Belcourt Castle is a staple of history on Rhode Island, but its beauty and allure is not just enjoyed by the living. Many residents and visitors to the property have reported paranormal activity and frightening encounters within its walls.
Belcourt Castle was first erected in 1891 by Oliver Belmont. Originally built as a summer home and bachelor pad, Belmont designed the property with the help of his soon-to-be wife Alva Vanderbilt and the same architect behind the Breakers and the Marble House. Over the next 100+ years, many families have called this property home. As of 2012, jewelry company owner Carolyn Rafaelian has been working to carefully restore the property while maintaining its original charm. You can now book 50-minute guided tours of the locale on Fridays and weekends. Belcourt Castle is a true example of Rhode Island culture and history, but it does have an sinister secret.
It has been said that spirits attach themselves to items at Belcourt Castle. Harle and Donald Tinney lived and wed in the home. They were avid collectors of antiques and international treasures from around the world, many of which have reported instances of spirits attaching themselves to. Harle herself even encountered a variety of unexplainable enigmas while living in the home. One particular set of items that are reportedly haunted are the two Gothic-style chairs that stay in the Grand Ballroom. One woman allegedly tried to sit on the chair and was thrown off of it into the middle of the room. Since that incident, the chairs have been roped off to avoid further occurrences. There is also a suit of armor which reportedly moves. What’s even eerier, is that visitors have reported hearing faint screams and moans shortly after. Would you have the courage to visit Belcourt Castle?
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