Farnsworth House guarantees a frightfully good time in Gettysburg

October 31, 1:50 PMGhost Hunting ExaminerPatricia Marin

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Union and Confederate dead at Gettysburg

Courtesy National Archives, Timothy O'Sullivan

Farnsworth House in Gettysburg, PA, gets my vote for "most haunted hotel"in America. With 14 documented spirits on the premises, including at least one cat, Farnsworth House is chock full of history and paranormal activities alike. Psychics such as Chip Coffey have provided names and other details concerning several of the spirits that were later verified, helping to identify some of the permanent residents.

The original structure was built in 1810 and was occupied by Confederate sharpshooters during the Battle of Gettysburg. One of these sharpshooters is believed to have been responsible for the accidental death of Jennie Wade, the only civilian killed during the battle. The Jennie Wade House is close to  Farnsworth House and the unfortunate Jennie was killed in her kitchen while baking bread to feed Union troops.

The house itself was named in honor of Brigadier General Elon John Farnsworth, who led his regiment into battle against Longsteet's troops on July 3, 1863. Farnsworth and 65 of his men were killed in the resulting combat.

The present owners purchased the property in 1972 and have dedicated their lives to restoring it to its former grandeur and providing an authentic Civil War era experience for their guests. Plus, their interest in the "spirited" residents of Farnsworth House stems from their great respect and sympathy for those who have chosen to stay on here, long after their earthly lives have ended. The ghosts of Farnsworth House are recognized and honored by owners, employees, and guests alike. A night - or even better, an entire weekend - offers enough activities to satisfy even the most demanding ghost hunters.

Most Haunted Room
The entire hotel is haunted, but the Sara Black room has a particularly impressive list of sightings associated with it. For example, a little boy named Jeremey died in the nursery here in 1855 after being trampled by a horse. The old nursery was once a separate room, but is now part of the bathroom. Jeremey's spirit is frequently seen there by guests, along with William, the spirit of Jeremey's father who apparently remains with his son. Sometimes, around 3:00 am (the approximate time of Jeremey's death), sobbing can be heard in this room. Chip Coffey was able to confirm that an eldery woman named Mary also died here. Another frequent spectral visitor is a middle-aged man in a frock coat and top hat.

Other Resident Spirits
Additional spirits that have been identified include: Florence, Nan (the midwife), Harvey Sweeney, who owned the house during the Battle of Gettysburg, his daughter Elizabeth, Georgie, a Confederate soldier, and others.

Mourning Theater
From April 1 through December 1, Farnsworth House invites guests to descend into the cellar to attend the "Mourning Theater." Enjoy dramatic presentations by candlelight of some of the most chilling ghost stories ever and soak up the atmosphere of a Victorian "viewing parlor." You'll be transported back in time to a period in our history when death was a familiar visitor in most families, taking young and old alike. The cost is only $9.00 per person.

Seance Room
Experience a re-creation of a Civil War era seance in the new Victorian Seance Room, located in the front of the bookstore. Not for the faint of heart, this experience is done just like they did in the 1800's to help so many through the losses due to war, illness, and other tragedies. $20 per person.

Candlelight Walks
Farnsworth House offers four separate "Candlelight Walks," including the East Cemetery Hill Walk, the Confederate Hospital Walk, the new College Tour, and the Mature Tour, which includes graphic, historically accurate depictions of the battle and the true horrors of war. Not for the squeamish. The first two walks are $9.00 per person, while the College Tour and the Mature Tour are both $11.00 per person.

Ghost Hunts
Farnsworth House conducts ghost hunts at 8:45 and 10:30 for only $16 per person. They provide the equipment and instructions on how to use it, then guide you to the most active areas in town. No one under 12, please.

Paranormal Nights
The next Paranormal Night at Farnsworth House will be February 20th, 2010. Participate in a full investigation of  very haunted Farnsworth House. Other dates include March 13th and June 19th. Room & Paranormal Experience: Room rate plus $50 per person. Includes room in Farnsworth House, Presentation with Refreshments, Investigation and Full Country Breakfast Saturday morning. Paranormal Experience ONLY: $50 per person. Includes Presentation with Refreshments and Investigation.


For more information, see: http://www.farnsworthhouseinn.com. Farnsworth House is located at 401 Baltimore Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325. Telephone number is: 717.334.8838.