Cumberland Public Library

Reviewed by Josh N · Updated August 27, 2026 · How we verify

Exploring the Haunted Halls of Cumberland Public Library

Nestled in the quaint town of Cumberland, Rhode Island, the Cumberland Public Library offers more than just books and quiet reading spaces. This library is steeped in history and mystery, occupying the grounds of a former Trappist monastery, a site with a story as intriguing as any novel on its shelves.

A Monastery’s Legacy

The original monastery was established in 1902 by Cistercian monks from Nova Scotia, who sought a peaceful enclave to practice their strict monastic lifestyle, which included vows of silence and rigorous daily routines of prayer and labor. Over the years, the monastery expanded, adding a church and cloister that now form part of the library’s second floor. However, the serene life of the monks was disrupted dramatically on March 21, 1950, by a catastrophic fire that originated in the Guest House. Fortunately, all 140 monks escaped, although some resorted to leaping from second-story windows. The disaster led the monks to relocate to Spencer, Massachusetts, leaving the monastery buildings to find new purpose.

The Whispering Walls of Cumberland

Today, the Cumberland Public Library is not only a center of learning but also a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts. Reports of supernatural occurrences have woven a web of intrigue around the library. Some visitors and staff have reported unusual phenomena: books that move by themselves, pages that turn as though guided by an invisible hand, and mysterious voices that echo through the halls. Additionally, there are claims of seeing a spectral monk, believed to be one of the former Trappist residents, who silently rearranges books during the night.

The Echoes of Nine Men’s Misery

Further adding to the library’s mystique is its proximity to “Nine Men’s Misery,” a site where nine colonial soldiers were brutally killed in 1676 during King Philip’s War. This location, marked by one of the oldest memorials in the U.S., is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of these soldiers. The proximity of two such haunted sites often leads visitors to wonder if the spiritual unrest at the library might be linked to the tragic history of Nine Men’s Misery.

Visit Cumberland’s Mysterious Library

Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of the paranormal, or just in search of a good book, the Cumberland Public Library offers a unique glimpse into Rhode Island’s past and its ghostly legends. Visitors can explore the library and even take a short walk through the woods to reach the historic and eerie site of Nine Men’s Misery. It’s a perfect outing for anyone looking to experience a little mystery with their literature.

For those fascinated by the supernatural or those simply curious about the rich history of this unique establishment, a visit to the Cumberland Public Library is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Address: 1464 Diamond Hill Road

Ghost Tours Nearby

Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence★ 5.0 (142)from $30Providence Ghost Tours: Phantoms, Poltergeists, & Pestilence★ 4.4 (75)from $26Haunted Boat Tours in Providence★ 4.5 (50)from $40

Affiliate links: BeyondHaunted may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.