Billing itself as the only historic inn in Omaha, Nebraska, the Cornerstone Mansion is a gloriously-restored mansion that once belonged to one of the area’s most famous families. But did family tragedy lead to spirits that cannot rest, even to this day? Completed in 1894 after two years of construction, the Offutt-Yost Mansion was a wedding gift from Anna and Casper Yost to their daughter Bertha and her new husband, Charles Offutt. No expense was spared – the two-and-a-half-story Gothic mansion had 17 rooms and was designed by world-famous architect Henry Ives Cobb. The wedding was one of the highlights for Omaha Society because both bride and groom were from prominent families. Charles, a former Kentucky politician, was now a successful Omaha lawyer. But just two years after moving into their luxurious home, Charles was stricken with a terrible and debilitating illness. In 1898, he took his own life in despair, killing himself with a single shot to the head. Bertha was widowed with three young children. Their middle son, Jarvis, was the first Omaha to die in the line of duty during World War I. Today, nearby Offutt Air Force Base is named in his honor.
Manifestations in the Mansion
After Charles’ suicide, Anna and Casper Yost moved in with Bertha to provide support. They both lived there for the rest of their lives, dying in 1920, mere months apart. With her parents gone and her children grown, Bertha moved out and turned her former home into a rental. The property changed hands several times until it was rescued and restored as a historic inn.
At least three entities have been reported in the Cornerstone mansion:
– The apparition of an elderly man has been seen all over the house, most often just sitting in a parlor chair. Could this be the Ghost of Casper Yost, or perhaps that of a former tenant?
– A mischievous young male spirit has likewise been seen throughout the house? Could this be Jarvis Offutt, who spent almost his entire life there before dying for his country?
– The angry presence of a female spirit has been felt in the Carriage House. There is a rumor that a housekeeper named “Emily” was murdered there by her jealous chauffeur husband.
– Either Emily or another unhappy spirit sometimes manifests in the main house by throwing or breaking items.
When you are in Omaha, Nebraska, the Cornerstone Mansion is worth visiting for its Gothic architecture, ornate interior, and place in local history. But while you are there, keep your eyes open for the spirits of people who live there long ago but still reside there today.
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