Elizabeth City Ghost Walk

Ghost Walk 2026 Presents:

The Murder of Beautiful
Nell Cropsey

October 9 & 10, 2026, from 5:30-9:30 PM

In its 28th year, the Elizabeth City Historic Ghost Walk marks the 125th anniversary of the murder of Beautiful Nell Cropsey.

Nineteen-year-old Nell disappeared from her waterfront home on the evening of November 20, 1901. Her body was pulled from the Pasquotank River 37 days later. Her murder has never been solved.

Seven sites around Elizabeth City will host the ghosts of Nell Cropsey; her sweetheart, Jim Wilcox, who was accused of her murder; infamous newspaperman W.O. Saunders, who covered Jim’s trial as a young journalist; attorney E.F. Aydlett, who defended Jim Wilcox in his trial; Madam Snell Newman, a psychic who was brought in to find Nell’s body; and Nell’s grieving parents. The town meeting that was held when Nell’s body was recovered will also be recreated.

Ghost Walk Headquarters:

Arts of the Albemarle, 516 E Main Street,
Elizabeth City, NC

Stop here for tickets, souvenirs, and to see the main stage performance!

Tickets are $15 per person and go on sale in September 2026!

Click here to sign up and receive exclusive once a month updates on the homes that will be opened to the public, the ghosts who will tell their stories, and to be notified when tickets go on sale. You can unsubscribe from our professionally managed email list at any time.

FAQs

Is Ghost Walk scary?

No! Ghost Walk is living history and is suitable for all ages.

How do I know where this year’s stops will be?

Get your ticket at one of the designated sellers and they will give you a map!

Do I have to walk the whole tour?

Ghost Walk is very walkable, but you may take advantage of complimentary buses that run the route of the tour.

Will Ghost Walk be cancelled or rescheduled in the case of bad weather?       

No! Ghost Walk goes on rain or shine.   

About the Elizabeth City
Historic Ghost Walk

The Elizabeth City Historic Ghost Walk began in 1997, as a fundraiser for the Elizabeth City Historic Neighborhood Association (ECHNA.) The event differs from many ghost tours in that attendees actually enter the historic homes and buildings featured. There, they meet the “ghost” of someone from Elizabeth City’s past, who regales them with tales of his or her life. Now in its 26th year, Ghost Walk has become a much-anticipated autumn event.



Click here to sign up and receive exclusive updates on the homes that will be opened to the public, the ghosts who will tell their stories, and to be notified when tickets go on sale. You can unsubscribe from our professionally managed email list at any time.


Thank you!
to our 2026 Premier Sponsors

Southern Bank