The Legend of the "Purple Lady"

The legend of a ghostly apparition with a purple aura continues to haunt the Rio Grande Depot.

Tales are of a jilted woman who jumped in front of a passing train trying to retrieve a ring thrown by her lover. Her presence is most felt in the spacious marble walls and high ceilings of the women's restroom. Customers of the Rio Grande Cafe often tell of an "eerie" feeling when using the facility. Once a construction crew reported they could always hear singing coming from inside.

On other occasions, security guards from the Utah State Historical Society have heard footsteps on the mezzanine and found no one when they went to look. Also, in the middle of the night the State Capitol security received a call from the depot elevator phone and no one was on the other end, but they thought they heard footsteps walking away.

She continues to display her presence every now and again through slamming doors, dropping dishes, moving objects, and other strange occurrences. Of course, that well-known "eerie" feeling also occurs on various occasions to let everyone know she is still alive and well!