Under the warm glow of streetlights on 25th Street in Ogden, a rich tapestry of history unfolds, weaving together tales of gangsters and ghosts. Once known as the infamous 2 Bit Street, this area has transformed from a hub of Prohibition-era speakeasies and mob activity into a vibrant community filled with art, dining, and local markets. Yet, whispers of its shadowy past linger, inviting both curiosity and intrigue.

Local lore suggests that even the notorious Al Capone once graced this street, slipping through secret tunnels after a heist at the Bigelow Hotel. Rick Proffer, a local enthusiast of the area’s history, recounts how Capone allegedly arrived by train in the dead of night, executed a daring vault robbery, and vanished without a trace. “Now that’s gangster,” Proffer remarks, highlighting the allure of the stories that echo through the streets.

But the tales don’t end with mobsters. The Ben Lomond Hotel, a historic landmark, is steeped in ghostly encounters. Proffer recalls a personal experience from the 1990s, where he felt an unsettling presence watching him throughout the night, unaware of the hotel’s haunted reputation. “If these buildings could talk, what do you think they’d say?” he muses, hinting at the colorful history that includes 50 brothels once lining the street.

Despite its checkered past, Proffer emphasizes the community spirit that thrives today. “We’ve got barbershops, restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries,” he notes, showcasing the evolution of 25th Street into a lively neighborhood. The old energy of the street, once marked by secrecy and vice, now pulses with creativity and connection.

As visitors stroll through this historic district, they can sense the duality of its identity—where the echoes of gangsters meet the laughter of families enjoying farmers markets. The ghosts of 25th Street may still linger, but they now share the space with a community that celebrates its past while looking forward to a vibrant future.