Ole Miss Halloween: Ghostly Encounters and Campus History

As Halloween approaches, the historic campus of the University of Mississippi, commonly known as Ole Miss, offers a unique blend of history and tradition. On October 31, 2025, former Assistant Director of the Ole Miss Career Center, Steve Stricker, recounted a haunting experience that took place in the Lyceum, the university’s oldest building. This encounter not only reflects the eerie atmosphere of the season but also the profound history embedded within the campus.

Stricker, who spent many late nights working in the unrestored Lyceum, shared his memories of a particularly chilling Halloween. He began his evening by walking through the crisp autumn air, admiring the stunning Tiffany-stained glass windows of Ventress Hall. These windows commemorate the University Grays, a unit made up almost entirely of Ole Miss students who fought in the Civil War. The Grays faced devastating losses at the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863, suffering nearly 100 percent casualties. Stricker reflected on the heavy toll of the Civil War, which claimed the lives of approximately 260,000 Union and 258,000 Confederate soldiers.

As the sun set, the atmosphere changed. A cold breeze rustled through the leaves, and Stricker was struck by the sight of a large, orange harvest moon rising in the east. Halloween, or All Hallows Eve, is traditionally believed to be a time when spirits of the deceased revisit the earth. This cultural significance was not lost on Stricker as he entered the empty Lyceum, where his footsteps echoed ominously against the historical walls.

After hours of solitude in the once-bustling building, Stricker fell asleep at his desk. He awoke to the sounds of music, laughter, and voices—an unsettling experience that prompted him to prepare for a hasty exit. Yet, a calm voice urged him to remain still. To his astonishment, two figures appeared before him: a Confederate officer and a Union officer, both dressed in full regalia. They revealed themselves as spirits of soldiers who had perished in battles, specifically during the time when the Lyceum served as a hospital for the wounded.

The officers conveyed a powerful message, sharing images of soldiers, families, and friends enjoying a peaceful day in the Grove, a cherished gathering place on campus. They emphasized the futility of war, declaring it as “the devil’s work” and urging Stricker to advocate for peace through prayer and good deeds. As the vision faded, Stricker was left in a state of stunned tranquility.

Emerging from the Lyceum, Stricker found the world outside transformed. The full moon illuminated the campus, and the clock struck 12:01 AM—marking the beginning of All Saints’ Day. It was a poignant reminder of the connection between the living and the dead, as well as the enduring legacy of those who once walked the same grounds.

This Halloween narrative not only highlights the rich history of Ole Miss but also serves as an invitation to reflect on the past. In a world often marked by conflict, Stricker’s experience underscores the importance of remembrance and the call for peace during a season that celebrates both life and death.