Whaley House

Frommer's Review

In 1856, this striking two-story brick house (the first one in these parts) was built for Thomas Whaley and his family. It's probably an urban legend that this house is "officially" designated as haunted, but 100,000 people visit each year to see for themselves. It is said up to four spirits haunt the structure, including the ghost of Yankee Jim Robinson, who was hanged on the site where the house now stands in 1852. Exhibits include a life mask of Abraham Lincoln, one of only six made, and the spinet piano used in the movie Gone With the Wind. The Whaley complex includes several other historic structures, including the Verna House and two false-front buildings, both dating from the 1870s. The Verna House is now an excellent little gift shop run by the Save Our Heritage Organisation, offering beautiful Arts and Crafts pottery, architecture-themed books, and crafts (and it's the place to buy your admission tickets). With 2 weeks' notice, you can arrange a private, after-hours tour of the Whaley House.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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