New Hampshire is a state rich in history and folklore, and it is no surprise that it is home to many haunted places. From abandoned asylums to historic hotels, the Granite State has a reputation for being one of the most haunted places in the country. In this article, we will explore the most haunted places in New Hampshire, and the stories behind them.
For those who believe in the paranormal, New Hampshire is a treasure trove of haunted places. From the ghost of a young girl who haunts the Tilton Inn, to the spirits of former patients who still roam the halls of the former state asylum, these haunted places are sure to send shivers down the spine of even the bravest visitors. Whether you are a skeptic or a believer, the history and legends behind these places are fascinating, and they offer a glimpse into the darker side of New Hampshire’s past.
Whether you are a fan of ghost stories or simply enjoy exploring the history of New Hampshire, this article will guide you through the top haunted places in the state. From chilling tales of murder and mayhem to unexplained phenomena and ghostly apparitions, these haunted places are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, grab a flashlight and a brave companion, and get ready to explore the haunted side of New Hampshire.
Pine Hill Cemetery
Pine Hill Cemetery, located in Hollis, New Hampshire, is known as one of the most haunted burial grounds in all of New England. The cemetery is said to have a long history of paranormal activity, and many visitors report feeling an eerie presence when they visit.
Abel Blood
One of the most famous stories associated with Pine Hill Cemetery is that of Abel Blood. According to legend, Abel Blood and his wife Betsy were buried side by side in the cemetery. Some say that the Blood family was murdered, and that Abel’s spirit roams the grounds trying to find his way home or locate his beloved wife.
Visitors to the cemetery have reported seeing strange lights and hearing unexplained noises, leading many to believe that the spirits of Abel and Betsy Blood still haunt the cemetery to this day. Some have even claimed to have seen Abel’s ghostly figure wandering among the tombstones.
Despite its reputation for being haunted, Pine Hill Cemetery remains a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the area’s spooky history. Visitors are reminded to be respectful of the cemetery and its inhabitants, and to never touch or upset any markers. The cemetery is closed from dusk till dawn, but respectful visitors can visit during the day at address: Hollis, NH 03049.
In conclusion, Pine Hill Cemetery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the paranormal. With its long history of ghostly activity and famous legends, it’s no wonder that so many people believe it to be one of the most haunted places in New Hampshire.
Alton Town Hall and Kimball Castle
Located in Alton, New Hampshire, the Alton Town Hall carries with it a mysterious aura. While the town itself is known for its rich history and scenic beauty, the Town Hall has garnered attention for more eerie reasons. There are claims that the Alton Town Hall is haunted by the ghost of a rugged outdoorsman. This spectral figure is believed to be one of the many spirits that reside within the building.
Although specific details about the rugged outdoorsman’s identity or the circumstances of his death are not widely documented, his presence has been felt by many who have visited the Town Hall. Whispered tales and firsthand accounts from locals and visitors alike speak of unexplained noises, cold spots, and even fleeting apparitions that hint at the building’s paranormal activity.
It’s worth noting that while many believe in the presence of this ghostly outdoorsman, others remain skeptical. Regardless of one’s beliefs, the tales of the Alton Town Hall add a layer of intrigue to this historic building. Those interested in exploring the paranormal side of Alton might find the Town Hall a place of interest, but as always, it’s essential to approach such locations with respect and caution.
Another haunted location in New Hampshire is Kimball Castle, located in Gilford. The castle is in ruins, but the eerie feeling emanates from just outside. It is reported that the clocks inside once began working after being out of service, and others have told stories of lights turning on and off. Even before stepping inside, it has a creepy aura surrounding it that is apparent immediately at first sight. Haunted Rooms America describes Kimball Castle as one of the most haunted locations in New Hampshire.
Both Alton Town Hall and Kimball Castle are known for their cold spots, where the temperature drops suddenly and dramatically. Doors opening and closing on their own, as well as strange lights, are also commonly reported. These locations are popular among paranormal enthusiasts and ghost hunters, who come to investigate and experience the supernatural activity.
Isles of Shoals and Smuttynose Island
The Isles of Shoals, located off the coast of New Hampshire, have a bone-chilling history that has earned them a reputation as one of the most haunted places in the state. The islands consist of nine islands and several ledges, with Smuttynose Island being the most infamous.
Smuttynose Island, part of the Isles of Shoals, spans approximately 27 acres off the coast of New Hampshire and Maine. The island’s name is believed to have been inspired by fishermen who thought the abundant seaweed at one end resembled the “smutty nose” of a large sea creature. While recognized for its natural beauty, the island is more infamously known for a dark chapter in its history.
On the night of March 6, 1873, a chilling event known as the Smuttynose murders took place. Three Norwegian immigrant women, Maren Hontvet, Karen Christensen, and Anethe Christensen, were alone in the island’s only occupied house. An intruder broke in, brutally beating and strangling Karen and using an axe to kill Anethe. Maren managed to escape the assailant by fleeing through a window and hiding among rocks until daybreak, after which she signaled for help from a neighboring island. Maren identified the killer as Louis Wagner, a German-born fisherman familiar to the family. Wagner was subsequently arrested, tried, and hanged for the crime in 1875. However, while awaiting execution, Wagner claimed his innocence, suggesting he had been framed.
The Smuttynose murders have left an indelible mark on the island’s history. The crime has been the subject of various books, articles, and even a film adaptation. Writer Celia Thaxter, who lived on a neighboring island, wrote an account of the murders titled “A Memorable Murder” in 1875. Additionally, the story was fictionalized in Anita Shreve’s 1997 novel “The Weight of Water.” The island, with its haunting past, continues to intrigue visitors and remains a testament to the darker side of human nature.
Despite its dark history, the Isles of Shoals remain a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming to explore the historic buildings and enjoy the scenic views. However, those who are brave enough to venture out at night may encounter some of the island’s ghostly residents.
University of New Hampshire
The University of New Hampshire (UNH) is a public research university in Durham, New Hampshire. It has a reputation for being one of the most haunted campuses in the country.
The paranormal activity at UNH is said to be centered around the main staircase in the Thompson Hall building. Students and faculty have reported feeling an eerie presence in the area, and some have even claimed to see a ghostly figure lurking around the staircase.
In addition to the main staircase, the upstairs window of the T-Hall building is also said to be haunted. Legend has it that a student committed suicide by jumping out of the window, and now her ghost can be seen peering out from the glass.
Despite the many reports of paranormal activity at UNH, the university has never officially acknowledged any supernatural occurrences on campus. However, the stories and legends continue to persist, and many students and faculty members remain convinced that there is something otherworldly at play in the halls of UNH.
If you’re interested in exploring the haunted history of UNH for yourself, be sure to check out the university’s annual Haunted Trail event, which takes place every Halloween season.
Haunted Hotels
New Hampshire has a rich history of haunted hotels, where guests have reported strange occurrences and sightings of apparitions. Here are some of the most haunted hotels in the state:
Three Chimneys Inn
Three Chimneys Inn in Durham stands as a testament to time, with its foundations laid in 1649 by the ambitious entrepreneur Valentine Hill. This historic establishment, the oldest home in Durham, has seen countless seasons come and go. Valentine Hill’s daughter, Hannah, became a significant part of the inn’s history. Married at the tender age of 20 in 1659, her life took a tragic turn. The records fall silent about Hannah post her marriage, leading many to believe she met her untimely end by drowning in the Oyster River, which flows quietly behind the inn. Yet, many say she never truly left.
The inn’s corridors and rooms seem to echo with tales of the unexplained. Karen Meyer, the innkeeper with 12 years under her belt, is a firm believer in the spirits that call the inn home, with Hannah being the most prominent. Mysterious happenings are a regular occurrence, from silverware playing hide and seek to doors locking on their own. Meyer emphasizes that while these spirits might be mischievous, they aren’t malevolent. Guests, too, have had their fair share of eerie experiences. One recounted an incident where she heard the whisper of an older woman, while others have reported furniture moving in unoccupied rooms above them.
The Three Chimneys Inn, with its rich history and paranormal tales, continues to be a beacon for those seeking both luxury and mystery. While the inn offers a cozy stay, it also promises a brush with the unknown. Whether it’s the playful antics of spirits or the rich tapestry of its past, the inn remains an enigma, waiting to share its stories with those who dare to listen.
Mount Washington Hotel
Mount Washington Hotel, nestled in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, is not just a symbol of luxury and grandeur but also a beacon for paranormal enthusiasts. The hotel, built between 1900 and 1902 by Joseph Stickney, has seen its fair share of history. Stickney, who passed away shortly after the hotel’s inauguration, had poured his heart, soul, and a whopping $1.7 million into this architectural marvel. His vision was to create a luxurious escape for the elite, and he succeeded, but little did he know that his hotel would also become a haven for spirits.
The most talked-about ghostly presence is that of Carolyn Stickney, Joseph’s wife. Room 314 is believed to be her favorite haunt. Guests have reported seeing her silhouette brushing her hair at the foot of the bed, wandering the hallways, and even passing through walls. Her ethereal presence is so strong that many have felt her watching them, especially during the quiet hours of the night. But she’s not the only spirit that roams the hotel. The unsettling cries of babies echo in the Madison Room, and room #206 is said to be haunted by a less amiable female spirit, making guests uneasy with her eerie aura.
Over the years, these tales of the supernatural have transformed the Mount Washington Hotel from just a luxurious getaway to a hotspot for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers. While the hotel continues to serve as a testament to early 20th-century opulence, the stories of its ghostly inhabitants add a layer of mystery. Visitors now come not just for the lavish experience but also in hopes of encountering the spectral residents that have become an integral part of the hotel’s legacy.
Tilton Inn
The Tilton Inn, located in the picturesque town of Tilton, New Hampshire, boasts a rich history that dates back to 1875. Over the years, it has welcomed many notable guests, including the likes of Henry Ford and Thomas Edison. Their stays are a testament to the inn’s charm and allure. However, the inn’s history is not just about its esteemed guests. It has faced its share of tragedies, having burned down three times. Despite these setbacks, the inn has always risen from the ashes, undergoing changes but retaining its essence.
Paranormal enthusiasts might be particularly interested in the inn’s ghostly tales. One such story revolves around a tragic fire in the 1800s that claimed the life of a 12-year-old girl in the Sanborn room. Today, guests and staff claim her spirit still lingers. This playful ghost is often spotted in her room, the restaurant, and the entrance area. While she mostly keeps to herself, she occasionally indulges in some mischief, like rattling glasses or knocking items off shelves. Her presence, though eerie, is generally considered benign.
Despite its haunted reputation, the Tilton Inn remains a beloved destination. The inn’s charm, combined with its paranormal tales, draws both skeptics and believers. While some visitors come for a peaceful getaway, others hope to encounter the inn’s spectral resident. Regardless of the reason for their stay, guests are bound to leave with unforgettable memories and perhaps a ghostly tale or two of their own.
Overall, these haunted hotels are a must-visit for ghost hunters and anyone interested in the paranormal. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the history and stories behind these hotels are sure to send chills down your spine.
Haunted Towns and Cities
New Hampshire is home to several haunted towns and cities, each with its own unique ghost stories and legends. Here are a few of the most haunted cities in the state:
Concord
Concord, the capital city of New Hampshire, is home to several haunted locations. One of the most famous is the Eagle Hotel on Main Street. The hotel, which was built in the early 1800s, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former owner who died in the building. Guests have reported strange noises, cold spots, and even the ghostly apparition of the former owner.
Another haunted location in Concord is the New Hampshire State House. Visitors have reported seeing the ghostly apparition of a man in a top hat wandering the halls of the building. Some believe the ghost is the spirit of a former governor who died in the building.
Nashua
Nashua, located in southern New Hampshire, is home to several haunted locations, including the Abbot-Spalding House. The house, which was built in the 1830s, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former owner. Visitors have reported strange noises, cold spots, and even the apparition of the former owner.
Another haunted location in Nashua is the Gilson Road Cemetery. The cemetery, which dates back to the 1800s, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a young girl who died in a nearby house fire. Visitors have reported seeing the ghostly apparition of the girl and hearing strange noises in the cemetery.
Manchester
Manchester, the largest city in New Hampshire, is home to several haunted locations, including the Palace Theatre. The theatre, which was built in the early 1900s, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former stagehand who died in the building. Visitors have reported seeing the ghostly apparition of the stagehand and hearing strange noises in the building.
Another haunted location in Manchester is the Weston Observatory. The observatory, which was built in the late 1800s, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former professor who died in the building. Visitors have reported strange noises and even the apparition of the former professor.
Overall, New England is known for its aging architecture and haunted tours, and New Hampshire is no exception. Visitors to the state can explore the many haunted locations and ghost stories that make up its rich history.
Other Notable Haunted Locations
Amos J. Blake House Museum
The Amos J. Blake House Museum, located in Fitzwilliam, is a historical house museum that is said to be haunted by the ghost of Nancy Barton. Barton was a servant in the Blake household during the 1800s and is rumored to have had a romantic relationship with Amos J. Blake, the owner of the house. Visitors have reported seeing the ghostly figure of a tall, red-haired woman in the house, as well as hearing unexplained noises and footsteps.
Ocean-Born Mary House
Ocean-Born Mary House in Henniker, New Hampshire, is wrapped in a tapestry of legends and myths. The story begins with Mary Wallace, born in July 1720 aboard a ship off the coast of Boston. On that fateful day, pirates attacked the ship. However, the cries of the newborn Mary caught the pirate captain’s attention. Struck by emotion, he made a deal: he’d spare everyone on board if the baby was named “Mary” after one of his relatives. The grateful mother agreed, and the pirate gifted her green silk for Mary’s future wedding dress.
As Mary grew, she led a normal life, marrying in Londonderry, NH, and later settling in Henniker with her children. The paranormal twist begins with a Wisconsin man named Mr. Louis Roy. He moved into a house previously owned by one of Mary’s sons. Over time, Roy began weaving tales of Mary’s ghost haunting the house, her fictional love affair with the pirate, and buried treasures. He even claimed Mary was buried under the house’s hearthstone. These tales attracted many, turning the house into a hotspot for ghost hunters and treasure seekers.
The legend persisted even after Roy’s death in 1965. The new homeowners constantly dealt with paranormal enthusiasts and treasure hunters knocking on their doors, despite their efforts to debunk the myths. While the ghostly tales of Mary might be fiction, some believe the real ghost to fear might be Mr. Roy, who is indeed buried on the property.
Boon Island Lighthouse
Boon Island Lighthouse in Maine stands tall, not just as New England’s highest beacon but also as a sentinel to a haunting past. Perched on a tiny, barren rock island, this lighthouse has witnessed its fair share of maritime tragedies. Yet, one tale stands out, casting a long, eerie shadow over the island’s history. It’s the story of a lighthouse keeper named Lucas Bright and his young bride, Katherine.
In the mid-1800s, the couple arrived at Boon Island, ready to embrace their new roles. But their dreams were short-lived. A fierce December nor’easter hit the island just four months after their arrival. Despite being unwell, Lucas knew his duty. He ventured out into the storm, tying a rope around his waist, to ensure the lantern was lit for mariners. As he battled the elements, a massive wave claimed him, pulling him into the icy depths. Katherine, having witnessed the tragedy, managed to retrieve Lucas’s body. Heartbroken, she assumed her husband’s duties, ensuring the beacon shone bright for five relentless stormy days and nights, all while mourning beside Lucas’s frozen remains.
The storm’s fury eventually waned, but its aftermath was devastating. When local fishermen investigated the now-dark lighthouse, they found a shattered Katherine, clinging to her husband’s lifeless form. She soon succumbed, her spirit broken. Since that tragic event, many have reported sightings of a ghostly woman on the island, believed to be Katherine. Her mournful presence, coupled with eerie sounds and unexplained phenomena, has cemented Boon Island Lighthouse’s reputation as a place of both historical significance and haunting mystery.
While these three locations may not be as well-known as some of the other haunted places in New Hampshire, they are still worth a visit for those interested in the paranormal. Visitors should be respectful of these historic sites and the spirits that are said to inhabit them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most haunted places in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire is home to many reportedly haunted places, including The Tilton Inn (The 1875 Inn) in Tilton, the Blair Bridge in Campton, and the Amos J Blake House Museum in Fitzwilliam. Other haunted places in New Hampshire include the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods and the Pine Hill Cemetery in Hollis.
Have there been any reported ghost sightings in New Hampshire?
Yes, there have been many reported ghost sightings in New Hampshire. The Tilton Inn is said to be haunted by a ghost named Laura, who died in a fire when she was just 12 years old. Guests have reported seeing her ghost in various rooms and hallways throughout the inn. The Blair Bridge is also said to be haunted by the ghost of a young woman who was killed in a car accident on the bridge. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure on the bridge at night.
Which haunted places in New Hampshire are open to the public?
Many of the reportedly haunted places in New Hampshire are open to the public, including the Tilton Inn, the Amos J Blake House Museum, and the Pine Hill Cemetery. The Omni Mount Washington Resort is also open to the public and offers ghost tours for those interested in learning more about the resort’s haunted history.
What is the history behind some of the haunted places in New Hampshire?
The history behind some of the haunted places in New Hampshire varies. The Tilton Inn was built in 1875 and has a long history of paranormal activity, including reports of ghostly apparitions and unexplained noises. The Blair Bridge was built in 1829 and has been the site of several fatal accidents over the years, leading to rumors of ghostly activity. The Amos J Blake House Museum was built in 1808 and is said to be haunted by 11 ghosts and a phantom cat.
Are there any guided tours available for the haunted places in New Hampshire?
Yes, there are guided tours available for some of the haunted places in New Hampshire. The Omni Mount Washington Resort offers ghost tours that take visitors through the resort’s haunted history. The Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse also offers ghost tours for those interested in learning about the lighthouse’s haunted past.
What precautions should I take when visiting haunted places in New Hampshire?
When visiting haunted places in New Hampshire, it is important to be respectful of the property and the spirits that may be present. Visitors should also be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure their safety, such as wearing appropriate footwear and carrying a flashlight. It is also important to follow any rules or regulations that may be in place at the haunted location.
