Exploring the Legacy of The Chase House
Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire, The Chase House stands as a beacon of history and mystery, with roots stretching back to 1762. Originally built by a prosperous merchant, the house was later named after Stephen Chase, a subsequent owner who purchased the property in 1799. The Chase family’s legacy continued until 1881, following the death of Stephen’s wife, Sarah. Their grandson, George, generously donated the structure to the city, marking the beginning of its transformation into a cornerstone of community service.
By 1877, The Chase House took on a new role as an orphanage, becoming New Hampshire’s oldest non-profit organization dedicated to child welfare. The evolution continued as it shifted focus in 1960 towards serving as a youth treatment program. Significant restoration efforts in 1965 by Strawbery Banke highlighted its architectural and historical importance, ensuring that The Chase House would continue to serve community needs. Over the years, it has introduced various programs aimed at supporting at-risk youths, including home-based services in 2012 and an Independent Living program in 2014 to aid young adults transitioning to independence while maintaining access to essential services.
The Ghostly Lore of The Chase House
Amid its noble service, The Chase House is shrouded in tales of the paranormal, earning it a reputation as one of the most haunted locations in New Hampshire. Since its days as an orphanage, eerie occurrences and ghostly sightings have been part of its mystique. A particularly chilling story involves a young girl who is said to have taken her own life in the house. Visitors and staff report sightings of her spectral figure wandering the corridors, only to vanish when approached. Her presence is also marked by unexplained phenomena such as sudden screams from her former room, doors unlocking by themselves, and mysterious power outages.
But she isn’t the only spirit said to dwell within these walls. Other spectral sounds like footsteps and disembodied screams suggest that she might be joined by other apparitions, each adding a layer to the chilling atmosphere of The Chase House.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a seeker of the supernatural, The Chase House offers a unique glimpse into the past and an intriguing encounter with the unexplained. As it continues to serve the community, it also beckons those curious about its haunted heritage to explore its storied halls.
Leave a Reply