The Story of Indiana’s Haunted “Cinderella Grave” Will Give You Chills

The Real Story Behind Cinderella’s Grave

Yes, this story really is about Cinderella’s grave – but don’t expect glass slippers or a pumpkin carriage. This “Cinderella” isn’t from a fairy tale. It’s a real piece of Indiana history that’s both fascinating and a little bit eerie.

The Mysterious Cinderella of Portland, Indiana

Tucked away in Finch Cemetery near Portland, Indiana, lies the grave of a child named Cinderella Steed. That’s right – Cinderella. But here’s where things get interesting: some sources claim Cinderella was a young boy who passed away in 1859, while others say the child was a girl, the daughter of John and Elithea Steed. The headstone seems to support the daughter theory, but even so, it leaves plenty of room for mystery.

A Spelling Mystery in Stone

If you look closely at the headstone, you’ll notice something unusual – the name isn’t spelled “Cinderella” at all. It’s “Cinderlla” – missing that second “e.” Was it a simple typo from the 1800s, or was that actually how the name was meant to be spelled? Nobody really knows. A big thanks goes to Michael Calvert, who shared a photo of the gravestone on the Abandoned and Forgotten Indiana Facebook page and pointed out this curious detail.

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One of Indiana’s Most Haunted Spots

Finch Cemetery often shows up on lists of Indiana’s most haunted places. According to HauntedPlaces.org, visitors have reported some seriously spooky happenings. They say if you count 13 gravestones on your way to Cinderella’s grave, you’ll only count 11 on your way back. Creepy, right?

Would You Visit?

Finch Cemetery is reportedly open to visitors, though it’s definitely off the beaten path. Some adventurous YouTubers have explored it, but if you decide to go, it’s best to contact the Jay County Conservation Club first. Personally, I’m intrigued – but also just super glad I can explore this one from behind a computer screen.

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Would you be brave enough to visit the real “Cinderella’s” grave?