The Curse of Bodie

The Curse of Bodie

Bodie, California is one of the best preserved ghost towns in the American West, but according to legend, you should be careful what you take home with you.

The so called Curse of Bodie claims that anyone who removes something from the town, even something as small as a rock, nail, piece of wood, or broken glass, may be followed by bad luck until the object is returned.

Over the years, people have reportedly mailed stolen souvenirs back to Bodie along with letters describing what happened afterward. Some blame the objects for illnesses, accidents, financial problems, broken relationships, and strings of unexplained bad luck. Many of these returned objects and apology letters have been kept by park staff.

The legend is sometimes called the Bodie Curse or the Curse of the Bodie Ghosts, with the story claiming that the spirits of former residents protect what remains of their town.

Whether the curse is paranormal or simply a powerful piece of Western folklore, the message is pretty simple…

When you visit Bodie, take pictures. Take memories. But leave Bodie exactly where you found it.