Built Over an Old Cemetery? The Hauntings of Olivet College

What is it about old colleges that instigate rumors of hauntings? Is it the year of construction, the old architecture, the haunting looks on the faces of students as depicted in those old class photos from eighty+ years ago? Whatever the reason, there are plenty of colleges in our state that have some kind of haunted legend.

And here’s just one of ‘em.....Olivet College.

Olivet College was founded in 1844 by Reverend John J.  Shipherd with support from 39 of his followers. They set up a coeducational college at this site, in the belief that God had directed them. The goal was to open a Christian school to provide education to anyone regardless of sex, race, or financial status. It got its college charter in 1859.

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As far as hauntings: there have been countless sightings of apparitions passing through walls and inanimate objects moving by themselves.
The place most reported to be haunted on campus is Shepard's Hall.
Dorm residents claim they’ve heard “phantom” music in other dorm rooms that were empty.

Also, someone playing piano can be heard in the Conservatory when nobody’s there. Dole Hall reportedly was built over an old cemetery, causing several paranormal occurrences; evidently, several bodies were left behind when they were moving the cemetery to a different location. The basement laundry room is especially eerie if you’re down there by yourself doing laundry; the strong feeling of being watched from the dark shadows is extremely prevalent.

Going back over 150 years, the legends of the hauntings at Olivet College continue...with new ones popping up from time to time.

I think a visit is due.