THE STORY
Reported Haunting
Baltimore's historic Clarence M. Mitchell Jr. Courthouse is said to be haunted by the spirit of former U.S. Chief Justice Roger B. Taney. Judges, attorneys, and courthouse staff have reported sudden intense cold spots and unexplained incidents involving shattered glass.
The Clarence M. Mitchell Jr. Courthouse in downtown Baltimore has long been associated with stories of unexplained activity, particularly in a sixth-floor courtroom connected by legend to former U.S. Chief Justice Roger B. Taney. Circuit Judge Wanda Keyes Heard reportedly described her courtroom as haunted after experiencing a series of unexplained incidents. Among the reported phenomena were sudden cold chills and glass breaking without an obvious cause. Attorney Adam Sean Cohen also described experiencing an intense cold sensation during court proceedings that disturbed him enough to leave the courtroom. The alleged presence has traditionally been identified as Taney, whose name and likeness are prominently displayed within the courthouse. Taney authored the infamous Dred Scott decision and died in 1864. The present courthouse was not completed until 1900, meaning Taney never actually served or appeared in the current building. The haunting therefore remains a courthouse legend associated with his historical presence in Baltimore, his memorialization inside the building, and the unexplained experiences reported by those who work there.