Hotel Eklund in Haunted New Mexico

Unraveling the Hauntings of New Mexico’s Hotel Eklund

In the heart of the American Southwest, where vast landscapes meet the tales of old and where history and folklore intertwine, lies a relic of times gone by: the Hotel Eklund. Nestled within Clayton, New Mexico, this seemingly inconspicuous establishment holds stories as captivating as they are enigmatic. Since its inception in the late 19th century, the haunted Hotel Eklund has witnessed the ebb and flow of history, from the bustling days of the Wild West to the modern era, all the while accumulating a trove of tales that blur the lines between the living and the spectral.

To many, the Hotel Eklund stands as a beacon of architectural beauty, a window into the region’s rich past. To others, especially those attuned to the whispers of the otherworldly, it’s a place where energies from bygone eras still roam, echoing their stories in hushed tones. Accounts of ghostly apparitions, unexplained sounds, and that indescribable feeling of ‘being watched’ have tantalized both paranormal enthusiasts and skeptics alike, luring them into its historic embrace.

But what truly lies behind the ornate facade of the Hotel Eklund? Is it merely the sum of its tangible bricks, mortar, and timeworn guest logs? Or is there something more, something ethereal, that lurks within its corridors? As we embark on this journey to uncover the essence of one of New Mexico’s most haunted landmarks, we’ll delve deep into its past, sift through its legends, and attempt to decode the enigma that is the Hotel Eklund.

Address: 15 Main St, Clayton, NM 88415
URL: https://hoteleklund.com

The History of Hotel Eklund

The Hotel Eklund in Clayton, New Mexico, stands as a symbol of the Old West and serves as a reminder of the region’s vibrant history. Here’s a brief overview of its past:

Origins and Construction:
The Hotel Eklund was built in 1892 by Carl W. Eklund, a Swedish immigrant. He constructed the building using bricks made of native clay. Originally, the hotel was a two-story structure, with the ground floor housing a bar and the second floor offering accommodations.

Boom of the Cattle Trade:
During its early years, the hotel thrived due to its proximity to the burgeoning cattle trade. Clayton was a significant cattle shipping center during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Hotel Eklund, being one of the primary establishments in the area, became a favorite stopover for cowboys, ranchers, and other travelers.

Prohibition Era:
During the Prohibition era, it’s rumored that the hotel’s basement was used for bootlegging operations, making it a hotspot for clandestine activities.

Renovations and Expansions:
Over the years, the hotel underwent several renovations and expansions. An additional floor was added to the hotel, providing more guest rooms.

Modern Day:
In more recent times, the Hotel Eklund has been restored to capture its historical charm. Many of the rooms still hold antique furnishings, allowing guests to experience a taste of the Old West.

Today, the Hotel Eklund remains an important landmark in Clayton, serving both as a functioning hotel and a testament to the town’s rich past. Whether you’re interested in historical architecture, the wild tales of the Old West, or ghostly legends, the Hotel Eklund has something to offer.

The Hauntings at Hotel Eklund

The Hotel Eklund in Clayton, New Mexico, has indeed earned a reputation among paranormal enthusiasts and local lore aficionados as being haunted. As is the case with many historical buildings that have been around for over a century, tales of ghostly encounters and unexplained events have become associated with the property.

Here are some of the alleged hauntings and paranormal claims associated with the Haunted Hotel:

1. Ghostly Apparitions: There have been reports from guests and staff of seeing apparitions, including the figure of a woman in Victorian attire. Some believe this to be the spirit of a former guest or possibly someone linked to the hotel’s early history.
2. Unexplained Sounds: Over the years, numerous accounts have surfaced of mysterious sounds, including footsteps in the halls when no one is present, the sound of children laughing, or even the distant murmur of voices from empty rooms.
3. Cold Spots: It’s not uncommon for visitors to report sudden, unexplainable cold spots in certain areas of the hotel, a phenomenon often linked with paranormal activity.
4. Objects Moving: Some tales involve objects that appear to move on their own, suggesting some form of poltergeist activity.
5. Feelings of Being Watched: A more intangible, yet frequently reported experience, is the sensation of being observed or not being alone, even when there’s no one else nearby.

It’s essential to approach these accounts with a balanced perspective. While many firmly believe in the paranormal occurrences at the Hotel Eklund, others feel that such stories can be attributed to the natural creaks and groans of an old building, the power of suggestion, or even just the imaginative human mind interpreting events. Regardless of one’s personal beliefs about the paranormal, there’s no denying that the Hotel Eklund boasts a rich history and atmosphere that can make it easy to imagine spirits from the past lingering in its corridors.

Can I Ghost Hunt at the Hotel Eklund?

If you’re interested in conducting a ghost hunt or paranormal investigation at the Hotel Eklund or any other establishment, there are several important steps and considerations to keep in mind:

1. Permission: Always contact the establishment ahead of time to inquire about conducting a paranormal investigation. Some hotels, including historical ones, may be open to allowing investigations, especially during non-peak times, while others might have strict policies against it.
2. Fees: Some locations may charge a fee for allowing a paranormal investigation, especially if it’s after regular business hours or requires the involvement of hotel staff.
3. Respect: Whether or not you encounter any paranormal activity, always be respectful of the property. This includes not disturbing other guests, avoiding damage to the property, and cleaning up after yourself.
4. Safety: Hotels, especially older ones, can have areas that are not safe for guests or investigators. Always adhere to any safety guidelines or restricted areas provided by the hotel.
5. Equipment: If you’re serious about your investigation, you might want to bring along equipment like digital voice recorders, infrared cameras, electromagnetic field (EMF) meters, and more. However, always ensure your equipment doesn’t disturb other guests or interfere with the hotel’s operations.
6. Documentation: Document your findings and experiences. Not only does this provide a record of your visit, but it can also be useful for analysis later.

If you’re specifically interested in investigating the Hotel Eklund, your best approach would be to contact the hotel directly, inquire about their policies, and express your intentions and respect for the property.

Recommended Ghost Hunting Equipment at the Hotel Eklund

Find More Ghost Hunting Equipment Here

As our journey through the echoing corridors of Hotel Eklund comes to a close, we find ourselves not just stepping out of a historical establishment, but also transitioning from one world to another — from the tangible to the ethereal, from the seen to the unseen. The tales of ghostly apparitions, unexplained phenomena, and the mysterious ambiance of this venerable inn have woven a tapestry of intrigue that few places can match.

But beyond the allure of the paranormal, there’s an even more profound narrative at play. The Hotel Eklund stands as a testament to the countless lives that have passed through its doors, each leaving an indelible mark, a story, a memory. Whether these memories manifest as spectral shadows or simply nostalgic tales shared over a warm drink, they form the soul of this iconic establishment.

For those who seek the thrill of the unknown, Hotel Eklund beckons with open arms, promising a dance with the mysteries of the past. But for every visitor, whether believer or skeptic, the hotel offers a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of human experiences, emotions, and tales that transcend time.

As we depart from Clayton’s historic gem, may we carry with us not just tales of phantoms and eerie occurrences, but also an appreciation for places like Hotel Eklund that keep the past alive, reminding us of the thin veil that separates yesterday from today, reality from legend.

Until our next haunted adventure, may the stories of Hotel Eklund inspire curiosity, reflection, and perhaps, a gentle nudge to look twice at that shadow in the corner of your room.