Exploring the Mysterious Blue Anchor Pub in Delray Beach
Nestled in the heart of Delray Beach on the vibrant Atlantic Avenue, the Blue Anchor Pub offers more than just a spot for a good pint. Originally built in 1846 in London and later relocated brick by brick to Florida in 1996, this pub carries with it a slice of British history and an eerie tale of haunting that captivates both locals and visitors.
A Transatlantic Journey and Ghostly Tales
The pub, with its authentic British facade and rich wooden interiors, stands out in sunny Florida, reminiscent of a classic London pub. Over its long history, it has entertained many notable guests, including Winston Churchill and possibly even Queen Elizabeth. Yet, the most spine-chilling part of its lore involves the unfortunate soul of Bertha Starkey, whose life was tragically ended by her husband during a heated argument within these very walls in London. Legend has it, her spirit traveled with the pub across the Atlantic and still makes its presence felt.
Haunting at the Blue Anchor: Fact or Fiction?
The Blue Anchor Pub’s reputation for being haunted is well-known in Delray Beach. Patrons and staff frequently report mysterious occurrences that suggest a paranormal presence. The owner herself experienced unexplainable events from day one, including an incident with a stubborn ceiling fan that refused to turn off and a falling ox horn that occurred just as she uttered Bertha’s name.
Other eerie happenings at the pub include rattling kitchenware, unexplained noises from the attic, and objects moving on their own. Staff report that these supernatural events often peak around 10 p.m., the exact time of Bertha’s death, marked nightly by the ringing of a bell in a ritual meant to appease her spirit.
Further adding to the pub’s haunted credentials, paranormal investigators have conducted studies here and have found evidence that supports the claims of a spectral inhabitant. Such findings make the Blue Anchor a hotspot for those fascinated by the paranormal.
If you’re intrigued by the mix of history and mystery, the Blue Anchor Pub at 804 E Atlantic Ave, Delray Beach, FL 33483, is a must-visit. Whether you’re there to enjoy a traditional British ale or to possibly catch a glimpse of Bertha, this pub offers a uniquely haunting experience.
Sources:
- Atlas Obscura. “Blue Anchor Pub.” Atlas Obscura
- Historic Palm Beach. “The Legend of the Blue Anchor Pub.” Historic Palm Beach
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