Looking for your next ghost-hunting adventure? Nestled in the quiet woods of Ada Township, Michigan, lies a cemetery cloaked in mystery and eerie legend — Findlay Cemetery, the supposed haunting ground of the infamous Ada Witch. This scenic yet spine-chilling spot is a magnet for paranormal investigators, ghost enthusiasts, and thrill-seeking travelers alike. The tale of the Ada Witch (Findlay Cemetery) has been passed down through generations, evolving into one of Michigan’s most enduring ghost stories. Rich in folklore and haunted lore, the cemetery offers more than just a peaceful resting place — it may also be home to restless spirits still playing out a centuries-old tragedy under the moonlight. If you’re into eerie energy, spine-tingling stories, and a dose of Midwestern mystery, keep reading. This is your go-to guide to one of Michigan’s most haunted legends.
The History
The Story Behind the Ada Witch
The legend of the Ada Witch is one steeped in folklore, half-truths, and chilling speculation. Set in the 1800s, the tale starts with a woman who was suspected of witchcraft — not an unfamiliar trope in American history. In this version, however, the woman was supposedly having an affair while her husband was away. According to legend, once he discovered her betrayal, a violent confrontation ensued. The jealous husband murdered his wife — possibly out in the woods or somewhere near their home. In a tragic twist, he then either took his own life or was killed in the struggle.
Though there are no official records to confirm the story, this tragedy allegedly unfolded near Findlay Cemetery, now famously associated with the haunting. The woman, never named in the lore, is simply known as the Ada Witch — her sorrowful spirit said to linger within the cemetery and surrounding forest. The lack of a concrete identity has only fueled speculation and curiosity through the years.
Findlay Cemetery: More Than a Burial Ground
Findlay Cemetery, located in the rural stretches of Ada Township near Grand Rapids, dates back to the 1800s. Although relatively small in size, the cemetery is one of Kent County’s oldest burial sites. With weather-worn gravestones and moss-covered trees that seem to whisper secrets, the ambiance alone is enough to stir the imagination. It’s a setting straight out of a ghost story, so serious paranormal enthusiasts take the place seriously — even if local historical societies have their doubts about the legend’s authenticity.
Today, the site is maintained but retains an old-world charm that enhances its haunted appeal. Whether or not the tombstones house any victims of the tale, or whether the Ada Witch is even buried there, remains a mystery. But it is this very uncertainty that makes the legend all the more powerful — and the destination all the more compelling.
The Haunt
The Ada Witch (Findlay Cemetery) story doesn’t end with whispers from the past. Numerous visitors, paranormal teams, and even curious teenagers have shared startling stories of ghostly encounters in and around the cemetery.
Paranormal Activity at Findlay Cemetery
- Apparitions: The most reported sighting is a misty, female figure — believed to be the Ada Witch herself — seen wandering the gravestones or the surrounding woods. She often appears in semi-transparent form or as a light orb around dusk to midnight.
- Cold Spots and Electrical Disturbances: Countless visitors have felt sudden temperature drops and malfunctioning electronics such as phones, cameras, and EVP recorders — a staple occurrence in haunted areas.
- Disembodied Sounds: Strange sounds like weeping, footsteps circling visitors, and even distant angry shouting (presumably between the accused woman and her enraged husband) have been reported frequently, especially during the fall months when the veil is said to be thinnest.
- Physical Sensations: Some visitors claim to have been pushed or scratched when walking deeper into the woods near the cemetery — signs often associated with poltergeist activity.
Local Testimonies and Ghost Hunts
Several local paranormal groups have visited Findlay Cemetery and reported high EMF readings, voice phenomena during EVP sessions, and unexplained anomalies in photos. A few investigators have even conducted overnight vigils — though be warned, the cemetery is technically closed after dark, and local police do patrol the area for trespassers.
However, during legal hours, many have successfully captured what they believe to be proof of the Ada Witch’s restless presence — including shadowy figures darting between headstones and audio files with ghostly whispers. Even skeptics have admitted to feeling an unshakable presence while on-site.
Tip for Paranormal Investigators: For the best results, visit during twilight or early morning mist. Always bring a trustworthy EMF reader, a voice recorder, and a buddy. Even if you don’t see the Ada Witch herself, the ambiance alone will make your visit unnerving and unforgettable.
Conclusion: A Must-Visit for Ghost Hunters
Whether you’re a seasoned paranormal investigator or a curious traveler with a passion for haunted history, Findlay Cemetery is a hauntingly intriguing destination. The legend of the Ada Witch has captivated imaginations for generations, and stepping foot near her alleged haunt is like walking into a living (or undead) legend. With its atmospheric setting and long-standing ghost stories, Findlay Cemetery deserves a spot on any ghost hunt road trip itinerary.
While the historical evidence behind the tale is thin, the sheer number of ghost sightings and eerie energies reported at the site make this one of Michigan’s most famed supernatural landmarks. So pack your gear, keep your wits about you, and always respect the space — alive or otherwise — because sometimes, local folklore isn’t just tall tales. Sometimes… it’s real.
Are you brave enough to walk with the Ada Witch under a moonlit Michigan sky?