Summary
Omni Parker House History
The Omni Parker House in Boston, Massachusetts, is renowned as the most haunted hotel in New England. Founded by Harvey Parker in 1855, this iconic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Boston along the historic Freedom Trail and holds the record as the longest continuously operated hotel in the United States. Parker served as the resident overseer until his death in 1884; some claim he never truly left.
This historic venue has played host to some of the most celebrated names of America’s Golden Age of Literature, including Emerson, Hawthorne, and Longfellow, who gathered at the nineteenth-century Saturday Club. Additionally, famed baseball legends like Babe Ruth dined here, creating an atmosphere rich with history.
While the Omni Parker House continues to attract prominent figures, it is the eerie tales of ghosts that captivate visitors, especially during Halloween. Numerous accounts mention a bearded man and strange noises, particularly in room 303, making for an intriguing experience for guests.
The Bearded Apparition
Reports of a bearded man in colonial attire have been documented on the ninth and tenth floors, with one account describing a sighting at the foot of a young woman’s bed in room 1012. According to onlookers, “The spirit looked concerned, sitting there staring back at the guest.”
Many staff members and visitors believe this ghost to be Parker himself, despite the peculiarity of him wearing clothing from a century prior to his ownership era.
Guests have also noted seeing mysterious orbs of light floating in the 10th-floor hallways, only to vanish without a trace. Additionally, accounts from the Austin American Statesman mention eerie sounds, such as a rocking chair (which the hotel does not have), whispers, laughter, misplaced items, and flickering lights.
The 3rd Floor Visitors
While the upper floors are visited by a former hotel owner, whose spirit remains engaged with the hotel, the third floor stands out as a paranormal hotspot. Charlotte Cushman, a celebrated 19th-century stage actress known for her roles in Shakespeare’s classics, passed away in her room there in 1876. Interestingly, an elevator often travels without command to this specific floor.
The third floor is also linked to other ghostly encounters. A businessman died in room 303, leading guests to report the scent of whiskey and sounds of laughter from an unseen source, prompting the room’s conversion to a closet after many complaints.
Other Spooky Visits
Additionally, numerous surprised guests have recounted encounters with hotel founder Parker in various locations throughout the Omni. Writers of note such as Longfellow, Thoreau, Dickens, and Emerson regularly visited the hotel, and due to Longfellow’s preference for a room on the third floor, many speculate that the elevator might be assisting his return after social gatherings.
Staying at the Omni Parker House
Visitors can experience this four-star hotel whether they seek a haunting or simply wish to enjoy the classic elegance paired with modern amenities. Home to 551 guest rooms and suites, the Omni offers exquisite dining at Parker’s Restaurant, famous for its culinary delights such as Parker House Rolls and Boston cream pie.
The hotel is also family-friendly and provides a welcome gift for children. Conveniently situated along the historic Freedom Trail, the Omni Parker House places families within walking distance of iconic sites like Boston Common, Boston Public Gardens, and Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
