The dangerous Nolichucky River that runs through Erwin has an infamous reputations for making people disappear under its dark, dangerous waters. Many report seeing specters floating across its cool surface, and a hunter is seen on its banks. The notable parts of this river are:
On your way to Bumpass Cove Cemetery, there is a stretch of shore along the road called the “Devil’s Run.” The locals avoid it even to this day, and those who live near it still hear something hooved running along the riverbanks. Long ago, three men were determined to find out what exactly was making such a racket. On Saturday night at ten o’clock, they went to the shore and laid rope out on the ground so that on cue, it would pull tight and snare the phantom rider. Something did in fact ride by, but was unscathed by the ropes. Confused, the men examined the ground below their feet and found under a brush goat-sized, cloven hooves. But there was something odd about the prints, as if whatever spirit had made them was walking on two legs instead of four. Realizing what had just passed, the men fled, and to this day not many are willing to talk about the story.
Not too far away, in the back of the Erwin Fish Hatchery which is now a wonderful park complete with a swimming pool and picnic area, there is a similar story. One night employee Guard Banner quit his job, upset with the management, and began walking a path near the rail road tracks. He heard what sounded like a runaway horse. Following the sounds, he came to a wooden gate, then turned and ran. The “horse” had apparently, by the looks of the tracks, walked right through the gate. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
The Erwin National Fish Hatchery was established in 1897 with the cost of just over $1,000. In 1903, the superintendent of the Hatchery lived in the beautiful Victorian home that is now Heritage Home Museum. Rocking chairs on the front porch often rock on their own, and doors open and close of their own volition.
