 Alabama
Selma - Sturdivant Hall
 |
The History: This mansion was built in 1853 for
Colonel Edward T. Watts and his family as a town residence. It was
later purchased by John Parkman who became President of the First
National Bank of Selma in 1866. After cotton speculation ruined
the bank, Parkman was arrested and was then killed in an attempted
escape. His wife and two daughters sold the house to a local
merchant, Emile Gillman whose family kept the home until it was
purchased by the city in 1957. The house was turned into a city
museum with funds from Daniel Sturdivant's estate (and why it is known
as Sturdivant Hall today).
The Haunting: The young bank President, John Parkman, proclaimed
his innocence and said he would fight to clear his name. Fellow
citizens believed he was honest and helped him break out of jail.
However, either shot or drowned, Parkman died after the attempted
escape. Many believe it is his spirit that haunts the home he was
forced to leave. Parkman likes to move objects around and has even
been seen as a full apparition in 19th century dress. He is a
benign ghost and in general just checks in on the place to see who is
about.
The Viewing: Sturdivant Hall is now a museum which offers
tours highlighting the architecture and furnished setting of a late 19th
century home. The museum also houses a collection of paintings by
Clara Weaver
Parish, famously known for her stained glass at the turn of the 20th
century. The museum itself is open Tues-Sat or by appointment,
click here for more information. To join the Selma haunted
tour which includes Sturdivant Hall among other ghostly sites, take a
look at the
Haunted History Tour in October.
http://sturdivanthall.com
YouTube Video -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=05SVV2fwZmc
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Alaska
Seward - Jesse Lee Home
 |
The History: This site opened as an orphanage
in 1925 for rural children who lost their parents to influenza and
tuberculosis. It closed after suffering damage in the 1964 Good
Friday Earthquake. Today mostly the outer wall shells still stand
for two buildings of the complex. Benny Benson, who designed the
Alaskan state flag grew up here.
The Haunting: There are reports of children's laughter around the
site and the rhythm of a jump rope. There have also been a few
apparitions spotted including a small boy and a priest. However,
the stories that might shed light on the reason for their attachment to
this house are only speculative as they are not identified with
individuals known to have died in the home.
The Viewing: The site is not open to visitors at this time.
An effort is underway to reconstruct the buildings, for more information
click
here.
www.jesseleehome.net
YouTube Video -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=eHCGKZ4Rujw&feature=related
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Arizona
Jerome - Jerome Grand
Hotel
 |
The History: Built in 1926, this building was
originally the United Verde Hospital. The hospital was built to be
fireproof and withstand blasts from the dynamite mining nearby. One of
the best hospitals in the west, it was phased out when the
mining in the area began to slow down and closed by 1950. The building
stood empty until 1994; it had been a time capsule and was unchanged
for 44 years. It is now being restored as a hotel with many of the rooms
already completed and open for guests.
The Haunting: Being a hospital, there were many patients that
perished in its walls. However, there were deaths of two orderlies that
many believed was murder. There is also one recorded suicide.
When the building lay dormant for 44 years, locals claimed they would
still see lights burning in the vacant building. Since being reopened,
more paranormal activities have been noticed. The most common is for guests
to feel temperature drops and hear coughing or labored breathing in
empty rooms or corners of their own guestroom. One ghost is said to be a
woman who died in childbirth. She is upset that her child was buried in
an unmarked grave and prowls the grounds looking for the babe.
The Viewing: You may stay in the hotel today. Room rates begin
at $110 and go up from there. Being the highest point in the Verde
Valley, it offers some great views. And if you're lucky, maybe a glance
at a ghost or two! To spend the night,
click here.
www.jeromegrandhotel.net
www.hauntedhouses.com
www.prairieghosts.com/jerome.html
www.sgha.net/az/jerome/jeromegrand2.html
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Arkansas
Fort Smith - Clayton House
 |
The History: Although built in the 1850s, the
namesake attached to this home, William Henry Harrison Clayton purchased
the home in 1876. By this time Clayton was a US District attorney
who had a reputation for efficiently prosecuting murderers and lawless
scoundrels that were giving Fort Smith a poor reputation.
The Haunting: Clayton may have had a reputation for getting rid
of trouble makers in town while alive, but it seems he is staying around
for a little mischief. Upstairs doors slam and someone in boots
stomps around. There is also a woman who appears downstairs who
may be Clayton's daughter Ann.
The Viewing: Today this museum offers a glimpse at elegant
living in the 1880s with period furniture, landscaping and decor.
For a historic tour and more information please
click
here. If you want more ghost stories, then try the Spirit of
the Past Tour run on Friday evenings, for more information
click here.
www.claytonhousefortsmith.com
http://claytonhouse.art.officelive.com/default.aspx
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California
San Diego - Whaley House
 |
The History: This house was a home, granary, court house, theater, ballroom, billiard
hall, school and polling center. It was also the site where criminals were hanged before the house was built. Once built, it also had the tragic history of one of the Whaley girls committing suicide inside.
The Haunting: There are many ghosts in the Whaley House. There is "Yankee Jim" who was one of the criminals hanged at the site. He now stomps around the house with a heavy step and even the first family, the Whaley's, reported hearing him in the house. Thomas Whaley, the first owner of the house has been seen lingering around the upper landing. Thomas' wife, Anna, also wanders the downstairs and the garden. There are a few other apparitions and even a little fox terrier ghost dog that is seen on occasion!
The Viewing: This house is now a museum and is open for tours on most days. Their website has more details about times and price; click here for details.
www.whaleyhouse.org
www.viewzone.com/whaleyhouse.html
www.hauntedhouses.com
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San Francisco Bay - Alcatraz Island
 |
The History: Not a house per se, but people "lived" there right? Anyway, Alcatraz started as a military fort in 1850. It was used as a military prison and then a federal prison after 1934. In 1963 the prison was closed due to the cost of operations. As a prison, Alcatraz had a reputation of being a hard place to live in which prisoners were there to be shut away rather than rehabilitated. Punishments could be harsh such as restricted diet, solitary confinement, and hard labor. There were the now infamous solitary cells like the "strip cell" and the "hole" that even made the most hardened prisoners think twice about breaking any rules.
The Haunting: This place was creating ghost stories before being shut down. Guards retell odd tales of ghosts attacking inmates or making noises. Today, there are still many haunting "hot spots" on the island. There is the utility corridor where three escapees were gunned down; this doorway is now welded shut but many say there is the sound of clanging against the door; perhaps something wants out... There are also reports of running in the corridors, voices in the cells and medical ward and screams from the dungeons and isolation units.
The Viewing: Tours are available of the island and complex. Depending on the time of year, you may have to use different ferry systems to
access the island. For more information click here.
www.nps.gov/alcatraz/
www.cr.nps.gov/museum/exhibits/alca/
www.alcatrazhistory.com/mainpg.htm
www.prairieghosts.com/gpalcatraz.html
www.legendsofamerica.com/CA-Alcatraz.html
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San Jose -
Winchester Mystery House
|
The History: Sarah Winchester, daughter-in-law of Oliver Winchester, manufacturer of the Winchester rifle, began the construction of this house in 1884 and kept the project going until her death 38 years later. The legend says she constructed the house continuously to confuse the bad spirits of those killed by the Winchester rifle. In the end it had 160 rooms, 47 fireplaces and various oddities such as doors leading to a sudden outside drop or staircases leading to the ceiling.
The Haunting: Some of the ghosts are said to have been invited by Sarah Winchester as she is said to have held a séance with them every night to determine the construction for the next day. Reports of footsteps, doors closing and opening, cold spots, and other paranormal behavior have been reported. However, some skeptics in the ghost hunting world believe the mansion is more of an oddity than a true haunting ground. Guess you'll just have to go to find out for yourself!
The Viewing: The mansion is open to tours today. You can select a standard tour and see 110 rooms and their various oddities and details or you can also do a behind the scenes tour to see how the house functioned. For more information
click here.
www.winchestermysteryhouse.com
www.prairieghosts.com/winchester.html
http://mysteryhouseguide.com/
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Colorado
St Elmo - St Elmo
 |
The History:
St Elmo is a Colorado ghost town that was built in 1878.
Originally called Forest City, this mining town reached 2000 souls at its
peak. Silver, gold, copper and iron ore were all mined in the
area. Starting out moral, it soon degraded to a 'Saturday
Night Hangout' for the over abundance of men in the mining
community. In 1890 a fire destroyed the business section of
town and by 1910 the mines began to close. By 1922 most
everyone had left but the affluent Stark family. They remained
and tried to cash in on tourism still running the hotel and general
store. Finally the post office closed (and therefore the town)
in 1952. The last brother and sister of the Stark family fell
into despair and she was the last of their family to die in 1960.
The Haunting: After the death of the Stark family, a
friend who had remained kind to them inherited their holdings in St
Elmo. When their grandchildren were playing in the hotel, the
doors slammed shut and the temperature radically dropped, they
refused to play there anymore. Another grandchild tried to
take the hotel on as a project. She started to lock away her
cleaning and repair tools because they kept moving. Regardless
of her efforts, the tools still appeared
mysteriously in the middle of the room every morning. Annabelle Stark, the
last of the Stark family to die, is said to keep a lookout for the
the town from the Hotel. A skier said she saw a woman in the
window who was looking off in the distance. When she followed
her gaze she saw snowmobilers in the area. The skier told them
that it was illegal to snowmobile in St Elmo. After they left
the woman in the hotel nodded to the skier and vanished.
The Viewing: St Elmo lies just west of Bueno Vista.
It is considered the best preserved ghost town in Colorado and worth
a stop if you are in the area.
www.ghosttowns.com/states/co/saintelmo.html
www.ghosttowngallery.com/htme/stelmo.htm
www.legendsofamerica.com/CP-StElmo1.html
www.prairieghosts.com/stelmo.html
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Connecticut
New London - Lighthouse Inn
 |
The History: Originally known as Meadow Court,
this home was a summer retreat for Charles Guthrie. Built in 1902,
it was turned into an Inn in 1927. Among such famous guests
as Bette Davis and Joan Crawford was Harry Rodvogin, a resident artist
who lived at the Inn after his old friends Bill and Al Ronnick spotted
him painting portraits on the street. Rodvogin is now
recognized for the paintings he created and you can see his work in the
local museums.
The Haunting: One guest who hasn't left is the spirit of a bride who
died falling down the main stairway on her wedding day. But she is
rather harmless, she hangs out in guestrooms reading a book or walks
around the halls looking a bit forlorn. Strange noises are also
heard around the Inn on occasion but shouldn't disrupt a good nights
sleep.
The Viewing: This Inn is now a resort offering such amenities as
its own private beach and in-room spa services. To make your
reservations, click here.
www.lighthouseinn-ct.com
www.associatedcontent.com/article/682437/
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Delaware
Bethany Beach - The Addy Sea
 |
The History: Built in 1902 by John Addy, this Inn
was originally a family residence. After a wicked storm in 1927,
the house was actually moved further back from the seashore. The
original foundations were used as a BBQ pit and hang out until they were
covered by sand over the years. John Addy was a plumbing
supplier and made the Addy house and his neighbors homes some of the
most efficient and convenient in the area. This made it popular
when it first became a boarding house in 1935. The boarding house
was run by the Addy family until it was sold in 1975.
The Haunting: Room 1 had a haunted copper tub - well, until it went
missing. The original Victorian tub was originally used by the Addy family. During renovations in the 1980s the tub was stored in
a garage but went missing. The thief may have gotten more then
they expected as the bathtub is supposedly haunted and rocks and shakes
violently at times. But no fear, even with the haunted bathtub
gone, there are still specters wandering the halls, random sounds and
footsteps, strange whiffs of perfume and even haunting music all keeping
the place "spiritually" active.
The Viewing: Enjoy the Victorian trappings, walk the beach or sit
on the veranda on a rocking chair - who knows, maybe the empty one next
to you will rock too? To find out more about staying,
click
here.
www.addysea.com/addyseainfo.html
www.addysea.com/history.html
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Florida
Fort Pierce - Boston House
 |
The History: William Turpin Jones worked for
the railroad and after an accident on the job was able to pay for his
home, Cresthaven, in 1909. Jones used the house as collateral
during the depression in an agreement with Irving Whitney.
However, Whitney died and his sister Rose forced the Jones family to
move out in 1932 and renamed the home Boston House. When she died
in 1954 the home was rezoned by the city for commercial use after if
failed to sell as a residence.
The Haunting: There was a tragic shooting accident when
Clifford Jones, then 10 years old, accidently shot his friend, 9 year
old William Fee. However, the ghost sightings revolve around
sightings of women in the window, perfume in the morning and laughter of
the unpleasant kind. There have also been reports of items moving
and cold spots. None of the sightings are clearly related to one
event. Instead see the article by the
Grim Society who reviewed the historical archives and found many of
the tales of ghosts do not match the actual history of the building.
The Viewing: A law firm currently occupies this old residence,
sorry, no tours.
http://thegrimsociety.com/2007/10/14/the-historic-boston-house/
www.examiner.com/paranormal-travel-in-west-palm-beach/
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Georgia
Savannah -
17-Hundred-90 Restaurant & Inn
 |
The History: This inn was actually built in 1820,
not 1790. First a boarding house and later an inn, this home has had
many owners and guests. One of these guests was Anne Powell. The legend
says she was unhappily married at sixteen to an Englishman. She
fell in love with a German sailor who left her "in the family way." She
watched his boat sail away and then committed suicide by jumping from
the window, landing on the brick pavement below.
The Haunting: Anne Powell is the most famous ghost, believed to
haunt guest room 204 from where it is said she jumped to her death. She
doesn't seem to be a menacing spirit: she sits beside the fire, lays out
guests' clothes on the bed or plays pranks on guests waking them up in
wee hours of the morning by setting off the radio alarm. Another ghost
in the basement kitchen and restaurant doesn't like women very much and
likes to shove them around. But this ghost is countered by the ghost of
a merchant marine who will help the staff turn the lights off at
closing.
The Viewing: Savannah ghost tours stop here for a drink but you
can go to the restaurant yourself and have a bite to eat. Or if you
really dare, spend the night instead -
ask for room 204!
www.17hundred90.com
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/ga/17hundred90.cfm
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|
Savannah - Kehoe House
 |
The History: This home was built in 1892 for
William Kehoe and his family. The large family (they had 10 children!)
kept the home until 1930. After that the home became a boarding house,
funeral parlor, and a private residence. In 1992 the home opened as a
B&B, it changed ownership in 2003, but remains an inn with a B&B
atmosphere.
The Haunting: The main tragedy of the house (that we know of) was
the death of the Kehoe twins who died when playing around the chimney.
Children can be heard running the halls and some guests have even had
children check in on them in their rooms. But if you don't see the
children, their mother Annie is reputed to still wander the rooms,
making sure to tuck in all the guests at night!
The Viewing: Why not spend the night? Ask for rooms 201 or 203.
For more information,
click here.
www.kehoehouse.com
www.hauntedhouses.com
www.associatedcontent.com
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Hawaii
Kailua-Kona, Big Island - Hulihe'e Palace
 |
The History: This summer home for Hawaiian
royalty was built by governor John Adams Kuakini in 1838 and was used
until 1914.
The Haunting: Different members of the royal family are
said to haunt this place, both the grand staircase and the grounds.
The ghosts don't mind visitors and generally keep to themselves.
There is also a young boy who has been spotted, but his relation to the
family, if any, is unknown.
The Viewing: The palace became a museum in 1927 and is still
open for limited tours which highlight the Victorian furniture and decor
from the reign of King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani. The gift shop
is also open.
http://huliheepalace.com/index.html
www.gohawaii.com/big-island/regions-neighborhoods/kona/hulihee-palace
http://lovingthebigisland.wordpress.com/2009/11/01/konas-fscinating-history-hulihee-palace/
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Idaho
Boise - Old Idaho Penitentiary
 |
The History: Although not a house, this prison
was the home to many inmates beginning in 1872, two years after construction
began. Many of the buildings on the site were added and built by
the inmates as part of their daily labor. The prison functioned
for 101 years and housed both dangerous men and women.
The Haunting: A fully functioning prison with isolation cells and
a gallows, there are more than a few places to attract negative post
mortem energies. Both the isolation cells and the rose garden
(where the first gallows were located) have cold spots and apparitions.
A death row inmate who committed suicide is also known to haunt the
maximum security prison in a eerie green hue.
The Viewing: The penitentiary buildings now house a
museum run by the Idaho State Historic Society. In addition to a
history of the prison and the inmates, there are also exhibits on
weapons and transportation. For added fun, the penitentiary now
hosts Halloween events, ghost tours and night tours. For more
information,
click here.
http://history.idaho.gov/oldpen.html
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/id/idaho_state_penitentiary.cfm
YouTube Video -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITi8SB39J8E
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Illinois
Bull Valley - George
Stickney House
 |
This
History: George and Sylvia Stickney built this home in 1849.
As spiritualists, they specifically requested the design of the home not
to have square corners. It was believed the square corners could
trap spirits. The family was reputed to have preformed séances
regularly in their upstairs ballroom. Having 12 children, but only
3 that survived, perhaps the need to connect with the lost loved ones
encouraged their continual searches into the beyond.
The Haunting: The police stationed in the home today have shared
stories of paranormal activity. They have heard
footsteps and human voices when alone. Some have seen apparitions
and had objects move on them after they left the room. Other more
dramatic events such as doors opening on their own have also been seen.
The Viewing: The house is registered on the National Registry of
Historic Places. Efforts are underway to restore the home and
eventually offer tours. However, as of today there is not much for
the public to see. To prevent vandalism to the vacated structure,
the Bull Valley Police Department has their headquarters on the lower
floor. Take a look at the video from the Northwest Herald to
see more.
www.prairieghosts.com/stickney.html
http://ssm.nwherald.com/northwest-herald/video/20071030StickneyMansion/stickney-mansion/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Stickney_House
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Equality - Hickory Hill House
 |
The History: This house was built in 1842 by John Crenshaw. Although it was illegal to own slaves in the state of Illinois, it was legal to lease slaves from slave states to work in salt mines. John Crenshaw leased slaves from nearby states to work in his salt mines. It is also said that he would kidnap free blacks and force them to work in his mines and eventually sell them into slavery. All the slaves where kept in the upstairs attic in horse stall-like cells that opened to one large corridor. John Crenshaw had a particularly nasty reputation for cruelty and abuse.
The Haunting: The house opened as a tourist attraction in 1930 and many claimed to hear the rattling of chains and muffled cries from the attic. The home had the reputation that no one could spend the night. In 1978, a reporter named David Rogers was the first to spend a whole night in the house.
The Viewing: Currently the house is protected by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency and closed to the public. A grant was received in late spring 2006, hopefully it will be able to reopen soon!
www.prairieghosts.com/slave.html
www.illinoishistory.com/oshpage.html
www.hauntedhouses.com
http://illinoishistory.blogspot.com/2006/10/old-slave-house-closed-10-years-ago.html
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Indiana
Indianapolis - Hannah House
 |
The History: This home was built by Alexander
Hannah in 1858. Hannah used his basement to house runaway
slaves before the Civil War. After the war he expanded the house
for his new wife, Elizabeth. Four years after his death in 1895
the home was sold to Roman Oehler and the house remains owned by the
Oehler family today.
The Haunting: The legend is that some of the slaves seeking
sanctuary in the cellar perished one night from smoke inhalation and
burns after a lamp fell over. Their bodies were buried in the same
cellar so the underground railroad location would not be discovered.
Today cold spots, shattering glass and moaning can be heard in the
cellar. A few apparitions have also been spotted. Upstairs,
items move, footsteps are heard, doors open on their own and odd odors
permeate the room. Even Hannah and possibly his wife have been
spotted, still watching over the home and its secrets.
The Viewing: The Hannah House is rented for special events and
conferences today. However, overnight ghost packages are available
for both inexperienced enthusiasts and professional ghost hunting teams
alike. For more information,
click here.
www.thehannahmansion.org
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/in/hannah_house.cfm
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Iowa
Bentonsport - Mason House Inn
 |
The History: This hotel was built in 1846 for
steamboat travelers along the Des Moines River. Later, the Mason House
was used as a 'holding hospital' during the Civil War for soldiers being
transferred to Keokuk. It also served as a 'station' along the
underground railroad. Mason House gets its name from the Mason
family who owned the property for 99 years.
The Haunting: Three of the owners have died in the building and
there was also one murder in a guest room. In 1860 poor Mr.
Knapp had been drinking and accidentally went to the wrong room. The
occupant thought he was being robbed and stabbed Mr. Knapp in
self-defense. The home had also been a 'holding hospital' in the Civil
War and some patients may have died in the home. Also a Doctor renting a
room in the 1940s died in the building. All in all, a great hangout for
ghosts. The ghosts come in many forms. There are wisps of fog and cold
spots to actual figures who appear and disappear from sight. There is a
boy that plays tricks; he likes to rustle sheets and tug at guests as
they sleep. There are footsteps, thuds and a woman in white. An
abundance of ghosts and paranormal events for all!
The Viewing: Today you may stay at this B&B for about $80/night
($125 if you are staying in the restored caboose!). Request to stay in
the main house on the 2nd floor (rooms 5 & 7) for the best chance of
paranormal dreams! Ghost Hunting 101 and 102 classes are also available
about twice a year and a Halloween Ghost Walk around Oct 31st. To spend
the night, click
here.
www.masonhouseinn.com
hotels.about.com
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Villisca - Villisca Ax Murder House
|
The History: On June 10, 1912, the Moore family and two overnight guests were brutally murdered. The ax murder of two adults and six children horrified the community and its story still horrifies people today. Regardless of the unprecedented effort of police, detectives and neighboring departments at the time, the case remains unsolved to this day.
The Haunting: The most common account seems to be of children's voices in the house. Things will also move unexpectedly and lamps won't stay lit regardless that there is no breeze in the home.
The Viewing: Tours of the home are available through the Olson Linn Museum. They also offer night tours, but these must be arranged in advance. For current hours
click here.
www.villiscaiowa.com
www.prairieghosts.com/villisca.html
www.villiscamovie.com/emporium.htm
YouTube Video -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=T54lLMJ17kk
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Kansas
Kansas City -
Strawberry Hill Mansion
 |
The History: Architect John G. Braecklein
designed this Queen Ann style home in 1887. Margaret Cruise Scroggs
and John B. Scroggs were the first to occupy the house. Margaret
had surviving children in her previous marriage and her daughter Emma
McFadden and her husband inherited the home in 1915. But in 1919
the home was purchased by Sister Bonaventure and turned into an
orphanage for children who had lost their parents to the influenza
epidemic. The orphanage remained open until 1988 and cared for
over 3000 orphans. The building was then turned into a museum
by the Strawberry Hill Ethnic Cultural Society who still run the
property today.
The Haunting: There is an unknown male ghost who haunts the third
floor and will chase visitors from the ballroom. A Lady in Red
haunts the house but is not associated with the families or the nuns,
instead she is believed to be the spirit of a homeless woman who died
under the nuns' care. Apparently she likes to join in the tours
and ask questions, she usually inquires after the location of the
priest's house. There are other female and child entities around
the house. Sometimes music and footsteps can be heard or the scent
of baby powder will fill the air.
The Viewing: Strawberry Hill is now a museum celebrating Slavic
immigrant history in Kansas City. It offers museum tours and the
Tea Room is open on Saturday and Sunday afternoons and provide a little
taste of the past. For more information and visiting hours,
click here.
www.strawberryhillmuseum.org
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/ks/strawberry_hill.cfm
www.associatedcontent.com/article/379111/
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Kentucky
Louisville - Waverly Hills Sanitarium
 |
The History: Okay,
this is not a house, but since it has such a grand reputation of being haunted, we thought to include it. Waverly Hills opened as a hospital for tuberculosis patients in 1926. Tuberculosis was a dreaded killer of the time and most of the patients who entered would die there. It is estimated that at the height of the epidemic a patient died every hour. This large complex had a long tunnel nicknamed the "body chute" where the bodies were transferred to a train at the bottom of the hill. It was covered so patients would not be disheartened by seeing the number of dead being removed from the hospital. Because Tuberculosis was not well understood, there were many experiments that occurred, some were beneficial and some were more brutal leading to tales of mistreatment and abuse. In 1982, the hospital was shut down under allegations of abuse.
The Haunting: The tales of a haunting started after the hospital was shut down and allowed into disrepair. Transients, vandals and kids would break in. Stories began to spread of small children playing in the halls, lights going on when there was not power, doors being slammed, voices crying out, and various other ghoulish activities. One specific spot, room 502, is on the floor where the mentally ill tuberculosis patients were housed. This room was the nurses station where two nurses committed suicide on separate occasions for reasons unknown.
The Viewing: There are tours run by the Waverly Hills Historical Society. Tours must be arranged as this is a private site and trespassers will be prosecuted. Overnight tours can also be arranged in advance. To find out more
click here.
www.therealwaverlyhills.com
www.prairieghosts.com/waverly_tb.html
http://whsmemorial.tripod.com/
YouTube Video -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Tcl3eRoNUk
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Louisiana
New Orleans -
Magnolia Mansion
 |
The History: This home was built in 1857 by
Alexander Harris. After Alexander died of yellow fever his widow
remarried and sold the home to the Maginnis family. John Maginnis owned
a cotton mill and it was whispered he was struck by lightning because of
the cruel way he treated his employees. In 1939, John's daughter
inherited the home and willed it to the Red Cross. The Red Cross used
the home to train nurses for WWII and the Korean War. In 1954 the home
was again sold into private ownership. Magnolia Mansion was renovated in
2001 and opened as a B&B in 2002.
The Haunting: When renovating the home, the crew had to stop as
an oily substance appeared over the walls. The owner then verbalized her
plans for the place out loud so the ghosts would know exactly what she
was up to. She told them she was improving the home and the ghosts would
not be able to scare the guests away. This appeased them for awhile.
However, ghosts are still reputed to slam doors and snuggle into bed
with guests on occasion. Many guests have photos of orbs and a few extra
faces from their visits as well.
The Viewing: This adult catering B&B offers a great escape to
any non-smoker over 21 years of age. Specializing in romance with
Elopement and Wedding packages, the B&B also has fun with their ghosts
offering a Romantic Ghostly Getaway Package which includes a room,
treats and ghost walking tours. For more information,
click here.
www.magnoliamansion.com
Video -
http://video.msn.com/
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St. Francisville - Myrtles Plantation
|
The History: This home was built by David Bradford
in 1794 but stories of haunting did not start until the 1950's. The
house had a long history with many different owners. There is only one
recorded murder of William Winter in 1871. However, there are many tales
that are told about the home to justify the haunting. Most of these seem
to be fabricated tales, but many say that is just because the house is
so haunted, people needed to make up some kind of explanation.
The Haunting: Among the haunting activity is the ghost of a woman
in a green turban who some believe to be the ghost of a slave killed for
poisoning the head mistress and her two daughters. Others claim this
ghost is not a young slave but an older, unknown woman. There is also a
little girl who has appeared as well as a frustrated piano player who
continuously practices the same cord over and over on the old piano.
The Viewing: You can dine in the restaurant, take a tour or
spend the night. The choice is up to you.
Click here
for more information.
www.myrtlesplantation.com
www.prairieghosts.com/myrtles.html
www.hauntedhouses.com
YouTube Video -
www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIMAXKBOMp8
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Maine
Searsport -
Watchtide
 |
The History: Built in the early 1790s, ownership
transferred to Brigadier General Henry Knox in 1794. He was a
trusted ally to George Washington and was the first Secretary of War for
the U.S. After General Knox sold the property, it went through
many owners, many of them sea captains who were involved in the shipping
industry of the area. The house was an inn starting in 1917 to the
1940s when it then became a private home again. In 1994, the inn
reopened and is still family operated today.
The Haunting: Guests and a previous owner have reported seeing
phantoms in period appropriate dress floating around the home.
There are reports of music heard without a "source."
Footsteps have also been heard. However, the new B&B owner says
there does not seem to be as much activity of late. Perhaps it was
the recent remodel that chased away or appeased the spirits.
The Viewing: Recently renovated, this B&B offers a great
quiet getaway as well as easy access to many of the great sites around
Maine. To make your reservation,
click here.
www.watchtide.com
www.fabuloustravel.com
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Maryland
Frederick - Schifferstadt
 |
The History: This German colonial house was
built in 1758 by Joseph Bruner. Built during the French and Indian
War, the house was made to double as a refuge for colonials in the
country. Originally tenant farmers and recent immigrants from Germany,
the Bruner families and others like them fought to be able to purchase
their land from crooked landlords. They eventually prevailed.
The home would remain a family residence until it was sold to the
Frederick County Landmark Foundation in 1974.
The Haunting: Although apparitions are not reported, the sound of
footsteps and activity can be heard. Interestingly, voices have
been heard in English and, of course, German!
The Viewing: Today the museum highlights early German colonial
life and the experiences during the French and Indian War. The
museum is open on Saturdays or by appointment. Although the museum
hosts special events, most of them are historical and cultural - why not
enjoy
Oktoberfest while peaking for ghosts?
www.frederickcountylandmarksfoundation.org/fclf_schiffgen.html
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/md/schifferstadt.cfm
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Massachusetts
Fall River - Lizzy Borden House
 |
The History: As with so many haunted homes, this
story begins with a murder. On the morning of August 4, 1892, Andrew and
Abby Borden were murdered by ax in their home. Their eldest daughter,
Lizzy, was tried and latter acquitted of the murders. However, she was
ostracized from the community for the rest of her life. Some consider
that she had a split personality, even those close to her recall erratic
and violent behavior. And of course there was the creation of the rhyme:
Lizzie Borden took an ax
Gave her mother forty whacks;
When she saw what she had done
Gave her father forty-one!
The Haunting: There is a strange woman who tucks guests into bed
and perhaps the same woman can be heard weeping in the night. Objects
move on their own and electrical equipment such as lights and cameras
have some interference. Many claim the most active room is Lizzy's old
bedroom - which you can stay in if you want...
The Viewing: The home is now a bed and breakfast. You may spend
the night, take a tour or even spend a weekend at Ghost Hunter
University! To find out more,
click here.
www.lizzie-borden.com
www.hauntedhamilton.com/gotw_lizzieborden.html
www.prairieghosts.com/lizzie.html
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|
Michigan
Marshall - National House Inn
 |
The History: Originally as stage stop between
Detroit and Chicago, this inn was built in 1835 by Colonel Andrew Mann.
The inn continued to serve passengers as a railroad hotel until business
slowed and it was sold and turned into a windmill and wagon factory.
In 1902 the inn was converted into apartments and during prohibition
offered a secret room to buy and consume alcohol. By 1976 the
building was in need of repair and was remodeled into a bed and
breakfast.
The Haunting: This inn is still the home to a lady in red.
Her connection with the place is unknown but she likes to make her
presence known by popping up on the living now and again.
The Viewing: The oldest inn in Michigan still operates today as
a bed and breakfast. Although not promoting their ghosts, they
offer weekend getaway packages as well as a historical home tour.
For more information on spending the night
click here.
www.nationalhouseinn.com
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/mi/national_house_inn.cfm
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Minnesota
St. Paul -
Forepaugh's
Victorian Mansion
 |
The
History: Joseph Forepaugh had the home built in 1870 for his family.
It is rumored he had an affair with one of the servants, Molly, who hung
herself after they broke it off. Joseph later also committed
suicide, rumors stating that it was his loss of Molly driving him into
depression.
The Haunting: Molly is still seen floating about the mansion.
She seems to reside on the 3rd floor but enjoys coming down and checking
out wedding events on occasion. Although Joseph shot himself in a
nearby park, he is said to wander the mansion as well.
The Viewing: Today the home has been renovated and turned into
a nice French restaurant. Weddings are also popular at the mansion. To find
out more, click here.
www.forepaughs.com
www.hauntedhouses.com
www.prairieghosts.com/forep.html
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Mississippi
Natchez -
Monmouth Plantation
 |
The History: Originally built in 1818, the mansion was purchased
by General Quitman, a Mexican War hero, in 1826. The home was
almost burned to the ground during the Civil War when the Union won this
area of Mississippi. However, Quitman's daughters pleaded loyalty
to the Union to save their home (their father was a staunch
secessionist). The house stayed in the family until 1914.
The home then went into disrepair until it was recently restored after
1978.
The Haunting: The General himself stomps around the halls and makes
many feel his presence as guests and staff cannot shake the thought that
someone is staring at them. He also shows up as a specter to let
all know he has an eye on things. Since the new owners have
restored the home to its antebellum decor, there seems to be less
stomping by the imposing General.
The Viewing: Regardless of the haunts, this hotel offers luxury
accommodation and a great escape. To find out more,
click here.
www.monmouthplantation.com
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/ms/monmouth.cfm
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Missouri
St. Louis -
Lemp Mansion
 |
The History: This house was purchased by William
Lemp around 1864 to use as a residence and office for the family
brewery. William's father had used a family recipe/method to create a
lager beer. This beer quickly became popular and William's father
abandoned his grocery store to become a full time brewer. The beer
continued to be made by the family until 1922 when family mishap and
prohibition forced them to shut down and sell for good. The mansion
itself has a sorrowful history with one brother dying under mysterious
circumstances and three other men of the family committing suicide
inside.
The Haunting: With three suicides one can easily guess where the
idea of ghosts haunting the mansion started. However, the families odd
history also adds fuel to the imagination. There is the rumor that
William Lemp had an illegitimate son with Down syndrome who was kept
hidden in the mansion attic his whole life. He is now said to be seen
haunting the mansion and has the nickname "Monkey Face Boy." Tales of
haunting first started after 1949 when the mansion was sold and turned
into a boarding house. Strange knocking and footsteps throughout the
mansion scared the tenants away so the house started to run into
disrepair. In 1975, the mansion was saved and renovated and turned into
a restaurant and inn. All types of sights and sounds have continued and
are still reported today.
The Viewing: Spend the night! Or take a tour if you're too
scared... The mansion is a bed and breakfast that offers tours and a
restaurant to those who don't want to spend the night. They also host a
Halloween Party and Murder Mystery Dinner Theater. To find out more
click
here.
www.lempmansion.com
www.legendsofamerica.com/MO-LempMansion.html
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Montana
Pray -
Chico Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa
 |
The History: In 1894 Percie and Bill Knowles inherited a home
near the hot springs and opened their doors as a boarding house as there
were not any accommodations in the area yet. They built a hotel in
1900. In 1912, Percie teamed with Dr. Townsend and turned the
hotel into a hospital. It would remain a hospital until the 1940s
when it would begin to change hands. In 1974, it was renovated and
again opened as a B&B.
The Haunting: There is a woman in white who likes to wander the
halls and spook the security guards. She also likes room 349 where
she makes sure the rocking chair is always facing the window. Many
think it is Percie making certain everyone is minding their manners and
running her hotel/hospital efficiently.
The Viewing: Relax your spooked nerves in the day spa or natural
hot springs. Or get some more adventure on a trail ride or a dog
sled trek in the winter. To find out more,
click here.
www.chicohotsprings.com
www.chicohotsprings.com/publications/big_sky_ghosts.html
www.spiritsociety.org/report.php?HauntID=65
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Nebraska
Omaha - White House Apartments
 |
The History: Part of the
Little Italy neighborhood, this home was built at the turn of the 20th
century. Before being converted to the apartments it still is
today, this Victorian home was also altered into a hospital for a while.
The Haunting: A woman in white supposedly still lives here and
keeps the new residents company.
The Viewing: These apartments are still listed as low income
housing, a.k.a. private property so enjoy from a distance.
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/ne/white_house_apartments.cfm
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Nevada
Carson City - Abraham Curry House
 |
The History: Abraham Curry was the founder of
Carson City and was involved with everything from the mint to acting as
prison warden. It is convenient then that the sandstone for his
home built around 1869 was quarried by the prisoners. Curry died
shortly after the building was complete.
The Haunting: Curry was not ready to leave the house so recently
built before his death so he has stayed on. He has been seen as a
full apparition and appears to be looking for someone before he
disappears again.
The Viewing: Sorry, not going to happen; this home is now a law
office.
www.nps.gov/nr/travel/nevada/abr.htm
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/nv/abraham_curry_house.cfm
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New Hampshire
Durham -
Three Chimneys Inn
 |
The History: The Three Chimneys Inn was built in 1649 as a
residence for Valentine Hill. The home was used during the
Revolutionary War to house munitions stolen from the British. The
house stayed relatively privately owned and within about four different
families. Extensive renovations were done recently in the 1990s.
The Haunting: It is possible one of the ghosts is that of Hill's
daughter, Hannah, who drowned nearby. Hannah seems to like to hang
out in the dining areas and there is an unidentified gentleman spirit
that hangs out there as well. The spirits here like to play with
electrical equipment - many things just don't work in certain rooms.
Furniture will be heard moving about in guestrooms where no one is
staying. Also, there will be music heard from the dining rooms.
The gentleman has been heard stomping around pacing and one of the
spirits even shattered a water glass in the dining hall while dinner was
being served.
The Viewing: Although built in the 17th century, you won't have to
rough it here. An elegant stay along the coast and you might get
to meet Hannah as well.
Click here for
more information.
www.threechimneysinn.com
www.associatedcontent.com/article/433780/
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New Jersey
Cape May - The Southern Mansion Inn
 |
The History: This home was built for George
Allen in 1863 and would stay in his family for 83 years. A fire in
1979 destroyed many of the southern style mansions in the area; The
Southern Mansion would survive as one of the few reminders of this
connection with the south. In the 1940s the home was sold and
turned into a boarding house. It slowly fell into disrepair until
1994 when Bray and Wildes bought it and began restoration.
The Haunting: The last of the Allen family, Ester Mercur, is
believed to haunt the halls. She is a happy ghost who looks after
the action in the kitchen but is also seen dancing and laughing in
other areas of the home. She also wears heavy perfume. There
seem to be other entities there as well but all generally polite with
the living.
The Viewing: Spend the night! This Bed and Breakfast
offers luxurious accommodations and close access to the beach. The
ghosts here are friendly bunch and might provide a little extra
amusement for your dollar. For more information about staying
click here.
www.southernmansion.com
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/nj/southern_mansion.cfm
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New Mexico
Santa Fe - La Posada Hotel
 |
The History: Abraham Staab built this home
along the Santa Fe Trail in 1882. His wife, Julia, became a
recluse in the home after she lost her seventh child. The Nason
family bought the property in the 1930s and first turned it into a hotel
which it has been ever since. The hotel has enjoyed popularity
with the artistic community and is credited to providing a meeting
ground for the leaders of the Santa Fe Arts Movement.
The Haunting: Julia is still wandering the halls of the home.
She can be a bit bipolar as a ghost; one minute she is running away from
visitors down the hall, the next she is throwing the glasses from the
bar shelves.
The Viewing: La Posada is now a luxury resort offering
everything from weekend getaways to romantic weddings. For
information about spending the night
click here.
http://laposada.rockresorts.com/
www.legendsofamerica.com/nm-laposadahotel.html
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/nm/la_posada.cfm
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New York
Amityville - Amityville
 |
The History:
On November 14, 1974 at 3 AM Ronald DeFeo took a rifle and
systematically shot his parents, two brothers and two sisters.
This is the ghastly beginning of the hauntings in this Amityville home. The fame of this home
spread after the ownership of Lutz family who purchased the home in
1975. They stayed only 28 days before the supernatural pushed
them back out.
The Haunting: At first the Lutz family
noticed cold spots and muffled spots where sound did not carry well.
This they could ignore as unusual but not
necessarily unnatural. However, soon other events began to
happen. Mr. Lutz would hear loud noises or footsteps
downstairs but when he went downstairs, it was quiet and the dog
would be sleeping as if nothing had happened. Mrs. Lutz began to feel
the presence of an older woman and began to show increased aging as
if she was becoming the old woman herself. They then
discovered a small store room painted red that did not appear on the
original house plans. The room had a strong odor that did not
have an identifiable source and the dog was scared of the
room. The mysterious events and depressing feelings of the
house kept adding up until the family decided to break free.
The story of the haunting has been made into movies, but Mr. Lutz
considered these to be exaggerated.
The Viewing: This home is privately owned.
The curious are asked to respect the owner's privacy and not visit the
home. It is NOT open for tours.
www.amityvillehorror.com
www.ghostvillage.com
www.amityvillehorrortruth.com
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North Carolina
Raleigh - Andrew Johnson's House
 |
The History: Andrew Johnson was born in this
small house in 1808. His parents kept the home as employees of the
Casso's Inn; his mother was a weaver and his father a hostler and
janitor.
The Haunting: Instead of a person a candle is seen in the
window and moves from the first to second floor with uncanny speed
before being snuffed out for the night.
The Viewing: Andrew Johnson's house is now part of a larger
park, the Mordecai Historic Park. There are tours Tuesday thru
Sunday or by arrangement for groups. For times and entrance fees,
click here.
http://raleighnc.gov/mordecai
http://ncpedia.org/biography/johnson-andrew
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/nc/andrew_johnson_home.cfm
books.google.com
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North Dakota
Anamoose -
Sage Hill Bed & Breakfast
 |
The History: First opened in 1928 and known as "White School," this
bed and breakfast started history as a primary school. This model
school set an example for the area. It used wind power and offered
students hot meals and warm showers. The teachers and bus drivers
stayed on site. There were two horse barns onsite to house the
horses that pulled the school bus/wagons. At its peak, there were
100 students enrolled. The school closed in 1968 because of lack
of enrollment.
The Haunting: Legend has it that a superintendent and student died
in a fire caused by a coal burning stove. The superintendent
smoked cigars and the smell of cigar smoke still hangs in the air at
times. Objects like to move by themselves around here and lights
and even toilets work on their own.
The Viewing: Sage Hill was recently converted to a bed and
breakfast by the current owners in 1996. Even remodeled, it has
the feel of the old schoolhouse. Want to spend the night? To
find out more,
click here.
http://sagehillnd.com/index.html
http://hauntsofamerica.blogspot.com/2008/01/haunting-of-sage-hill-bed-and-breakfast.html
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Ohio
Cleveland - Franklin Castle
 |
The History: Hannes Tiedemann built this house in 1865. Unfortunately, they lost four children in a short amount of time leading to some speculation of unnatural deaths. The house architecture aids in the mystery of the house as there are secret passageways and hidden rooms throughout. There are also rumors of Tiedemann having affairs that lead to jealousy and, ultimately, to murder. One of the most tragic tales is that of Tiedemann hanging his niece to put her out of misery from her insanity or to punish her for her promiscuity.
The Haunting: Past residents have heard a small child crying and heard footsteps out in the corridor. There is also claim that the tower room
is haunted by the "woman in black" who can be heard choking. Lights also swing around and some objects have been moved or thrown.
The Viewing: Today the mansion houses a private club restricted to members and their guests. It was rumored at one time they would eventually start tours to the building, however, nothing is posted on their website about this yet.
www.franklincastleclub.com
www.prairieghosts.com/oh-frank.html
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Oklahoma
Guthrie - The Stone Lion Inn
 |
The History: F.E. Houghton built this mansion in
1907. It served most of its years as a residence and later was turned
into a funeral home. The only person to die in the home seems to be a
young girl who died of whooping cough after receiving the wrong
medicine.
The Haunting: After turning this mansion into an inn, the new
owners woke up at night to the sounds of footsteps and doors opening and
closing. They called the police but no intruder was found. Soon after
they realized they had their first "guest" who may be a small girl as
she likes to take out the toys at night to play.
The Viewing: Ready for some fun? From a murder mystery night or
perhaps a chance to see a real ghost,
click
here for more information about how to stay.
www.stonelioninn.com
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Oregon
Yachats - Heceta House
 |
The History: This house accompanies a lighthouse on the Oregon coast built in 1894. Many families occupied the house complex over time which included a post office, school and the light house. But it is only the keeper's house that has tales of hauntings. Many believe this is the mother of child who fell off the cliffs back at the turn of the century.
The Haunting: The ghost named Rue is said to be an extra caretaker of the house. She makes it known if she is displeased with any activity in the house. One of the more humorous accounts was of her screaming in the middle of a card game, she didn't want them playing cards in her house!
The Viewing: This house is now a bed and breakfast. It also has guided tours from its interpretive center. Although the current owners don't play up and advertise the ghost they have said guests have told them of strange encounters. To spend the night click here.
www.hauntedhouses.com
www.hecetalighthouse.com
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Pennsylvania
Gettysburg -
Farnsworth House Inn
 |
The History: A house was built here in 1810 and later changed to
brick in 1833. During the Civil War, the Sweeney family lived in
the home and the Confederates used the home as a shelter for their
sharpshooters. The current owners purchased the home in 1972 and
have worked on renovating the home keeping the early 19th century feel
and history.
The Haunting: Many ghosts haunt this home. Including
Confederate soldiers who like to move furniture and stomp around the
attic. Another soldier has been spotted carrying his wounded
comrade to the cellar. He is heard singing to his dying friend as
well. Mary, a midwife, likes to tend to anyone who is sick or
distressed and may sit down on the bed next to anyone who seems to need
the
company. There is a small boy who died in a carriage accident out
front and his grieving father who also haunt the halls.
The Viewing: Whether a Civil War enthusiast who needs a place to
stay or interested in meeting some of the wandering spirits, this inn
will fit the bill. This inn has fun with history providing ghost
stories in their tours and theater shows. To find out more,
click here.
www.farnsworthhouseinn.com
www.scaryplace.com/FarnsworthFacts.html
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/pa/farnsworth_house.cfm
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Rhode Island
Newport -
Belcourt Castle
 |
The
History: This 60 room castle was completed in 1894 as a summer
cottage for Oliver Belmont. This "bachelor pad" had only one
bedroom, no guestrooms and the entire first floor was dedicated to
Oliver's carriage horses and their carriages. Eventually it was
renovated for Oliver's new wife, Alva (formerly Mrs. Vanderbilt)
who enjoyed staying at this home. Belcourt was purchased by the
Tinney family in 1956 who began giving tours in 1957.
The Haunting: Unlike other homes where the house holds the
spirits, it is believed the ghosts at Belcourt Castle come from the
numerous antiques in its' collection. The most famous is "the monk"
who seems to be connected to a 17th century German woodcarving.
This shadowy figure appears next to the carving and then disappears.
The Gothic ballroom contains some of the most haunted artifacts
including possessed chairs!
The Viewing: Belcourt Castle offers a 90 minutes ghost tour for
$18/person. There are also other general tours, candlelight tours
and teas. For more information,
click here.
www.belcourtcastle.org
www.quahog.org/attractions/index.php?id=1031
www.associatedcontent.com
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Newport -
Castle Hill Inn & Resort
 |
The History: The location for Castle Hill originally had a watch
house as early as 1740 when it was used to watch the sea for ships
during the war between Britain and Spain. The Americans used the
same location during the Revolutionary War to bombard British ships as
they passed. In 1874, Alexander Agassiz, an explorer and scientist
settled here to better study the marine life. It was not only his
home but a lab that housed research students as well.
The Haunting: There is a girl spirit here who may have some
connection to the original owner, Agassiz. She throws a bit of a
tantrum now and then and has trashed some of the china on occasion.
The Viewing: This inn offers a luxury escape on the coast. For more information,
click here.
www.castlehillinn.com
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South Carolina
Charleston -
The Battery Carriage House Inn
 |
The History: This house was built in 1843 for Samuel Stevens, a
prominent lender in the area who helped local cotton farms finance their
farms. In 1870, after the Civil War had ended the local wealthy in
Charleston, Col. Lathers (of the Union Army), bought the home and had it
remodeled to the current New York fashion, Second Empire. However,
Col. Lathers was told he wasn't welcome in Charleston and sold the home
in 1874 to Andrew Simonds, the great-great grandfather of the current
owner.
The Haunting: There is a gentleman ghost who may be the son of a
former owner who jumped off the roof to commit suicide. But he is
a gentle ghost and just seems to enjoy the company. There is also
a headless torso who makes many feel threatened by his creepy appearance
and moaning. He might be the ghost a pirate as some were executed
close to the hotel. However it is just as likely he is a soldier
from the Civil War. Some guests report seeing energy orbs or have
electronics turn on when they are really off. Overall it seems
rooms 8 and 10 have the most activity.
The Viewing: The owners of the hotel have not seen any of
the ghosts themselves, but they don't mind if you want to try and catch
a glimpse for yourself.
Click
here to find out more.
www.batterycarriagehouse.com
www.batterycarriagehouse.com/ghosts.htm
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/sc/battery_carriage_house.cfm
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South Dakota
Deadwood - Adams House
 |
The History: This home, built in 1892, came
after Deadwood's colorful mining camp days. Harris and Anna
Franklin had the home built and their family stayed in it until 1920
when it sold to W.E. and Alice Adams. This is the same W.E. Adams
who started the first museum in Deadwood in 1930. His second wife,
Mary, closed the door on Adams House after his death in 1934 and left
everything intact; the house was a time capsule of everything from books
on the shelves to cookies in the cookie jar. In 1987 the home was
remodeled as became a bed and breakfast until it was sold to Deadwood’s
Historic Preservation Commission in 1992.
The Haunting: Of course this home didn't change much when closed
up so W.E. Adams has continued to feel right at home in the afterlife.
Rumors state that his widow heard his ghost walking around before she
decided to leave. Cigar smoke can be smelled on the second floor
and from time to time a tour will see objects move on their own.
The Viewing: Now a museum, you can learn about Deadwood's
history at the same time you peak for spooky apparitions. For more
information on times and cost,
click here.
www.adamsmuseumandhouse.org
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/sd/adams_house.cfm
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Tennessee
Nashville -
The Hermitage
 |
The
History: Andrew Jackson purchased this farm and acreage in 1804 from
his friend Nathaniel Hays. Using slave labor, he turned the 1000
acres into a grand plantation producing cotton, crops for local use and
race horses. From 1829-1837, Andrew Jackson served as the 7th
President of the United States. After serving office he returned
to the Hermitage where he later died and was buried in 1845.
President Jackson's son tried to keep the Hermitage together but in the
end had to start selling portions of the now 1050 acre plantation.
It was considered by the U.S. Congress whether to turn the Hermitage
into an extension of West Point as a military academy. However,
this was not adopted. By 1889 the Hermitage was in disrepair.
The Tennessee Ladies Hermitage Association (LHA) formed and spearheaded
the effort to
save the landmark. They were able to get 25 acres which included
the main mansion and other historic buildings. The other remaining
475 acres were given to the Tennessee Confederate Soldiers' Home and
made into a hospital. When the hospital shut down in 1933, all 500
acres were returned to the LHA. The LHA continued to regain the
land of the Hermitage and bring it under their care and restoration.
Today, 1120 acres are run under the Hermitage as both a Historic
landmark and Wildlife area.
The Haunting: It is said that as the plantation fell into
disrepair, the spirits became angry and restless.
Caretakers refused to spend the night there. The ladies of the LHA
would soon find out why when they decided to rotate staying there until
a watchman could be hired. Loud noises kept them awake at night.
One being of Andrew Jackson himself riding his horse on the stairway.
The kitchen was also a ruckus with pots and pans pounding. In the morning they could see that nothing was disturbed. Other
apparitions that have been seen are of slaves who are still bound in
chains to the property.
The Viewing: Today you can visit this museum which
includes access to the Andrew Jackson Visitor Center, Hermitage Mansion,
and Hermitage Grounds and Gardens. To find out more,
click here.
www.thehermitage.com
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/tn/hermitage.cfm
www.prairieghosts.com/hermitage.html
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Texas
Austin - Driskill Hotel
 |
The History: Jesse Lincoln Driskill opened this
hotel in 1886. The hotel was grand and luxurious, funded by his success
as a cattle baron. In 1888, the family lost its fortune due to drought
and a cold winter that killed most of the cattle. The hotel then changed
from owner to owner with the most recent change of hands in 1995.
The Haunting: Driskill is claimed to still wander the hotel,
puffing cigar smoke while he turns lights on and off. There is the ghost
of a small girl, the daughter of a senator, who was left unattended and fell
to her death while playing with her ball - she can still be heard
bouncing the ball today.
The Viewing: The hotel today offers all
kinds of pampering. To find out more about staying,
click here.
www.driskillhotel.com
www.austinghosttours.com
www.hauntedtexas.com
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Utah
Salt Lake City -
McCune Mansion
 |
The History: This mansion was built in 1900 by a
railroad tycoon named Alfred W. McCune. After leaving for California in
1920, the McCune's donated the mansion to the Latter-Day Saint Church.
It was then turned into the McCune School of Music. It later became a
Brigham Young University Salk Lake City Center and Virginia Tanner
Modern Dance School. In 1999 it was purchased by Phil McCarthy who
worked to restore the mansion and open it as a hotel.
The Haunting: Music is said to still haunt the McCune halls. A
small room under the stairs was used by the McCune's as a stage for
hired musicians. The whole house would be filled with music but their
guests did not know from where it came. It is said this music still
fills the air from here. Other happenings include doors locking that are not fit
with locks, doors opening on their own and lights going on and off on
their own.
The Viewing: You can schedule a tour of the mansion through the
Utah Heritage Foundation. To find out more about spending the night,
click here.
www.mccunemansion.com
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/ut/mccune_mansion.cfm
www.prairieghosts.com/mccune.html
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Vermont
Stowe -
The Green Mountain Inn
 |
The History: This home was built in 1833 by Peter Lovejoy.
The home changed hands and became a hotel in the later 19th century.
Mark Lovejoy purchased the hotel in 1893 and renamed it The Green
Mountain Inn. The inn stayed in service while having many
different owners. In the 1980s massive renovations were done
including the addition of clubhouses and townhouses with luxury suites.
The Haunting: A tap dancer named Boots Berry haunts the third floor
of this inn. Born in 1840, Boots was actually born in the servants
quarters - now hotel room 302. He gained local notoriety after he
stopped spooked horses from running away with the stagecoach.
Boots was treated to one too many drinks and became a bit of an
alcoholic and lost his job at the inn. Boots left the area and, as
legend has it, was arrested in New Orleans where he learned to tap dance
from his cellmate. After a life of a traveling vagrant he returned
penniless. During a winter snow storm a girl was stranded on the
roof of the inn. Since Boots was familiar with the area (right
above the same servants quarters) he found a way to her and helped her
to safety. He however slipped and fell to his death. Now it
is said during winter storms you can hear Boots tap dancing on the third
floor.
The Viewing: There is lot to do in the area and at the inn
itself. Ice cream, chocolate and wine tasting - yes please!
Click here to find out more.
www.greenmountaininn.com
www.greenmountaininn.com/bootsberry.html
www.associatedcontent.com/article/408542/
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Virginia
Yorktown - Moore House
 |
The History: The land was first inhabited by
colonists in the 1630s but the home was likely built in the 1730s when
it, along with 500 acres, was called Temple Farm. Augustine Moor
purchased the property in 1760. During the siege of Yorktown in
1781 he and his family fled the area. In their absence, their home
was used to negotiate the surrender of British troops with General
George Washington. After the Revolutionary War the house changed
hands frequently. During the Civil War it was damaged. In 1881 the
house was refurbished to celebrate the centennial of the British
surrender at Yorktown. In 1931 another round of restoration by the
National Park Service (one of the first of its kind), restored the house
to its former condition.
The Haunting: It seems that Augustine Moore Jr. still sleeps in
the beds and can be also felt following group tours around the house.
There may also be other entities as other areas of the house also show
ruffled sheets or depressed cushions from unseen loungers. Perhaps
these ghosts are just a bit tired.
The Viewing: The Moore House is now part of the Yorktown
Battlefield National Park. You can tour the park for a nominal
fee, for more information
click here.
www.nps.gov/york/historyculture/moore-house.htm
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/va/moore_house.cfm
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Washington
Lakewood -
Thornwood Castle
 |
The History: Thornewood Castle was built for
Chester Thorne, a successful founder of the Port of Tacoma. This
Tudor/Gothic estate was completed in 1911. Inspired by the estates in
Britain, the stained glass windows were even imported from a castle in
Europe. The castle has many different imports that add to the structure and
contents of the building. One of the more interesting aspects is the
"wishbone sticks" left by the Native American workers who helped in the
construction. These sticks help to ward off evil and are found at the
foundation in the basement.
The Haunting: There are multiple photographs taken of orbs
throughout the castle and reports of objects moving on their own. Tape
recorders have picked up voices, one of an unknown child. One child did
drown in the lake and is said to haunt its shore, perhaps they visit the
house as well? Overall, the spirits at Thornwood seem to be a good
natured sort. There is not a violent history attached to this home.
Although the wife of Mr. Thorne is said to haunt the halls, this is more
because she likes the place rather than she is out to get anyone. In
fact, some believe Thornwood Castle acts as a vortex and can attract
ghosts from the other side. Some guests have reported making contact
with loved ones from their lives who have no connection with the castle.
The Viewing: You may stay in the castle as it is now a B&B.
There are Candle Light Tours: for $100 and the cost of a room you can
spend the night exploring the haunted halls with a small group of ghost
hunters. To spend the night,
click here.
www.thornewoodcastle.com
www.legendsofamerica.com/WA-ThornewoodCastle.html
www.prairieghosts.com/rosered.html
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Washington, D.C.
The White House
 |
The History: The White House became the home to our presidents in 1800 with President John Adams being the first resident. There have been many presidents and first ladies in the home and some have decided not to leave...
The Haunting: President Abraham Lincoln is the most popular ghost with the most sightings. The first to see him was First Lady, Grace Coolidge. He has also been spotted by guards and guests. Other presidents that like to make an appearance are President Benjamin Harrison, President Andrew Johnson, President John Tyler and President Andrew Jackson. First Ladies that have made appearances include Abigail Adams and Dorothea Madison. There is also the apparition of a black cat which has been said to be seen before national tragedies such as the stock market crash of 1929 and before the assassination of President Kennedy in 1963.
The Viewing: Of course you can still visit the White House today. For information about tours or for a virtual tour, click here.
www.whitehouse.gov
http://paranormal.about.com/library/weekly/aa022100a.htm
http://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/ghosts/
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West Virginia
Harpers Ferry
 |
The History: Known mostly for its connection
with John Brown and his failed slave rebellion, this town offers a
unique look at 19th century history. In 1799 a US Arsenal and
Armory factory was built here and industry grew in the area. In
1859 John Brown tried to seize the arsenal to arm slaves and begin a
revolution for their freedom. His raid failed and he was found guilty of
treason. During the Civil War (between 1861-1865) the town
suffered from its strategic location and changed hand between the North
and South eight times. In 1867 Storer College was started here
with the mission to educate freed slaves but was also open to any
student of both genders. However, segregation later etched away at
the school's initial universal intent.
The Haunting: Despite the fact that many park volunteers dress in
period garb, park employees, volunteers and guests have also seen 19th
century dressed apparitions around the town. Considering his
violent end, John Brown has been seen around town and in the Kennedy
Farmhouse (his old headquarters) and appears rather friendly and smiles
at visitors on the street. However, there are some sad spirits in
this war scarred town. A unknown man in the National Park Service
Guest House glares at visitors and even pushed one. A young
drummer boy who was tossed out of a window still can be heard crying for
his mother and the crash of a chimney that killed a small baby during
bombardment can still be felt to shake another house.
The Viewing: Run by the National Park Service today, Harpers
Ferry is a unique combination of Civil War time capsule, living history
museum and general tourist destination. For information on
visiting,
click
here.
www.nps.gov/hafe/
www.harpersferryghost.20m.com
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/wv/harpers_ferry.cfm
www.prairieghosts.com/ferry.html
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Wisconsin
Milwaukee -
Brumder Mansion
 |
The History: George Brumder had the home built in
1910 for his son, George Jr. After they sold the home, the house was
everything from a boarding house to an activity center for a Lutheran
church. They used the home for office space, a theater, and later opened
a coffee house with a live music venue. The current owners purchased the
home in 1997 and opened the renovated space as a B&B in 1998.
The Haunting: The Gold Room was once the room of one of the Brumder daughters who never married after
suffering a broken heart early in
life. She is said to still stay in the room, in fact she was quite
appalled and upset when the current owner spent the night in this room
with her dogs - no dogs allowed! Your dreams will be haunted if any dogs
sleep on the bed!
The Viewing: It's a Bed & Breakfast, so take the plunge and
spend the night - request the Gold Suite! You can even join a ghost
hunting seminar or enjoy a haunted history dinner! For more information,
click
here.
http://milwaukeebedbreakfast.com/
www.milwaukeeghosts.com
www.hauntedhouses.com
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Wyoming
Laramie - Wyoming Territorial Prison
 |
The History: Built in 1872, this prison was one
of the few in this broad territory but it did not house the most
notorious killers as these were sent to Cheyenne. The most famous
resident was Butch Cassidy. It only housed about 1000 prisoners as
after 1890 a new prison was founded in Rawlins and the University of
Wyoming took over the Territorial Prison for stock yard training and
experiments. No prisoners were executed here or even died here as
they were sent home to die to save the state the trouble of burying
them. One inmate did die of a heart attack, Julius Greenwich and
it is said his ghost now haunts the place.
The Haunting: Julius was convicted of 2nd degree murder because
he murdered his wife in a rage after he found her working in a brothel
he frequented. He was a cigar salesman and even set up a cigar
factory in the prison so yes, you guessed it, cigar smoke often fills
the air mysteriously. He has also been spotted standing in the
doorway that used to be his cell.
The Viewing: This site was restored in 1989 and includes
exhibits about Laramie and frontier living as well as the history of the
prison. For more information about visiting,
click here.
http://wyoparks.state.wy.us/Site/SiteInfo.asp?siteID=25
www.wyomingterritorialprison.com
www.wyomingheritage.org/territorialPrison.html
www.hauntedhouses.com/states/wy/wyoming-territorial-prison.cfm
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|
 
Still can't get enough? No problem! Here are
some websites that list even more haunted hotels, inns, castles, historical sites,
cemeteries, tours, and other ghostly fun. Just a quick note: many haunted houses seem to get their start from murder or untimely
death. Although we have not gone into graphic details here, please note
that some of these sites do
go into much more (sometimes gruesome) detail!
American Hauntings
http://www.prairieghosts.com/
This site is a bit busy, but if you look through it there are some great
excerpts from their books and fun ghost tours they run.
Haunted Accommodations.com
http://www.hauntedaccommodations.com/
A ghostly list of haunted hotels, tours, and city sites in the U.S. and
abroad.
Haunted Houses.com
http://hauntedhouses.com/
A great selection about haunted homes, places, movies, ghost towns and
more! The site is very well done with good pictures and fun
stories.
Haunted World.com
http://www.hauntworld.com/
This site lists and reviews haunted houses but also has other
tales and ghost hangouts listed by state. A little bit of
everything, it is a fun site.
Real Haunts
http://www.realhaunts.com/
Another fun collection of haunted and spooky places to stay or see on
your vacation. Attractions listed by state.
The Shadowlands: Ghosts & Hauntings
http://theshadowlands.net/ghost/
This site lists all the stories that exist about spooky
places in your neighborhood. Entries are short and to the point.
Still want more?
How about a Haunted
Vacation? Check out
our list of Haunted Hotels,
Inns and Castles!
Looking for a little
adventure, but it's too wet
outside to play? Why not
snuggle indoors and thrill
your imagination with a
haunted vacation? Many
hotels, inns, and even
castles offer spooky weekend
getaways. Perhaps a friendly
ghost will fold your clothes
and lay them out on the bed;
a mischievous one might turn
on the lights and radio at
2:00AM; or perhaps one with
a chip on his shoulder might
give you a little "bump in
the night" to remind you he
is there. You might find it
a good laugh or a little fun
to shake up the fall and
winter humdrums. Click on
the banner below to read our
previous article that lists
scary places to stay for a
haunted vacation. We tried
to collect from across the
U.S. and added in a few
international destinations
just in case you prefer a
ghost with an accent! Enjoy
and have some fun!
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