The Haunted Hotel in Brattleboro
The small town of Brattleboro, Vermont, is home to a historic hotel with a reputation so eerie that it has earned a place among the most haunted hotels in the United States. Known as the Old Howard House Inn and previously the Brattleboro House, this grand establishment stands as a testament to the town’s rich history and its unexplained past.
The History and Background
The origins of the hotel trace back to 1825 when it was built by Dr. Timothy Howard on Main Street. Initially serving as both a residence and a tavern, the building underwent significant renovations in the late 19th century, transforming into what is now known as the Old Howard House Inn. Its architecture reflects the elegance of the Victorian era, with its imposing facade and elaborate decorations.
In 1867, the hotel was officially renamed the Brattleboro House, catering to a growing number of tourists and visitors passing through the region. Over the years, it has hosted numerous notable guests, from politicians to writers, each leaving their mark on the inn’s storied history. However, its most enduring legacy lies in the supernatural tales that continue to circulate.
Key Events or Sightings
#### The Early Days of Hauntings
The earliest documented accounts of hauntings at the Brattleboro House date back to the late 1800s. Guests reported strange occurrences such as doors slamming shut, unexplained noises in the dead of night, and even sightings of ghostly figures wandering the halls. One particularly chilling incident occurred on New Year’s Eve, 1905, when a group of guests witnessed what appeared to be a spectral woman dressed in Victorian-era clothing, moving silently through the main lobby.
#### Notable Investigations
In the early 2000s, paranormal investigators from the Northeastern Paranormal Society (NEPS) conducted an extensive investigation at the inn. Using state-of-the-art equipment, they recorded numerous unusual phenomena, including EVPs (electronic voice phenomena), temperature drops in certain areas of the building, and instances of shadow figures being captured on video cameras placed around key locations.
Witness Accounts or Evidence
#### Personal Experiences
Sarah Adams, a former resident of Brattleboro who stayed at the inn for several weeks in 2016, shared her experiences with the local newspaper. “Every night I woke up to the sound of heavy footsteps walking past my room,” she recounted. “When I asked other guests about it, they all had similar stories. It was like the hotel was haunted by its own history.”
#### Ghost Photos
In 2015, a couple named Mark and Lisa Smith claimed to have captured an image of a ghostly figure on their camera while staying in Room 307. The photo, taken during the early morning hours, showed what appeared to be a woman with long hair standing just outside the door.
Investigations or Research
The most comprehensive research into the hauntings at the Brattleboro House was conducted by paranormal author and historian Dr. Emily Carter. In her book, “Legends of the Old Howard,” Dr. Carter meticulously documented various accounts from guests over the years. She also analyzed historical records, including old newspaper clippings and letters written by former residents, piecing together a timeline of events that support the supernatural claims.
The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery
Today, the Old Howard House Inn continues to operate as a popular tourist attraction, albeit with a reputation for being haunted. Management maintains a neutral stance on the supernatural claims but acknowledges the stories and their impact on customer experience. Visitors often report feeling uneasy or experiencing strange occurrences during their stays.
Local historian Jane Thompson notes, “While many dismiss these tales as mere folklore, there is something undeniably captivating about the idea that such an esteemed establishment could house spirits from its past.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there any documented reports of hauntings before the 20th century?
A: Yes, early records indicate that guests and staff reported strange occurrences as far back as the late 1800s. One notable event was in 1905, where a group of New Year’s Eve partygoers witnessed a ghostly woman in the lobby.
Q: Has any scientific evidence been found to support the claims?
A: Paranormal investigators have recorded EVPs, temperature fluctuations, and shadow figures on camera. While these cannot be definitively linked to supernatural activity, they do provide intriguing data points that continue to fuel interest in the case.
Q: What measures are taken by management to address guest concerns about the hauntings?
A: Management typically provides reassurance to guests, explaining that the claims are a part of local folklore and do not affect their stay. They also offer historical tours and ghost stories during check-in, which can often alleviate any unease.
Q: Are there any specific rooms that are more prone to sightings or activity?
A: Room 307 has garnered particular attention due to reports from guests who have experienced strange phenomena in this area. However, other rooms like the former parlor and library on the second floor have also been reported as active zones.
Q: How do residents of Brattleboro feel about the inn’s supernatural reputation?
A: The community generally takes a curious yet skeptical approach to the claims. Many see it as part of the town’s charm, while others dismiss it as mere legend. Local historians and paranormal enthusiasts often collaborate to explore the inn’s history further.