The Haunting of the Driskill Hotel
The Driskill Hotel, a magnificent Romanesque Revival structure, opened its doors in 1886. Commissioned and financed by Jesse Driskill, a wealthy cattle rancher, this iconic hotel stands as a testament to Austin’s history and grandeur. However, the Driskill’s origins are tainted by the dark legacy of its founder, who accumulated his wealth through involvement in the Civil War. The hotel’s history, intertwined with blood money and tragedy, has contributed to its reputation as one of the most haunted hotels in the United States.
The History of the Driskill Hotel
Jesse Driskill, a Missouri native who sought his fortune in Texas as a cattle rancher, purchased the site for the Driskill Hotel in 1884. Two years later, the grand opening of the hotel took place. While Jesse Driskill envisioned the hotel as a symbol of prosperity and success, its construction and early years were funded by the proceeds of his involvement in the Civil War. This dark past has left an indelible mark on the hotel’s energy and ambiance.
The Driskill Hotel, with its opulent interiors and luxurious amenities, catered to the elite and influential individuals of the time. It quickly became a social hub and an emblem of Austin’s rising prominence. Over the years, the hotel witnessed numerous significant events, including political gatherings, social galas, and even a temporary home for the Texas Legislature. The Driskill Hotel served as a witness to the ebb and flow of history, leaving an imprint that lingers within its walls.
Is the Driskill Hotel Haunted?
The Driskill Hotel has earned a reputation as Austin’s most haunted establishment, with tales of ghostly encounters and unexplained phenomena. While sightings of actual apparitions are rare, the hotel is believed to be home to several resident ghosts who roam its corridors and rooms. One of the most prominent spirits said to haunt the Driskill Hotel is its original owner, Jesse Driskill himself. As the story goes, Jesse’s spirit continues to linger within the hotel, unable to enjoy the success and prosperity he had envisioned during his lifetime. His presence is often associated with the lingering scent of cigar smoke and unexplained flickering lights.
Another well-known ghostly figure is that of a young child who tragically met their demise by falling down a flight of stairs. Guests have reported seeing the apparition of a child and hearing laughter or playful footsteps when no one else is present. The spirit of a bride who took her own life after her fiancé called off their wedding in the 1990s is also said to linger within the hotel, adding a touch of melancholy to its haunting ambiance.
While many of the reported paranormal experiences at the Driskill Hotel are not visually witnessed, guests and staff have recounted various occurrences that cannot be easily explained. These include unexplained sounds, doors opening and closing on their own, sudden temperature drops, and a general feeling of unease in certain areas of the hotel.
As visitors immerse themselves in the grandeur and history of the Driskill Hotel, they may find themselves intrigued by the stories of its ghostly inhabitants. The blend of opulence and the hotel’s dark past create an atmosphere that draws both skeptics and believers into the realm of the supernatural, leaving them with a sense of awe and curiosity.
Address: The Driskill Hotel, 604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701, United States.
Sources:
1. The Driskill Hotel. “Haunting Legends.” https://www.driskillhotel.com/
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