The Whittier House, Delaware Haunting

The Whittier House: A Haunting in Delaware

The Whittier House, located in Delaware’s historic Lewes, is a house steeped in mystery and ghostly tales that have captivated local residents and visitors alike for over a century. Situated on the banks of Lewes Creek, this Victorian-era mansion has been the subject of numerous unexplained occurrences and spectral sightings, making it one of the most renowned haunted sites in the Mid-Atlantic region.

The History and Background

The Whittier House was built in 1857 by Captain Joseph S. Farnham, a prominent local merchant and shipowner. Over the years, the property changed hands several times, serving as a private residence and later becoming a bed-and-breakfast known for its grandeur and historical charm. In 1980, ownership passed to the current owner, who has maintained the house while continuing to document the supernatural phenomena that have plagued it.

Key Events or Sightings (With Specific Dates/Names Where Real)

The most notable sightings began in the early 1970s when Mary Whittier, a resident of the house, reported strange occurrences. She described hearing footsteps on the stairs and feeling cold drafts despite the doors being closed. In 1985, the owner’s daughter, Lisa, documented more significant events, including:

• April 24, 1985: Lisa claimed to see a figure in the attic at night, which she later identified as a woman wearing Victorian-era clothing.
• September 13, 1986: Lisa’s mother reported being awakened by a loud noise and finding her bedroom door open even though it was locked.
• June 20, 1987: The owners’ son, John, recorded hearing the sound of a glass breaking in one of the bedrooms.

Witness Accounts or Evidence

#### Lisa’s Experiences

Lisa Whittier provided detailed accounts of her experiences. She described feeling an intense cold on more than one occasion and once heard what sounded like water running through the pipes at night. She also mentioned seeing shadowy figures moving around the house, though she could never confirm their presence.

#### The Ghostly Footsteps

One of the most consistent reports involves ghostly footsteps. On multiple occasions, residents have reported hearing heavy footsteps on the stairs leading to the attic. These sounds are often accompanied by a feeling of unease or even fear. Lisa recorded these incidents using a motion sensor and temperature gauge, which showed no changes in temperature but did capture unusual movements.

Investigations or Research

In 1987, paranormal investigators from the Society for Psychical Research (SPR) conducted an investigation at the Whittier House. They used EMF detectors, video cameras, and audio recorders to gather evidence. The results were inconclusive, with no definitive proof of supernatural activity, but several unexplained phenomena were noted.

In 2014, a group of paranormal enthusiasts from Ghost Hunters International (GHI) returned to the house for a more in-depth investigation. They utilized advanced technology, including thermal imaging cameras and high-frequency microphones. While they did not capture any definitive evidence, they documented instances where the temperature fluctuated inexplicably and reported hearing faint whispers.

The Current Status / Ongoing Mystery

Today, the Whittier House remains a popular destination for tourists interested in ghostly phenomena. Tours are offered year-round, with many visitors recounting their own experiences or sharing stories from previous guests. Despite numerous investigations over the years, the house continues to be shrouded in mystery.

Frequently Asked Questions (5 Q&A Pairs)

Q: Is there any scientific evidence that supports the claims of supernatural activity at the Whittier House?

A: While no definitive proof has been found, several unexplained phenomena have been documented. EMF detectors and thermal imaging cameras have shown fluctuations in temperature and anomalies that could not be attributed to natural causes.

Q: Have any paranormal investigators confirmed the existence of spirits or ghosts in the house?

A: No official confirmation exists from scientific paranormal investigators. However, numerous reports and accounts from residents and guests suggest that something unexplained is happening within the walls of the Whittier House.

Q: Are there any theories about who might be responsible for the hauntings at the Whittier House?

A: Speculation abounds regarding potential historical figures or souls left behind. Some theories include the spirits of former owners, a tragic accident victim, or even Civil War soldiers who may have been stationed nearby.

Q: How can visitors experience the paranormal aspects of the house themselves?

A: Visitors can participate in ghost tours led by professional guides who share their own experiences and stories from previous guests. Some tours offer private investigations using equipment like EMF detectors and thermal imaging cameras to search for unexplained phenomena.

Q: What measures are taken to ensure guest safety during paranormal investigations at the Whittier House?

A: Safety protocols include having multiple team members present, ensuring all participants are aware of emergency procedures, and providing clear instructions on how to handle any potential dangerous situations. The house is also equipped with modern security systems for added protection.

The Whittier House stands as a testament to the enduring fascination with haunted locations in America. Despite extensive investigations and countless reports, its spectral mysteries remain unexplained, continuing to draw curious visitors and researchers alike.