Official Website: https://www.buxtoninn.com/
The Tale Begins
Welcome, dear readers, to the realm of inexplicable shivers under your skin, whispers from unseen entities, and the eerie feel of invisible eyes watching your every move. Today, we invite you to delve into the fascinating and chilling history of the celebrated Buxton Inn. Nestled in the heart of Granville, Ohio, this seemingly genteel inn elegantly colored with strokes of history, mystery, and specters seems ordinary at first glance. Yet, beyond its charming facade, it conceals spellbinding secrets lurking in its shadows, echoing with ghostly footsteps, sometimes cloaked in the gentlest whiff of lavender. As night descends and the stars keep their vigil, tales of the haunted Buxton Inn come to life, making even the bravest hearts quiver. So, brace yourself as we peel back the layers of time and pull back the spectral curtain to reveal the eerie world that exists within this historical and seemingly tranquil dwelling. Today, we delve not just into the Inn‘s rich history, but deep into its haunted heart, where the extraordinary and chilling converge. Stay with us, if you dare!
The History of The Buxton Inn
The Buxton Inn is a famed historic inn located in Granville, Ohio. Its long history traces back to 1812, when Orrin Granger, a Massachusetts native, built the inn to provide food and shelter for people journeying through Ohio on stagecoaches. Back then, it was called the “Tavern” and was a popular stopover for travelers on the National Road, a major overland route for westward expansion during the 19th century.
In 1865, the Buxton Inn was bought by Major Horton Buxton, who ran it for about 25 years and brought in significant changes. Owing to the Inn‘s significance under the major’s proprietorship, it came to be known as Buxton Inn.
During the Great Depression, the Inn faced financial difficulties and changed hands several times. However, in 1934, it was bought over by Ethel Houston “Bonnie” Bounell, who then managed it for over 70 years, making her one of the longest-serving innkeepers in US history. Bonnie rennovated the Inn and restored its historic charm, reinvigorating its potential and significant place in history.
Later, in 2014, the Ormond family bought the Buxton Inn and preserved its history while making necessary renovations to keep up with modern needs. They aimed to ensure that the Inn retains its reputation as a welcoming and comfortable retreat, as it had been for over two centuries.
The Buxton Inn has also been rumored to be haunted, with several guests recounting encounters with ghostly apparitions, including that of Major Buxton himself and the former innkeeper Bonnie Bounell.
To date, the Buxton Inn is one of America’s longest continually operating inns, and it stands as a beautiful reminder of the country’s rich and vibrant history. With its welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and historical significance, the Buxton Inn has been a staple of Granville’s community for more than 200 years.
Is it really haunted at The Buxton Inn?
The Buxton Inn, located in Granville, Ohio, has long been reputed to be haunted, with many accounts from guests and employees alike who claim to have experienced paranormal activities. Here are a handful of examples:
1. Major Buxton’s Apparition: The first owner of the inn, Major Horton Buxton, reportedly makes his presence known. His habit of smoking cigars seems to be a constant in the accounts, as numerous witnesses have reported the sudden, mysterious smell of cigar smoke.
2. The Lady in Blue: The inn is most famously associated with the haunting of a ‘Lady in Blue.’ The apparition, believed to be the spirit of former innkeeper Ethel ‘Bonnie’ Bounell, has been spotted multiple times. Ms. Bounell is frequently seen wearing a blue gown, standing on the inn’s balcony or moving about in room #9, where she spent the last years of her life.
3. Cat Sightings: In addition to human apparitions, guests have also reported sightings of a spectral cat. This ghostly feline, according to the tales, belonged to Bonnie Bounell. It’s often seen in the tavern area or scurrying around the inn’s hallways.
4. Mysterious Sounds and Sensations: Besides visual apparitions, there have been numerous instances of guests hearing strange sounds – such as unexplained footsteps, voices, and even music – when no one else is present. Some have felt cold drafts or unexpected touches, or experienced the eerie sensation of being watched.
Interesting to note is that these stories aren’t just recent rumors. Accounts of hauntings at The Buxton Inn date back to the early 20th century and have continued to be reported up to the present day, maintaining its status as one of the most haunted places in Ohio. While skeptics may write off these stories as the product of overactive imaginations, those who have experienced these strange occurrences firsthand often maintain that The Buxton Inn is truly haunted.
Wrapping Up
The Buxton Inn, established in 1805 at Granville, Ohio, holds a significant place in history as one of Ohio‘s oldest continuously operating inns. It boasts a rich past, having hosted several notable guests such as President Abraham Lincoln as well as Harriett Beecher Stowe.
In addition to its historical prominence, the Buxton Inn is widely reputed for its paranormal activity. The Inn is believed to be inhabited by several spirits, the most famous of which being Major Horton Buxton, the inn’s one-time landlord. Numerous guests have reported sightings of the Major, often donned in blue attire, increasing the intrigue around the property.
Another recurring apparition is a “Lady in Blue,” rumored to be the spirit of a former owner, Ethel “Bonnie” Bounell. Guests have reported hearing footsteps, seeing ghostly cats, and witnessing doors open and close by themselves. There have been sightings of other apparitions as well; some guests have attested to visions of a young boy playing on the grounds, a pioneer woman in a rocking chair, or a mysterious man garbed in grey.
The Buxton Inn‘s combination of historical significance and haunted reputation make it a fascinating and thrilling destination for historians, paranormal enthusiasts, and ordinary folks alike.
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