The Gurdon Light: A Mysterious Phenomenon in Arkansas

Have you ever heard of the Gurdon Light? It is a mysterious light that appears near the railroad tracks in a wooded area of Gurdon, Arkansas. It has been seen by many people over the years, and has been featured in local media and on national TV shows like Unsolved Mysteries and Mysteries at the Museum. But what is the origin and explanation of this strange phenomenon?

The Gurdon Light is described as a white-blue, sometimes orange, glowing light that moves through the trees near the railroad tracks. It is usually visible at night, and some people claim that it changes color, shape, and size. Some people also say that it responds to sound or movement, and that it can chase or follow them.

There are many legends and stories about the Gurdon Light, but one of the most popular ones is that it is the lantern of a railroad worker who was killed on the tracks. According to this legend, the worker was either beheaded by a train or murdered by a coworker in a fight. His head was never found, and his ghost still wanders around with his lantern, looking for it.

Another possible explanation for the Gurdon Light is that it is caused by piezoelectricity. Piezoelectricity is a phenomenon where certain materials, such as quartz crystals, generate electricity and light when they are under stress or pressure. Gurdon sits on a large deposit of quartz crystals and near the New Madrid fault line, which could create piezoelectric sparks in the ground. These sparks could then travel through the air or reflect off the atmosphere, creating the illusion of a floating light.

Whether you believe in ghosts or science, the Gurdon Light is a fascinating and mysterious phenomenon that attracts many curious visitors to Gurdon. If you want to see it for yourself, you can follow these directions: About 75 miles south of Little Rock, down Interstate 30, just east of Interstate 67, pull over at the railroad tracks, and walk down the tracks about two miles, crossing four creek bridges. Alternatively, you can get off I-30 at state road 53 and turn right on a dirt road just before where the tracks cross 53, about half-way from I-30 to downtown Gurdon. Look for an unlabeled spot where the tracks used to cross the road. Be careful and respectful of private property and local laws, and enjoy your adventure!