of this story? Have you ever explored this tower before? If so, share your thoughts and experiences with us.

For more hikes to abandoned places in Ohio, check out our previous article: The Awesome Hike In Ohio That Will Take You Straight To An Abandoned Castle.

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