Being among the first English colonies in the 'New World' that would eventually become the United States, New England is often associated with vivid autumn leaves, lobster harvesting, and an abundance of blueberries and cranberries. However, for some individuals, it holds a reputation as the center of all things eerie. This reputation stems from numerous well-known instances of haunting and massacre throughout the six states comprising New England. Now, let's delve into the nine most haunted locations in this region.
1. The Sterling Opera House, Derby CT
The iconic Sterling Opera House, located in Derby, CT, is known to be one of the most haunted spots in all of New England. Originally constructed in 1889 and remaining open until 1945, this historic venue has hosted renowned performers like Bob Hope and Harry Houdini. However, nowadays it is believed that spirits are the main inhabitants. Numerous paranormal investigations have taken place here and the findings have included reports of childlike voices and songs, ghostly silhouettes, mysterious lights, and even small handprints appearing out of nowhere. It is said that the building's namesake, Charles Sterling, may also be among the restless spirits that linger within its walls.
2. College Hall, Montpelier VT
College Hall, located in Montpelier VT, was originally a Seminary in the 1830s before being transformed into a college in 1941 by the Vermont College of Fine Arts. This historic building is rumored to be haunted, with one area in particular believed to be a hotspot for supernatural activity. According to local lore, the spirit of a young girl who met her tragic end within its walls still lingers and has been heard playing the pipe organ in the chapel.
3. Dudleytown, Cornwall CT
Dudleytown in Cornwall, CT has a dark reputation due to a tragic curse that is said to have befallen its residents. Established in 1738 by the Dudley family, it is believed that the curse originated with them and resulted in their untimely deaths. However, it is rumored that the curse extended beyond the Dudley family, leading to a decline in population and an unusually high number of grotesque incidents such as violent deaths, accidents, suicides, and instances of insanity. The village was eventually deserted in the 1800s, leaving behind only remnants of its former existence. Currently owned by The Dark Entry Forest Association, access to Dudleytown is rarely granted. Those who have been allowed to visit have reported seeing ghostly apparitions believed to be former inhabitants of the village. Visitors often feel a sense of foreboding upon entering and have witnessed strange occurrences such as orbs of light and shadowy figures. Adding to the eerie atmosphere is the absence of birds or animals in the area.
4. The Paine House, Coventry RI
The Paine House, located in Coventry RI, was constructed in 1691 and currently serves as a museum and the headquarters of the local historical society. Despite its historical significance, the house is renowned for its reputation as one of the most haunted places in New England. It has even been featured on a list of the most haunted places in Rhode Island. Visitors are drawn to the house by reports of numerous spirits, including a young girl who has been spotted in different areas. Ghost hunters have captured her voice on recording devices and witnessed her moving a rocking chair when prompted.
5. Blood Cemetery, Hollis, NH
Known for its eerie reputation, Pine Hill Cemetery, also known as Blood Cemetery, in Hollis, NH has been a hot spot for paranormal enthusiasts. With over 300 graves dating back to the 1700s, it's no surprise that this place has seen its fair share of ghostly activity. The infamous nickname of the cemetery actually comes from one particular ghost believed to haunt the grounds: Mr. Abel Blood. His apparition has been spotted numerous times along with other unexplained phenomena. However, the most peculiar legend surrounding the cemetery is about Mr. Blood's headstone, which supposedly changes colors and points downward after dark, despite being carved with an upward pointing finger towards the heavens.
6. Snedeker Demon House, Southington, CT
New England is known for its paranormal activity, and one of its most famous cases is the Snedeker Demon House in Southington, CT. This house was investigated by renowned paranormal researchers Ed and Lorraine Warren, who hail from Connecticut and founded the New England Society for Psychic Research. The Snedeker family moved into this former funeral home, hoping to be closer to the hospital where their son Philip was receiving cancer treatment. However, soon they began experiencing strange occurrences such as apparitions, object movement, and even blood-like water running from the faucets. At first, Philip's sightings were attributed to his medication, but other family members also witnessed these phenomena. In fact, Philip became so affected that he ended up in a mental institution after attacking his cousin. Despite the landlord's claims that there have been no more reports of activity since the Snedekers left, it remains a popular spot for visitors curious about the supernatural.
7. Danvers State Hospital, Danvers MA
The old Danvers State Hospital in Massachusetts, also known as the Kirkbride Building, was established in 1874 on Hathorne Hill. This isolated location, approximately 20 miles north of Boston, was once home to Salem Witch Trials Judge John Hathorne. Today, the hospital's remains lie near Route 1, a major roadway. The asylum faced many challenges during its operation, including overcrowding, lack of funding, neglect, and abuse - common issues in such institutions at the time. Patients often received inadequate care and were subjected to brutal treatments like lobotomies and shock therapy. Despite these challenges, the hospital remained in operation until its closure in 1992. It sat vacant until it was eventually purchased and renovated into an apartment complex in 2005. For these reasons, it has been dubbed one of the most haunted places in Massachusetts.
8. Fairfield Inn, Kennebunkport, ME
The Fairfield Inn is one of the many haunted hotels that are scattered across New England.
The town of Kennebunkport in Maine was once a shipbuilding and fishing village, but over the course of the last century, it has gradually become a summer colony where wealthy families can have a bit of a getaway.
Many of the mansions in town have been transformed into bed and breakfasts and hotels, of which The Fairfield Inn is one of them.
This was once the home of Captain James Fairfield who is the spirit that is allegedly haunting the property to this day. Captain Fairfield died just 5 short years after building the property in 1815 after falling ill and he was only 38 years old when he passed.
9. Lizzie Borden House, Fall River MA
The Lizzie Borden House, located at 230 2nd St in Fall River, MA, is a well-known and notorious destination in New England. As the site of the gruesome ax murders of Lizzie's father and stepmother in 1892, it is no surprise that it tops the list of haunted places in the region.
Lizzie Borden herself has become somewhat of a legend, even inspiring a macabre jump rope rhyme that many are familiar with - "Lizzie Borden took an ax. Gave her mother 40 whacks. When he saw what she had done. She gave her father 41!" Despite being the prime suspect in the killings, Lizzie was acquitted despite strong evidence against her.
Today, the house operates as a themed bed and breakfast, offering guests an immersive experience into its dark past. Preserved as it was in 1892, it is said to be haunted by not only Lizzie but also her alleged victims. Many have reported seeing apparitions, hearing unexplained noises, and even waking up to inexplicable scratches on their bodies during their stay.
For those seeking a spine-tingling experience and a taste of history, the Lizzie Borden House is a must-
10. Salem Inn, Salem
Experience the eerie atmosphere of Salem at the historic Salem Inn. Located on 7 Summer Street, this seaport hotel is only 18 miles north of Boston. Once three separate buildings, the inn is now known for its paranormal activity, attracting guests with a thirst for ghostly encounters. Many have shared chilling stories of missing coal and mysteriously blown-out candles throughout their stay. The infamous Room 17 holds the most sinister legend, as it is said to be haunted by Elizabeth or Katherine who seeks revenge against any man who dares to sleep there. Join us at the Salem Inn to discover more spine-tingling tales and book your stay today.