Discovering the Haunted Charm of Charleston, South Carolina
As Halloween approaches, excitement is creeping in, and the spookiest of stories are swirling around! If you find yourself wandering through the charming streets of Charleston, South Carolina, you might want to stop by a curious little spot that has earned quite a reputation for being *extraordinarily haunted*—the historic inn at 20 South Battery. This enchanting place, formerly known as the Battery Carriage House, dates back to 1843 and has had quite the storied past.
A History Steeped in Haunting
The building has seen a myriad of transformations, from serving as elegant private residences for local Charlestonians to housing a Union Army officer during the Civil War. It even offered rooms for Navy sailors at one point! In 1920, it was here that the *Society for the Preservation of Old Dwellings* was formed, making it a significant location in American history.
After a period as student apartments, it was renovated into an inn, painstakingly preserving its unique historical charm. This careful restoration earned it the *Carolopolis Award*, Charleston’s highest honor for preservation, in 2018. Yet, all of these remarkable attributes seem to pale in comparison to the ghost stories that continue to capture visitors’ imaginations!
Ghostly Residents of 20 South Battery
b*ut what exactly makes this inn a hotspot for ghostly encounters? According to various ghost tour operators, there are quite a few intriguing tales that continue to pop up. Forbes magazine listed some of the most enchanting ghostly tales, mentioning a few key spectral figures who appear in various rooms throughout the inn.
One of the more notorious spirits is a legless Confederate soldier, often spotted in Room 8. Witnesses describe him as having a rather *menacing and ugly* presence. However, the ghostly cast does not end there! Guests have reported seeing a lady in white or even a small child in the same room, adding a touch of mystery to every stay.
Orbs and the Gentleman Ghost
Room 3 has its own spine-tingling encounter, where one couple allegedly captured a *flying orb*! Seeking clarity, they called in a psychic to explore the house’s ethereal energies. Meanwhile, Ghost City Tours has stated that Room 10 is the place to be for those hunting for ghosts, as it’s believed to harbors the intriguing figure known as the *Gentleman Ghost*.
Guests who’ve encountered this phantom described him as an *average height grayish shadow* that glides around the room with a certain elegance. He seems to have a fondness for beds and has startled guests by lounging on theirs! Now that’s an unexpected roommate!
Ghost Tours and Local Lore
Charleston is rich with ghostly tours that celebrate the city’s haunted heritage. Operators frequently take tourists to various locations, including the infamous inn, relaying narratives that mingle history with the supernatural. Along with this particular destination, the tour guides often weave in tales from the city’s eerie past.
As you wander through the streets of Charleston this Halloween season, consider dropping by 20 South Battery. Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or just love a good ghost story, visiting this historic inn promises an unforgettable experience. Who knows? You may just find yourself sharing a friendly encounter with the otherworldly residents who have made this charming location their home.
No matter if you’re interested in history, wanting to embrace the Halloween spirit, or perhaps meet a friendly ghost or two, Charleston’s haunted inn is surely worth checking out!
