The Phantom Hitchhiker

Summary

The Phantom Hitchhiker recounts the tale of Lydia, a ghost who appears on the side of the road near Jamestown underpass, seeking a ride home to High Point, only to vanish upon arrival, a phenomenon that began after her death in a car accident in 1924.

Abstract

The narrative "The Phantom Hitchhiker" tells the story of Lydia, a ghostly figure who has become a local legend in North Carolina. It originates from a book by Nancy Roberts, cherished by a family, and centers around a young man named Burke Hardison, who encountered Lydia on a rainy night in 1924. Lydia, dressed in white, asked for a ride home, only to disappear when they reached her destination. Burke later learned from Lydia's mother that Lydia had died in a car crash at the same location where she was picked up. Despite her tragic death, Lydia's presence lingers, with her bridge becoming a site of interest for those hoping to catch a glimpse of her spirit or to pay their respects. The state has even considered repurposing the bridge as a pedestrian overpass due to the number of visitors.

Opinions

The author of the article seems to hold the story of Lydia in high regard, suggesting it is a cherished tale passed down through generations.
There is an implied belief in the paranormal, as the story is presented as a true occurrence rather than a mere folktale.
The story reflects a sense of mystery and intrigue associated with ghost stories and supernatural legends.
The author conveys a sense of respect for Lydia's story, noting the impact it has had on the local community and the attention it receives from visitors.
There is an indication of the enduring nature of such legends, as Lydia's story continues to draw interest many years after the reported events.

Lydia is still looking for a ride home

As a kid, my dad used to read to us from his copy of An Illustrated Guide to Ghosts and Mysterious Occurrences in the Old North State by Nancy Roberts. This was one of his favorite books and it became ours too. Our favorite story was of Lydia, the ghost hitchhiker.

Going Home

The story begins in 1924 when a young man named Burke Hardison was on his way home from NC State University to visit his parents. It was late at night and had been raining, so the roads were slick and reflective but he knew the road well since he had driven the route many times.

He was also quite tired since it was well past midnight. As he neared the curve that ran under the Jamestown underpass, he saw a figure in white on the side of the road. She was waving him down for help.

Burke got out of the car and asked her what was wrong. She said she needed a ride to High Point.

She got into the car and as they rode toward her home, he asked her questions about why she was there. She would only reply in whispers.

Burke drove her to the address she had given and when he got out of the car to walk her to the door, she had vanished. He thought perhaps she had gotten out and quickly ran inside.

Confused, Burke knocked on the door. An older woman answered. Burke explained his story and asked if Lydia was inside. As it turns out, it was one the woman had heard several times.

Lydia’s Bridge

Today the bridge is still there, but not in use for vehicle traffic. So many people still visit in hopes to see Lydia or pay homage to her, that the state considered making it a pedestrian overpass. However, the train still travels above it and people still claim to see Lydia on misty nights.

The Phantom Hitchhiker

Lydia is still looking for a ride home

Going Home

Never Coming Home

Lydia’s Bridge