An Event For History
Every October, the streets of downtown Woodbridge come alive with stories from the past, some spooky, some historic, and all unforgettable. The annual Woodbridge Ghost Walk, held this year on Oct. 25, takes visitors on a guided tour through local legends. Blending real history with chilling tales that have been told for generations.
This year marks a new chapter for the event. Once hosted by Haunted History Productions, the Ghost Walk is now run by Lisa Romero, who has taken over as part of a fundraiser for the Woodbridge High School choir.
“The Ghost Walk began about 15 years ago,” said Romero. “This year, we’re putting our own spin to things. Since it’s now a fundraiser for the choir, many choir students will be helping out with the event.”
Participants will stroll through the heart of Woodbridge, stopping at historical sites where actors perform ghostly scenes.
“There are some stories that are told every year, and some are new,” Romero explained. “I tried to choose stories that had to do directly with Woodbridge’s history and also fit the actors’ talents and interests.”
While the stories are meant to entertain, many are rooted in fact. According to the Historical Association of Woodbridge Township,
“Most ghost stories start with a true event or person, but are then embellished as they are passed down and shared. The stories told on the Ghost Walk should be seen as entertainment, but they are spooky because at least part of each story is true.”
The Tale of Edith
One such tale is that of Edith Kelly, the wife of local newspaper publisher Hugh Kelly, who died in her Green Street home in 1922. Her spirit is said to linger still.
“Woodbridge Township is the oldest original township in New Jersey, charted in 1669,” noted the Historical Association. “Many of the legends reflect the pride in our long history or keep the memory of local heroes alive.”
Beyond the scares, Romero hopes the event inspires curiosity about local history.
“I hope visitors are entertained, but I also hope they learn a little bit about what makes Woodbridge so great and interesting,” she said.
The Woodbridge Ghost Walk continues to grow each year, drawing residents and visitors alike. What started as a spooky night out has become a beloved community tradition, one that brings Woodbridge’s haunted history back to life.
“It’s important to preserve history, both facts and legends, so that we understand the vents that shaped our town.”
