7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture

7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - The Marshall House Still Shows Civil War Hospital Equipment from 1864

Savannah's Marshall House offers more than just period furniture; it carries a tangible link to a grim chapter of American history. During the Civil War, this now-hotel served as a Union hospital starting in 1864, and remnants of that era are still visible. Forget staged museum exhibits – here, you’re wandering through a space where actual wartime medical procedures unfolded. Don't expect polished displays. Instead, the equipment on view offers a stark, unvarnished look at 19th-century medicine. Beyond the Civil War connection, the hotel trades heavily on its reputation for paranormal activity, a common theme in Savannah's historic district. Whether these stories are genuinely eerie or cleverly marketed atmosphere is up for debate. But, for those seeking a dose of history with a side of supposed spectral encounters, the Marshall House delivers a particular Savannah experience.
Savannah’s Marshall House, now a hotel, functioned as a hospital during the Civil War in 1864. A display of preserved medical equipment from this period, including tools used in surgery at the time, offers a raw glimpse into 19th-century medical practices. It’s a stark reminder of how primitive healthcare was then compared to present-day standards. The building itself, while renovated over time, still stands as an example of 19th-century construction. Considering its age and the building techniques used, its continued structural integrity is noteworthy from an engineering standpoint. Guests sometimes report unexplained occurrences, fueling speculation of paranormal activity. Whether this is a result of suggestion and the historical context, or something else, remains an open question for those studying the psychology of perception. Savannah's humid climate, while potentially beneficial for some aspects of preservation, also creates a challenge for the long-term upkeep of historical materials within the hotel. Its location in Savannah, a city with a rich and often turbulent history, places the Marshall House within a broader urban and historical context, especially considering events like the Siege of Savannah. Even the presence of original furniture in conjunction with the medical equipment can provide historians with a richer understanding of daily life during that era. Interestingly, historical records suggest this hospital served soldiers from both sides of the Civil War – a peculiar detail considering the conflict. Modern preservation methods are undoubtedly essential to ensure these artifacts endure. For visitors, the atmosphere can be described as distinctly unsettling, possibly due to the building'

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1. 7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - The Marshall House Still Shows Civil War Hospital Equipment from 1864
2. 7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - Room 204 at Kehoe House Features Original Victorian Bedroom Set Where Twin Boys Died
3. 7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - 17Hundred90 Inn Maintains Complete 1820s Dining Room Where Anna Powers Last Appeared
4. 7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - The Eliza Thompson House Keeps Its Original 1847 Master Bedroom Mirror That Shows Ghostly Reflections
5. 7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - East Bay Inn Preserved The 1852 Parlor Where Merchant Charlie Still Appears Every Tuesday
6. 7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - The Gastonian Displays The Same 1868 Grand Piano That Plays By Itself At Midnight
7. 7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - Hamilton Turner Inn Uses Original 1873 Children's Furniture Where Small Footprints Appear Weekly

7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - Room 204 at Kehoe House Features Original Victorian Bedroom Set Where Twin Boys Died

Kehoe House's Room 204 distinguishes itself through its preserved Victorian bedroom ensemble, a feature that amplifies its reputation for being haunted. This room isn't just another period piece; it’s rumored to be where twin brothers met their end. Guests who’ve stayed here recount unsettling events – sounds of shattering glass, or the shadowy figure of a child by the bed. Whether these are genuine paranormal occurrences or just the power of suggestion in a city saturated with ghost stories is debatable. However, the Kehoe House, once the family residence for a large brood of children, has become a predictable stop for ghost tours that capitalize on Savannah’s spooky allure. The draw isn’t just folklore; it's the ability to occupy a space furnished as it was in the 1800s, in a city that readily plays up its haunted past for visitor appeal. Room 204 and Kehoe House together provide a potent mix of historical setting and manufactured mystique, attractive for those seeking out supposed supernatural experiences.
Room 204 at the Kehoe House is presented as more than just a room with period furnishings; it’s framed as a focal point of documented tragedy, amplified by the presence of an actual Victorian bedroom set. This isn't reproduction furniture. The claim is these are the very pieces contemporary to the reported deaths of twin boys within these walls, lending a certain weight to the ghost stories. Architecturally, the Kehoe House itself dates back to the late 19th century, a substantial structure that has seen Savannah evolve around it. Beyond just age, there's the assertion that the room's chill – often recounted by overnight visitors – might be attributed to something mundane, like the building’s inherent draftiness, common in structures of this era, rather than strictly supernatural causes. The mahogany and other materials composing the bedroom suite reflect manufacturing styles and resource availability of that period, a study in material culture more so than spectral allure. While the tales of hauntings are pervasive, especially within Savannah’s tourism sector which thrives on such narratives, it’s worth considering how much of the reported phenomena might be linked to suggestion and the atmospheric build-up actively cultivated within these historic hotels. The value here, arguably, lies in the tangible connection to Savannah's past, from the structural integrity of the building to the survival of these domestic artifacts – offering a glimpse into 19th-century life, even if the ghostly embellishments overshadow the more concrete historical elements. Savannah’s humid climate, however, is undoubtedly an ongoing battle for those tasked with preserving both the building fabric and the antique contents, demanding constant monitoring and intervention to prevent decay of these historical assets.

7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - 17Hundred90 Inn Maintains Complete 1820s Dining Room Where Anna Powers Last Appeared

The 17Hundred90 Inn in Savannah distinguishes itself with a dining room kept in the style of the 1820s. This deliberate preservation effort gives the space a notable historical feel, which aligns with the inn's well-known reputation for being haunted. Central to these spectral tales is Anna Powers, whose ghost is frequently associated with the inn, particularly around room 204. Visitors often recount instances of objects moving inexplicably and other unsettling sensations, experiences that contribute to the inn’s draw for those interested in paranormal phenomena and historical atmosphere. The combination of aged decor and persistent ghost lore positions the 17Hundred90 Inn as a specific point of interest in Savannah for visitors seeking an encounter with the city’s past, both culinary and spectral. For those drawn to destinations where history is actively maintained and ghost stories are part of the experience, this inn offers a particularly Savannah flavor.
At Savannah's 17Hundred90 Inn, a step inside their dining room is akin to entering a time capsule set to the 1820s. They've maintained a remarkably complete interior from that era, and it's more than just window dressing. This space purports to be the last place Anna Powers, a figure woven into the inn’s lore, was seen. Setting aside the ghost stories for a moment – Savannah has no shortage of those – the very fact that an entire room from that period remains largely intact is notable. From an architectural history perspective, this offers a unique opportunity to observe design and construction techniques of the time, unfiltered by modern interpretations. The dining room’s survival, along with its furnishings, presents a tangible link to a specific period of Savannah’s past. Whether the spectral tales associated with Anna Powers and the inn itself are genuine phenomena or simply an effective element of Savannah’s tourism narrative is a separate inquiry. However, for those interested in material culture and interior spaces of the early 19th century, this dining room provides an unusually well-preserved example. The materials used, the room layout, and even the ambient environment, all contribute to a potentially authentic, if somewhat curated, experience of the past.

7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - The Eliza Thompson House Keeps Its Original 1847 Master Bedroom Mirror That Shows Ghostly Reflections

The Eliza Thompson House, erected in 1847 and claiming the title of Jones Street’s first residence, makes a point of highlighting its original master bedroom mirror, an object with a supposed ability to reflect more than just the present. This mirror is presented as a key feature in the house's haunted reputation, attracting those intrigued by Savannah’s numerous ghost stories. Forget staged period rooms; this is about original pieces, including furnishings from the 19th century, aiming to amplify an authentic, if deliberately curated, eerie atmosphere. Located a short walk from Forsyth Park, the Eliza Thompson House positions itself as a historic stay with an overtone of the paranormal, a typical Savannah offering for those seeking out a blend of past and spectral tales.
The Eliza Thompson House, dating back to 1847, stands as a representative example of Savannah’s architectural past. Within this structure, the master bedroom’s original mirror from that period has become a point of unusual interest. This isn’t just about aged decor; it’s a looking glass reflecting the very methods of 19th-century mirror production, likely involving hand-crafted techniques that would leave subtle imperfections in the glass itself. These irregularities, in turn, could contribute to the so-called ‘ghostly reflections’ attributed to it. It’s worth considering if these reported spectral images might be linked to pareidolia – a common human tendency to discern patterns, such as faces, in ambiguous visual stimuli. This effect is often amplified in locations steeped in history and a pre-existing narrative of the uncanny, like many locales within Savannah. Looking beyond the spectral claims, the preservation of the Eliza Thompson House offers a practical study in 19th-century building practices. The construction, potentially utilizing regional materials like tabby, speaks to the resourcefulness of builders at that time and the constraints of local availability and economic factors. Historical records suggest this mirror has likely borne witness to everyday life within the house over decades – ordinary family moments as well as more formal social occasions reflective of 19th-century society. This connection to lived history arguably adds to the building's overall atmosphere, whether or not one ascribes to paranormal interpretations. Savannah's humid climate, a factor both enriching and destructive, presents an ongoing challenge for preserving antique items like this mirror and the house's furnishings. Moisture control is a critical aspect of maintaining these historical artifacts against deterioration. The cultural concept of haunted mirrors is not new, rooted in long-held beliefs about reflections and the capture of essences or souls. This folklore element provides an additional layer of interpretation to visitor experiences at the Eliza Thompson House, merging local narrative with the physical object itself. The presence of original furniture isn't solely for aesthetic value; it serves as a tangible link to domestic life of the 1800s. Analysing the craftsmanship and design of these items provides insight into past material culture and daily routines. Accounts of paranormal events in the master bedroom, such as fluctuating light or inexplicable sounds, might also be considered in the context of environmental factors, specifically the potential impact of electromagnetic field variations on human perception. Research suggests that such fields can influence how individuals perceive their surroundings, which

7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - East Bay Inn Preserved The 1852 Parlor Where Merchant Charlie Still Appears Every Tuesday

East Bay Inn in Savannah stands as another example where historical preservation meets the city’s well-marketed ghost stories. This inn focuses on its 1852 parlor, where legend has it that a merchant named Charlie makes a weekly appearance every Tuesday. Originally a warehouse, the building has been converted into lodging while keeping period furniture from the 1800s, a common approach in Savannah's historic district hotels aiming to attract visitors interested in both old architecture and supposed paranormal activity. Guests staying at the East Bay Inn frequently mention experiencing unexplained events, contributing to its standing as one of Savannah’s more actively ‘haunted’ locations. The inn’s management seems to encourage this reputation, though whether the reported phenomena are genuine occurrences or simply a result of suggestion within a historically charged environment remains open to interpretation. Positioned near the Savannah River and other tourist sites, the East Bay Inn offers a conveniently located base for exploring the city, particularly for those drawn to Savannah's curated atmosphere of historical mystery. The cost to experience this blend of history and manufactured spookiness averages around $160 per night, plus parking fees, a price point that suggests a balance between historical ambiance and budget considerations for travelers.
East Bay Inn has meticulously conserved its 1852 parlor. This room is not merely a static exhibit of period decor; it’s presented as the regular haunt of a merchant named Charlie, who allegedly manifests every Tuesday. Originally constructed as a warehouse, the building’s history is intertwined with Savannah’s past as a trading port. The reported spectral appearances add a layer to the Inn's documented history. Is this adherence to a weekly schedule by a ghost merely folklore, or does it reflect a deeper psychological phenomenon related to place and memory? Setting aside the paranormal claims, the fact that an 1852 parlor has been maintained, complete with its original features, offers a unique opportunity to examine interior design and material culture from that era. Savannah, known for capitalizing on its historic character, leverages these ghost stories within its tourism sector. While the tales of Charlie and other spectral residents may draw visitors seeking unusual experiences, the real value, perhaps, lies in the tangible connection to a specific historical period afforded by these preserved spaces. For those with an interest in architectural history and the material remnants of the past, these Savannah inns offer an intriguing blend of folklore and genuine historical fabric. The sustained upkeep of such antique interiors, however, poses ongoing preservation challenges, especially in Savannah's humid climate.

7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - The Gastonian Displays The Same 1868 Grand Piano That Plays By Itself At Midnight

For travelers drawn to Savannah's historic charm but perhaps weary of overly theatrical ghost stories, The Gastonian presents a boutique hotel alternative. Housed within a pair of grand 1868 mansions, this inn emphasizes period authenticity with original 1800s furnishings. A key attraction, for better or worse, is an 1868 grand piano, rumored to perform solo concerts at midnight. While Savannah is awash with tales of spectral encounters, The Gastonian is often cited as one of the *less* intensely haunted options, a possible draw for those seeking a more relaxed historical immersion. The allure here lies in the architecture and preserved historical ambience rather than primarily in the supernatural – a subtler flavor of Savannah’s past.
At The Gastonian, visitors encounter an 1868 grand piano, which, according to local lore, occasionally performs unprompted concerts at midnight. Ignoring the spectral claims for a moment, the mere presence of such an instrument, dating back to that era, prompts questions about its operational condition. Could fluctuations in Savannah’s humidity, notoriously high, be influencing the piano’s intricate mechanics in ways that produce unintended sounds? From an engineering perspective, the construction of this 19th-century instrument, likely featuring hardwoods and iron components, speaks to the material science of the period. Its survival and purported autonomous performances offer a curious study in the intersection of historical craftsmanship and environmental factors. Perhaps the rumored melodies are less supernatural occurrences and more an acoustic phenomenon, a trick of sound within a building of this age where ambient noises and subtle vibrations might converge to create auditory illusions, especially for guests predisposed to expect the uncanny. The Gastonian itself, originally a domestic structure, would have been designed with considerations for Savannah’s challenging climate, with architectural choices potentially affecting the internal acoustics and airflow in ways that could contribute to such unusual auditory reports over time. Beyond the ghost stories, the piano stands as a tangible artifact of post-Civil War era domestic life, reflecting the social role of music and entertainment within affluent households of that period. Examining its preservation and maintenance offers insights into the techniques employed over generations to keep such historical instruments functional, regardless of any supernatural attributions they might have accrued.

7 Haunted Hotels in Savannah That Still Have Their Original 1800s Furniture - Hamilton Turner Inn Uses Original 1873 Children's Furniture Where Small Footprints Appear Weekly

The Hamilton Turner Inn, dating back to 1873, offers a different kind of intrigue. While other Savannah hotels might emphasize spectral figures tied to dramatic deaths or Civil War history, here the focus is something more subtly unsettling: children's furniture from the inn’s original era. These antique pieces are not merely for show; they're tied to the persistent legend of small footprints that appear mysteriously, week after week. Constructed during a period of Savannah’s prosperity for Mayor Hamilton, the inn carries an air of faded grandeur, now mixed with these peculiar, childlike traces. While tales of cigar-smoking rooftop ghosts and phantom billiard games circulate, it’s the story of the recurring footprints, attributed to unseen children, that gives this place a distinct, slightly eerie character. It’s less about overt scares and more about an undercurrent of inexplicable occurrences within a space steeped in 19th-century domesticity and Savannah’s storied past.
The Hamilton Turner Inn in Savannah, dating back to 1873, distinguishes itself by showcasing original children’s furniture from its initial era. This isn't just staged decor for historical effect; these are purportedly the same pieces used by children within the house over a century ago. Adding to the inn's mystique, weekly reports surface of small footprints appearing near this furniture, an occurrence described by some as unexplained. From a material science perspective, it’s worth examining the composition of this 19th-century children's furniture. Are there specific materials used, perhaps in the finishes or wood types, that could react to changes in humidity or dust accumulation in a manner that mimics footprint patterns over time? Savannah’s environment, known for its dampness, could certainly play a role in such phenomena. Beyond the spectral interpretations, the survival of children's furniture across such a span of years is itself noteworthy. These artifacts offer a tangible glimpse into the domestic lives of families in the late 19th century, their style and scale reflecting the period’s notions of childhood and domestic space. The inn's reputation for paranormal activity, including accounts of children’s laughter echoing through the halls – reported separately from the footprint events – prompts inquiry into the building's acoustics. Could the structure itself, with its 19th-century design and materials, contribute to unusual sound propagation or resonance, leading to auditory perceptions that are then interpreted within a ghost story framework? Interestingly, the Hamilton Turner Inn was among the first residences in Savannah to adopt electricity in 1883. Whether this early adoption of a new technology had any subsequent impact on the building’s atmosphere, either perceived or actual, remains an open question.