Address: Morton Hall, 217 W Dupont Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
Official Website: https://nau.edu/campus-living
The Tale Begins
Welcome to the mystical explorations of Northern Arizona University’s most intriguing landmark, Morton Hall. Whispers of timeless lore gently echo through its century-old corridors and captivating murals, weaving tales of the inexplicable and the profound. Known more for its unseen occupants than its academic brilliance, Morton Hall has carved out a unique niche for itself in NAU’s illustrious history. An eerie silence can often bring a chill down your spine, leaving you begging for the sweet serenade of the mundane. The stories of yesteryears have been passed down through generations; chilling accounts of unidentified footsteps, spectral laughter floating down hallways, and silhouetted figures seen flitting through the ventana. This captivating paradox of haunting beauty and a tranquil academic sanctuary exists right here, within the heart of our beloved Northern Arizona University. We invite you to delve into the tantalizingly terrifying tales that have converted skeptics into believers and made brave-hearts quiver. Read on, if you dare…
The History of Northern Arizona Universitys Morton Hall
Morton Hall, located on the Northern Arizona University (NAU) flagship campus in Flagstaff, Arizona, has a long-standing history that dates back to the early 20th century. Building construction started in 1910 and it officially opened its doors on September 11, 1911. The hall is named after Mary A. Morton, who served as the preceptress (woman principal) of Northern Arizona Normal School.
Morton Hall, or Morton Cottage as it was once known, was originally a women’s dormitory accommodating around 35 students under the supervision of Mary Morton. It was intended to provide a familial atmosphere and nurture socially appropriate traits. The “cottage” was home to various socials, holiday dinners, and informal gatherings held by students to encourage camaraderie.
Its architectural style is considered Folk Victorian and was designed by J.N. Preston. It is known for its octagonal lobby and primary shape of an “H”.
Over the years, the building has been subjected to various renovations. In 1935, the west wing was demolished, but later reconstructed in 1936 due to space needs. It also suffered fire damage in 1948 but was quickly repaired.
Despite these changes, the building has maintained its primary historical appeal and remains one of the oldest buildings on campus. Today Morton Hall is utilized as a mixed-gender residential hall, still housing students of NAU just as it did over a century ago.
Is it really haunted at Northern Arizona Universitys Morton Hall?
Yes, there are indeed rumors and urban legends that Northern Arizona University’s Morton Hall is haunted. Though it’s important to remember that these are stories, and no scientific evidence has ever proven the existence of ghosts.
The tale of Morton Hall begins with a student named Kathy, who reportedly lived in Room 200A in the 1950s or 60s. Different versions of the story exist but the most common one says that Kathy was dealing with a number of personal issues, including a tragic romantic breakup, which ultimately led to her taking her own life in her dorm room.
Students have reported a series of strange occurrences ever since. These include inexplicable cold spots in Room 200A, doors and windows opening and closing on their own, flickering lights, and eerie shadows. Some students also claim to have heard whispers or a woman crying, especially around Christmas, the time when Kathy is believed to have died.
There have also been reports of personal items going missing and then reappearing in strange places, pictures being turned upside down, drawers opening themselves and things being moved around in the rooms.
The piano in the building’s main hall has also been a source of mysterious happenings. Students say they often hear it playing softly on its own in the middle of the night.
While none of these stories have been conclusively verified, they have been enough to make Morton Hall one of the most talked-about ‘haunted’ locations on the Northern Arizona University campus. Whether you choose to believe in the ghost of Kathy is up to personal belief. These tales have certainly added to the folklore of the university and have piqued the interest of those intrigued by unexplained phenomena.
Wrapping Up
Northern Arizona University’s Morton Hall is steeped in local lore and legends, particularly pertaining to paranormal activities. The dormitory, named after Margaret Morton who served as the Dean of Women, is known for its reputed hauntings attributed to a tragic event that occurred in 1953. Kathleen, a student residing in room 200A, allegedly committed suicide. Following her demise, strange occurrences began to form the essence of Morton Hall ghost stories.
Residents have often reported eerie manifestations, including unexplained drafts, doors and windows opening or closing on their own, and objects moving mysteriously. Some have claimed to discern a woman’s silhouette or feel sudden drops in temperature. Chillingly, these incidences typically escalate around the date of Kathleen’s death.
Apart from the ghostly tales, Morton Hall also boasts a rich history. Constructed in 1934, it’s one of the oldest dormitories in the university. Originally women’s housing, it was restructured as a co-ed residence in 2008. Its Tudor Revival architectural style, featuring steeply pitched roofs and decorative half-timbering, reflects a distinct era.
Morton Hall’s notoriety for supernatural phenomena adds a paranormal dimension to the ambiance of Northern Arizona University, just as its historical architecture embodies a slice of the institution’s past. This combination of ghostly folklore and rich history render Morton Hall a unique and intriguing landmark within the campus.
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