Lydia's Bridge

In Guilford County's Jamestown, whispers of an eerie legend have persisted for a century, echoing a tragedy of many urban legends. Here it is said a young woman, called “Lydia”, was returning from a dance when disaster struck. Her date was speeding and lost control of their vehicle, slamming into the bridge. Lydia did not survive the crash, but her spirit, it seems, refused to find rest. This is a story familiar to many, however here in North Carolina, Lydia isn’t just legend, she herself is real. New first-hand research has uncovered the real Lydia — Annie L. Jackson — and the tragic yet true story that shines a new light on the local woman believed to be behind this iconic legend. Hear more about the real Lydia in our First in Fright Traveling Terrors episode.

For those intrigued by the paranormal, visiting Lydia's Bridge at night, especially during inclement weather, is said to increase the chances of an encounter. However, exercise caution, as the area can be desolate and potentially hazardous after dark.