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!

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