Garland, TX – Spooky season is here, and an eerie tradition has resurfaced in Garland, brought to the Gazette’s attention by Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Chris Ott. He recounted a haunting experience from his youth.
“In the fall of 1985, a group of teenage boys headed to the cemetery to lay to rest a rumor,” Ott shared. “We were told that the grounds of the Smiley family grave were haunted and that spirits were restless. Us three intrepid souls went on a discovery and what we found was unexpected. On that cool fall evening, gathered at the site, you could feel your hair raise with alertness. There was a static in the air, and if you listened very carefully, it was as if you were being visited from beyond. Forty years have passed and I’ve never returned at night.”
The Smiley family holds a tragic place in Garland’s history, having been among the victims of the devastating tornado that struck the area on May 9, 1927. This deadly event resulted in the loss of 34 lives, including the members of the Smiley family. Their graves, located near the intersection of Highway 66 and Centerville, have since become a focal point for local ghost stories.
Throughout the 1960s to the 1980s, it became a rite of passage for local teenagers to challenge one another to lay on the ground by the Smiley graves, claiming that ghostly sounds could be heard emanating from the earth. These eerie tales of restless spirits have been passed down through generations, adding an element of intrigue and solemnity to the area.
Ott’s recollection of his youthful adventure and the continued lore surrounding the Smiley graves serve as a reminder of the intertwining of history, tragedy, and folklore in our community. As Halloween nears, the cemetery stands as a testament to the past, inviting curiosity and prompting reflection among those who visit.
For those interested in exploring more of Garland’s haunted history, consider joining the Good Samaritans of Garland for their Ghost Tour on Saturday, October 25, from 5 PM to 9 PM. This event promises a night full of chilling tales and community spirit, all while supporting a worthy cause. Tickets are available here.
