Cripple Creek in Haunted Colorado

Back in the 1890s, Cripple Creek in haunted Colorado was a bustling mining town that experienced a tumultuous history marked by mining accidents, floods, fires, lawlessness, and bloody battles. It comes as no surprise that Cripple Creek has gained a reputation as one of the most haunted cities in the country. According to local lore, hardly a building in Cripple Creek exists without its own ghostly inhabitants.

One notable location in the area is the Hotel St. Nicholas, constructed in 1898, which initially served as a hospital. Over the years, numerous guests have reported encountering paranormal phenomena, particularly in room 11. Eerie experiences such as unexplained sounds, disembodied voices, and unexplained movements of objects have been documented by those who have stayed in the room.

As Cripple Creek was primarily populated by male miners, the town also boasted various gentleman’s clubs. One such establishment was the Turf Club, now Buffalo Billy’s Casino. It is believed that the spirit of a young girl named Lily haunts this location. Lily’s presence is described as benevolent, and witnesses have reported seeing her playing with small children. Interestingly, after Lily’s apparition is witnessed, drawings mysteriously appear and reappear on windows and mirrors, even after they have been erased.

Brothels were another prominent feature of the town, catering to the desires of the miners. One well-known brothel, the Old Homestead Parlour House, was owned by the lively and affluent resident Madam Pearl DeVere. Running the brothel proved to be a lucrative endeavor for Madam DeVere, and she even received an extravagant gift—an $800 pink gown (equivalent to around $23,000 today) from a patron. Tragically, Madam DeVere met her end while wearing the cherished dress, having overdosed on laudanum one evening at the brothel. In accordance with the donor’s wishes, she was buried in the pink gown. It is believed that her ghostly apparition still roams the old parlour, occasionally donning the vibrant garment, reflecting her lively and flamboyant spirit.

The haunted history of Cripple Creek has captured the attention of both locals and visitors, drawing paranormal enthusiasts and curious individuals to explore its spectral tales.

Sources:
– “Cripple Creek, Colorado – A Haunted Mining Town” – Legends of America, https://www.legendsofamerica.com/co-cripplecreek/
– “Ghost Hunting in Cripple Creek, Colorado” – Haunted Rooms America, https://www.hauntedrooms.com/colorado/haunted-places/cripple-creek