THE TRAGIC STORY BEHIND DEAD WOMAN'S CROSSING

WEATHERFORD — Because we strongly believe in giving credit where it's due, we want to recognize historian Sue Woolf Brenner, whose article, "Dead Woman's Crossing: The Legacy of a Territorial Murder," is an absolutely amazing resource on this case. It's available through the Oklahoma Historical Society - Gateway to Oklahoma History, and it provides one of the most detailed accounts of Katie James' disappearance, the investigation, and the mystery that has surrounded the crossing for more than a century. So, if you're into Oklahoma history, we can't recommend Brenner's article enough. 10/10 chef's kiss.

We will do our best to give y'all a summarized version of her research in our own words, but we really encourage you to read the full article for yourselves. It's incredibly well researched, and there is absolutely no way we could do it justice in a single post. But most importantly, we hope you really do take the time to read it because Sue Woolf Brenner's work deserves all the recognition.

According to historian Sue Woolf Brenner’s research, the story centers on Katie DeWitt James, a 29-year-old mother who left home by train with her infant daughter after filing for divorce.

When Katie failed to arrive at her destination or contact her family, her father hired detective Sam Bartell to help find her. Brenner writes that Bartell’s investigation eventually led him to Weatherford, where he learned Katie had last been seen leaving in a buggy with a woman named Fannie Norton. According to Brenner’s research, Norton later returned alone without Katie.

Brenner also reports that Bartell discovered what was believed to be blood on Norton’s buggy and questioned her about Katie’s disappearance. Norton reportedly told investigators that Katie had left with another wagon. Before investigators could learn more, Brenner states that Norton reportedly died after taking poison.

Nearly two months later, Katie’s remains were discovered near Deer Creek. According to Brenner, historical records indicate that a coroner’s jury ultimately concluded that Fannie Norton was responsible for Katie James’ death.

We'll share a link to Brenner's article in the comments below so y'all can read it for yourselves. It's well worth the time, trust us on this.

That being said, we've also heard plenty of stories over the years that Dead Woman's Crossing is reportedly haunted. People have shared accounts of seeing what they believe is Katie's ghost, hearing the cries of a woman calling out for her baby, and experiencing other unexplained or seemingly paranormal activity near the bridge. As to whether there's any truth behind those stories, we'll let y'all be the judge.

Now it's y'all's turn. Have you ever been to Dead Woman's Crossing? Do you believe it's haunted, or do you think the stories are simply part of Oklahoma folklore? We'd love to hear your experiences and family stories in the comments.

Special Research Credit: Historian Sue Woolf Brenner for her outstanding research and article, "Dead Woman's Crossing: The Legacy of a Territorial Murder," published through the Oklahoma Historical Society - Gateway to Oklahoma History. Link to Brenner's article will be in the comments below.

Source: Brenner, Sue Woolf. Dead Woman's Crossing: The Legacy of a Territorial Murder, article, Autumn 1982; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. (https://gateway.okhistory.org/ark:/67531/metadc2031437/: accessed July 8, 2026), The Gateway to Oklahoma History, https://gateway.okhistory.org; crediting Oklahoma Historical Society.