The Old Absinthe House in New Orleans is a popular bar that has been around since the early 1800s. It is known for its famous absinthe drinks and its rich history. However, the bar is also known for something else – its haunting. Many people claim to have experienced paranormal activity while visiting the Old Absinthe House, making it a popular destination for ghost hunters and enthusiasts.
According to legend, the ghost that haunts the Old Absinthe House is that of a young woman who was murdered in the bar during the 1890s. Her killer was never caught, and her spirit is said to still linger in the building. Visitors have reported seeing her apparition, feeling cold spots, and hearing unexplained noises. The haunting has become so well-known that the bar even has a drink named after the ghost – the “Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shoppe” cocktail.
History of Old Absinthe House
Origins and Construction
Old Absinthe House is a historic bar located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. The building was originally constructed in 1807 as a merchandise store. It was later converted into a saloon in 1846 by Cayetano Ferrer, a Spanish immigrant. The saloon was named after the popular drink of the time, absinthe, which was banned in the United States in 1912.
The building itself is a three-story brick structure with a cast-iron balcony on the second floor. The balcony is decorated with intricate designs and is a popular spot for tourists to take pictures.
Prohibition Era
During the Prohibition era, the Old Absinthe House became a speakeasy. The bar was a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy a drink during the dry years. It is rumored that the bar had a secret room where patrons could hide their drinks during a raid.
Modern Revival
In the 1940s, the Old Absinthe House was purchased by the De Fleur family, who still own it today. The family renovated the bar and restored it to its former glory. The bar has become a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy a drink and soak up the history of the French Quarter.
Today, the Old Absinthe House is a popular destination for those interested in the history of New Orleans. The bar has a wide selection of drinks and a friendly atmosphere. It is also rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of former patrons.
Legends of the Haunting
Famous Ghost Stories
The Old Absinthe House in New Orleans has a long and storied history, and it is rumored to be haunted by several ghosts. One of the most famous ghost stories associated with the building involves the ghost of a young woman who was allegedly murdered on the premises. According to legend, the woman was a prostitute who was killed by a jealous lover in one of the upstairs rooms. Her ghost is said to haunt the building to this day, and visitors have reported seeing her apparition in various parts of the building.
Another famous ghost story associated with the Old Absinthe House involves the ghost of a Confederate soldier. According to legend, the soldier was killed during the Civil War and was brought to the Old Absinthe House to be embalmed. His body was allegedly stored in one of the upstairs rooms, and his ghost is said to haunt the building to this day.
Paranormal Investigations
Over the years, the Old Absinthe House has been the subject of numerous paranormal investigations. Many paranormal investigators believe that the building is haunted by multiple ghosts, including the spirits of the young woman and the Confederate soldier.
Some of the most compelling evidence of paranormal activity at the Old Absinthe House has been captured on video. In one video, a shadowy figure can be seen moving across the room, seemingly without any explanation. In another video, strange orbs of light can be seen moving around the building, apparently without any apparent source.
Despite the many ghost stories and paranormal investigations associated with the Old Absinthe House, there is no definitive proof that the building is haunted. Nevertheless, the legends and stories associated with the building continue to attract visitors from all over the world, and the Old Absinthe House remains one of the most popular haunted locations in New Orleans.
Architectural Features
Design and Style
The Old Absinthe House, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a historic building that has been standing since the early 1800s. The architecture of the building is a mix of styles, including Greek Revival and Italianate. The exterior features a flat roof, wrought iron balconies, and large arched windows. The interior is decorated with ornate woodwork, marble fireplaces, and a grand staircase.
Renovations Over the Years
Over the years, the Old Absinthe House has undergone several renovations to maintain its historic charm while accommodating modern amenities. In the early 1900s, the building was expanded to include a second-story balcony and a third-floor ballroom. In the 1980s, the building was renovated to include a kitchen and dining area, as well as updated plumbing and electrical systems.
Despite the renovations, the Old Absinthe House has maintained its original architectural features and charm. Visitors can still see the original woodwork, marble fireplaces, and grand staircase that have been preserved over the years. The building’s unique mix of architectural styles and historic charm make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Cultural Impact
Literature and Media
The haunting at Old Absinthe House has been a popular topic in literature and media. Several books and articles have been written about the history and paranormal activity of the building. The most famous of these is the book “Ghost Stories of Old New Orleans” by Jeanne deLavigne, which features a whole chapter dedicated to the haunting at Old Absinthe House. The book has been in print since 1946 and has been a popular read for those interested in paranormal activity.
The haunting has also been featured in several TV shows and documentaries, including “Ghost Adventures” and “My Ghost Story”. These shows have helped to increase the popularity of the haunting and have brought more attention to the building.
Tourism and Economy
The haunting at Old Absinthe House has had a significant impact on tourism and the economy of New Orleans. The building has become a popular tourist attraction, with many visitors coming to see the haunted bar and learn about its history.
The popularity of the building has also led to an increase in the number of ghost tours in the French Quarter. These tours often include a stop at Old Absinthe House, which has helped to boost the local economy.
In addition, the owners of Old Absinthe House have capitalized on the haunting by selling ghost-themed merchandise, such as t-shirts and shot glasses. This has helped to increase their revenue and has made the building an even more popular destination for tourists.
Overall, the haunting at Old Absinthe House has had a significant cultural impact on New Orleans. It has become a popular topic in literature and media, and has helped to boost tourism and the local economy.
Personal Accounts
Visitor Experiences
Many visitors to the Old Absinthe House have reported strange occurrences during their visits. Some have reported feeling a cold breeze or sudden temperature drop, even when the weather is warm. Others have reported hearing unexplained noises, such as footsteps or whispers, and feeling as though they were being watched. Some visitors have even claimed to have seen apparitions or shadowy figures.
One visitor reported seeing a ghostly figure sitting at the bar, only to have it disappear when they looked back again. Another reported feeling as though they were being touched on the shoulder, even though there was no one behind them. While these experiences are unsettling, they do not seem to be harmful in any way.
Employee Encounters
Employees at the Old Absinthe House have their fair share of ghostly encounters as well. Some have reported seeing glasses move or bottles fall off shelves on their own. Others have reported hearing footsteps or voices when no one else is around. One employee even reported feeling as though someone was breathing down their neck, only to turn around and find no one there.
Despite these eerie encounters, employees at the Old Absinthe House seem to take them in stride. Many believe that the spirits of former patrons and employees still linger in the building, and that they mean no harm. Some even believe that the ghosts are protective of the bar and its patrons, and that they watch over the establishment to this day.
Skeptical Analysis
Debunking Myths
There are many myths surrounding the haunting at Old Absinthe House. One of the most popular is that the ghost of a woman named Julie is responsible for the strange occurrences in the building. However, there is no historical record of a woman named Julie ever living or dying in the Old Absinthe House. This suggests that the story of Julie is likely a fabrication.
Another myth is that the building was once a brothel and that the ghosts of former prostitutes haunt the establishment. While it is true that the building was once a brothel, there is no evidence to support the claim that the ghosts of former prostitutes haunt the building. In fact, many of the reported paranormal experiences at the Old Absinthe House can be easily explained by natural phenomena.
Scientific Explanations
There are several scientific explanations for the reported paranormal activity at the Old Absinthe House. One possible explanation is infrasound, which is a low-frequency sound that is below the range of human hearing. Infrasound has been known to cause feelings of unease, anxiety, and even hallucinations in some people.
Another possible explanation is electromagnetic fields (EMF). EMF has been linked to feelings of paranoia, anxiety, and even hallucinations in some people. The Old Absinthe House is located in an area with a high concentration of electromagnetic fields, which could contribute to the reported paranormal activity.
In conclusion, while the Old Absinthe House has a reputation for being haunted, there is little evidence to support the existence of ghosts or other paranormal phenomena. Many of the reported experiences can be easily explained by natural phenomena such as infrasound and electromagnetic fields.
Visiting the Old Absinthe House
When visiting the Old Absinthe House, visitors are transported back in time to the 1800s, where the building was a popular gathering spot for politicians, artists, and writers. Located in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans, the Old Absinthe House has a rich history and is known for its haunting tales.
Tours and Events
The Old Absinthe House offers daily tours that take visitors through the historic building and provide insight into its colorful past. The tour guides are knowledgeable and provide interesting facts and stories about the building’s history. Visitors can also attend events at the Old Absinthe House, such as live music performances and special tastings.
Visitor Guidelines
When visiting the Old Absinthe House, visitors are asked to follow a few guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The guidelines include:
- No smoking inside the building
- No outside food or drinks allowed
- Respect the historic nature of the building and its artifacts
- Follow the instructions of the tour guide or event staff
Visitors are also encouraged to dress comfortably and wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking and standing for extended periods.
Overall, a visit to the Old Absinthe House is a must for anyone interested in New Orleans’ rich history and haunted tales. Whether attending a tour or event, visitors are sure to have a memorable experience at this iconic landmark.
Frequently Asked Questions
What paranormal activities have been reported at the Old Absinthe House?
The Old Absinthe House is known for its paranormal activities. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions, hearing footsteps, and feeling sudden temperature changes. Some have claimed to have seen the ghost of a man in a top hat sitting at the bar. Others have reported seeing a woman in a white dress walking through the building.
Which famous individuals have visited the Old Absinthe House?
The Old Absinthe House has been frequented by famous individuals such as Mark Twain, Oscar Wilde, and Franklin D. Roosevelt. It is also rumored that Jean Lafitte, the notorious pirate, used to visit the bar.
What location in New Orleans is considered to have the most malevolent reputation?
The LaLaurie Mansion, located on Royal Street, is considered to have the most malevolent reputation in New Orleans. It was the site of horrific acts of torture and murder by its former owner, Madame Delphine LaLaurie.
Does the Old Absinthe House serve authentic absinthe?
Yes, the Old Absinthe House serves authentic absinthe. Absinthe was banned in the United States for many years, but it has since been legalized. The Old Absinthe House is one of the few places in the country where you can experience this traditional drink.
What is the history behind the Old Absinthe House?
The Old Absinthe House was built in 1806 and has a long and storied history. It was originally called the “Mermaid Tavern” and was a popular meeting place for pirates and privateers. It was later renamed the “Absinthe Room” and became a popular spot for artists, writers, and musicians.
How can one experience a ghost tour at the Old Absinthe House?
There are several ghost tour companies in New Orleans that offer tours of the Old Absinthe House. These tours typically last around two hours and take you through the building while telling you about its history and paranormal activities. It is recommended to book in advance, as these tours can fill up quickly.
