Address: 811 W Hopi Dr, Holbrook, AZ 86025, USA
Official Website: http://historicwigwamvillage.com/
The Tale Begins
Welcome, brave travelers and mystery seekers! Nestled within the heart of America, there’s an iconic motel unlike any other that manages to capture America’s love for the open road, with a twist: the Wigwam Village Motel. Chances are, if you’ve ever dreamt of sleeping in a tepee-like structure while embarking upon a classic route 66 road trip, this timeless gem has undoubtedly lit up your radar. But here’s a caveat: the charmingly unusual Wigwam Motel clings to a spooky secret not all may know. Some say, when the night blankets the sky, echoes from the past fill the air, and glimpses into yesteryears flicker in the corners of your eyes. Indeed, folks, strap yourself in as we delve into the fascinatingly eerie tales that lace every corner of this intriguing American monument. At the risk of sounding dramatic or piquing your supernatural intrigue, dare I say, our dear Wigwam Village Motel is…haunted.
The History of Wigwam Village Motel
The history of Wigwam Village Motel, also known as the Wigwam Motels, is quite an interesting piece of 20th century Americana. The concept for the wigwam-themed motels was developed by Frank A. Redford. The design was patented in 1936, inspired by the popular interest in Native American culture and distinctly featuring tepee shaped motel rooms.
The first of the Wigwam motels was built in Horse Cave, Kentucky in 1933. However, this original location no longer exists. Redford continued to expand the chain, the second Wigwam Village was constructed in Cave City, Kentucky in 1937, which is still in operation .
The popularity of the novelty architecture inspired Redford to continue expansion. The third Wigwam Village in New Orleans was also built on the business route of U.S. 61 but unfortunately, it didn’t survive.
Frank Redford then teamed up with Chester E. Lewis, an Arizona motel owner. They built the fourth Wigwam Village in Orlando in 1948, which eventually got demolished. The fifth motel was constructed in Bessemer, Alabama in 1940 and was later demolished in 1964.
The two remaining Wigwam Villages are in Holbrook, Arizona that was built in 1950, and San Bernardino, California that was built in 1949. These are both found along the nostalgic Route 66, adding to the historic charm of this famous highway.
The Holbrook location is still owned by members of the Lewis family. You can find Lewis’s personal collection of petrified wood, classic cars and Route 66 memorabilia on the grounds of the motel.
These quirky motels have become a symbol of the golden age of American road trips and hold a spot on the National Register of Historic Places due to their unique place in American history.
Is it really haunted at Wigwam Village Motel?
Whilst there is no official declaration stating that the Wigwam Village Motel is haunted, there have been a few reports of allegedly paranormal activities by some visitors. Some claim to have seen apparitions or to have experienced unexplained phenomena at the site.
One of the Wigwam Village Motels, specifically #2, located in Cave City, Kentucky, is part of this collection of interesting stories. Visitors have reported strange, unexplained sounds in the night — as if someone is walking around outside their room. However, upon checking or asking the motel staff, they found that no one was there.
There’s also another story circulating around the Wigwam Village Inn #6 in Holbrook, Arizona. Some guests of this motel have mentioned experiencing a strange feeling of being watched. Others claimed to have heard whispers or faint laughter when there was no one else around.
Yet, it’s important to remember that these are just stories and experiences from individuals, and there’s insufficient evidence to definitively say that the Wigwam Village Motels are haunted. Paranormal activities are subjective and often depend on personal beliefs and interpretations. If you’re interested in this kind of experience, however, perhaps a visit should be on your list, so you can form your own opinion!
Wrapping Up
The Wigwam Village Motel, also known as Wigwam Village #2, is not just an unusual roadside attraction in Cave City, Kentucky, but it also boasts an intriguing history and tales of paranormal activities. The motel, which was built in the 1930s, is part of Frank A. Redford’s unique Wigwam Village chain. The distinctive concrete and steel teepee-like structures capture the essence of native American architectural design, representing an era of kitsch Americana and novel attempts at attracting roadside tourists.
Over the years, there have been numerous claims of ghostly activities within these unique dwelling structures. Visitors and staff report unsettling occurrences such as unexplained whispers, sudden drops in temperature, and even sightings of full apparitions. Many believe that these occurrences are tied to the property’s past.
One of the most famous ghostly encounters revolves around the spirit of a native American man seen in the vicinity of the buildings, supposedly protecting the land that was once native American Territory. Furthermore, the spirit of a young girl named Daisy has also become a well-known specter, with visitors recounting strange giggles and the sightings of a small spectral figure playing around the premises.
In summary, the Wigwam Village Motel stands as an iconic landmark with an intriguing blend of historical significance and paranormal intrigue. Its distinct architectural design legislates a fascinating chapter in roadside Americana, and its reported hauntings give it a macabre allure, making it a captivating location for both history buffs and ghost enthusiasts.
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