Franklin Hotel in Haunted Iowa

Exploring the Franklin Hotel: A Blend of History and Mystery

Nestled in the charming town of Strawberry Point, Iowa, the Franklin Hotel stands as a beacon of history and a whisper of the supernatural. Since its grand opening in 1903, this architectural gem has captured the imaginations of visitors with its storied past and ghostly legends. Its significant historical and cultural value was recognized in 1999 when it was proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Architectural Elegance Through the Ages

The Franklin Hotel showcases an exquisite blend of Neoclassical and Romanesque Revival architectural styles. Designed by the notable firm Netcott and Donnan from nearby Independence, Iowa, the hotel’s structure is a testament to early 20th-century craftsmanship. Its sturdy two-story brick construction was meticulously executed by builder E.M Loop, ensuring the hotel’s presence would endure through the decades.

Today, Doug and Christine Smith, who have been the custodians of the hotel since 1989, have infused modern comforts while preserving the hotel’s historical integrity. Noteworthy renovations include a striking staircase and numerous structural updates, yet the hotel’s porch—an original feature—remarkably remains intact after more than a century.

A Haunt of History: The Ghostly Residents of Franklin Hotel

The Franklin Hotel is not only known for its architectural beauty but also for its spine-tingling tales of the paranormal. Among its spectral residents, the ghost of a woman named Lily is perhaps the most famous. Adorned in a lavender gown, Lily is often heard serenading the empty corridors with her ethereal voice. Both guests and staff have reported eerie phenomena such as moving furniture and sudden appearances in the blink of an eye, particularly between the lobby and the room she once occupied.

Another enigmatic presence thought to haunt the hotel is tied to the spirits of either a former merchant or a long-serving laundry worker named Leo. Leo’s spirit is particularly active, signaled by the haunting rings of the old hotel bell system during the quiet of the night. These ghostly activities contribute to the hotel’s allure as a hotspot for paranormal investigators and enthusiasts eager to explore its mysterious ambiance.

Whether one believes in the paranormal or not, the stories and sightings at the Franklin Hotel provide an intriguing layer to its rich history. An overnight stay offers not just a cozy room but a chance to possibly encounter the unknown.

Plan Your Visit:
Address: 102 Elkader St, Strawberry Point, IA 52076
Official Website: The Franklin Hotel

Quick Historical and Paranormal Facts

• The Franklin Hotel opened its doors in 1903 and is a celebrated historical structure in Iowa.
• Its design features elements of Neoclassical and Romanesque Revival styles, highlighting the architectural trends of the early 1900s.
• Current owners, Doug and Christine Smith, have maintained the hotel’s historical essence while integrating modern amenities.
• The enduring porch and new staircase are just a few of the physical testaments to the hotel’s ongoing preservation efforts.
• The hotel’s legacy includes tales of hauntings, with the mysterious Lily and the bell-ringing spirit of Leo adding a touch of the supernatural to its ambiance.

Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or a lover of ghost stories, the Franklin Hotel in Strawberry Point invites you to step into a world where the past intersects with the paranormal.