Bill Sketoe's Hole
Newton, Alabama, United States
Other · local-legend
The Story
Bill Sketoe's story concerns a hole that, according to local tradition, would not stay filled. Sketoe was hanged near the Choctawhatchee River during the Civil War; storytellers say his killers dug beneath his feet when the branch bent too low. For generations, the depression supposedly emptied itself whenever someone filled it. Later flood-control work covered the old spot, while a memorial preserves the story nearby. Accounts disagree about why he was targeted, so the legend should not be used as a settled verdict on his life.
The Hauntings
Bill Sketoe's story concerns a hole that, according to local tradition, would not stay filled. Sketoe was hanged near the Choctawhatchee River during the Civil War; storytellers say his killers dug beneath his feet when the branch bent too low. For generations, the depression supposedly emptied itself whenever someone filled it. Later flood-control work covered the old spot, while a memorial preserves the story nearby. Accounts disagree about why he was targeted, so the legend should not be used as a settled verdict on his life.
A sense of place.
Visitor Experiences
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This future chapter will bring together stories from the PHASM community. An unexpected encounter, a lingering feeling, or a quiet visit—your experience will be welcome.
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Sources & further reading.
Plan Your Visit
Seek the public memorial rather than the lost original hole. Riverbank access and exact visitor location require confirmation; avoid floodwater. Current access is unconfirmed.