This is the “original” Haunted Long Beach, published in 1996. It uncovers the eerie side of Southern California with true tales of phantom aircraft, haunted houses, and spectral encounters aboard the iconic Queen Mary. Blending meticulous research from historical archives with spine-chilling firsthand accounts, this collection brings the supernatural history of Long Beach, California, to life—delighting locals and tourists alike.

How It Started: “In 1995, while serving on the Historical Society of Long Beach’s Publications Committee, I jokingly suggested writing a ghost book inspired by the popular supernatural titles I’d seen in Gettysburg. Having indexed local newspaper reports of unexplained phenomena, I proposed an oral history project collecting firsthand accounts from residents.

To our surprise, the committee loved the idea. We set strict guidelines—every story needed a direct Long Beach link and a primary eyewitness—and put out a call for submissions. The community responded overwhelmingly, and our first edition of 5,000 copies completely sold out.

This is long out of print, but has been updated and new stories added in “Haunted Long Beach 2.” If still interested, the author has a few copies left for $75 each. You can contact her and get an autographed copy.

Art by Rick Ewing.