The Old Stone House – Haunted Historic Home in Shepherdstown, West Virginia

The Old Stone House in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, is one of the oldest surviving structures in the town, standing as a silent witness to centuries of history. Built in the early 1700s, this historic home has served various purposes over time, from a residence to a tavern.

But it is not just its age that draws attention—many locals and visitors believe it to be haunted. With eerie apparitions, mysterious noises, and an unsettling atmosphere, the Old Stone House has become a focal point of paranormal interest in West Virginia.

Historical Background

• Year Built: Early 1700s
• Original Purpose: Private residence, later a tavern
• Significant Events: Throughout its long history, the Old Stone House has seen wars, duels, and personal tragedies unfold within its walls. During the Civil War, Shepherdstown served as a makeshift hospital town after the bloody Battle of Antietam, and many buildings, including the Old Stone House, reportedly housed wounded soldiers. Some of these men are believed never to have left. There are also rumors of a violent death that took place on the property, potentially tied to a former owner or guest.

Paranormal Activity Summary

• Common Occurrences: Cold spots, shadowy figures, and unexplained whispers
• Patterns: Visitors report feeling watched, hearing disembodied footsteps, and noticing objects moving on their own. Lights flicker inexplicably, and doors open and close with no logical explanation.
• Notable Ghosts: The most frequently seen apparition is that of a man in old-fashioned clothing, possibly a former owner or Civil War soldier. Others have reported the spirit of a woman in a long dress appearing near the stairwell. Some even claim to hear a child laughing when no children are present.

Ghost Stories & Reports

• The Tavern Keeper’s Ghost: When the building operated as a tavern, it was rumored that a jealous brawl led to a fatal stabbing on the premises. Some believe the victim lingers in the house, as guests have reported seeing a shadowy figure standing in the doorway, only for it to vanish upon approach.
• The Weeping Woman: Many have reported seeing a sorrowful woman near the upper-floor windows, gazing outside as if waiting for someone to return. Legend has it she was a widow whose husband never came back from war.
• The Playful Child: Some visitors hear the giggling of a child and feel small, cold hands brushing against their own, even when no children are around.

Most Haunted Spot Inside

The upstairs bedroom is considered the most haunted area of the house. Visitors frequently report the sensation of being watched, and some have seen ghostly figures reflected in the room’s antique mirror. Paranormal investigators have recorded unexplained voices and knocking sounds coming from inside the room when no one was there.

Can You Visit?

• Open to the Public? Yes, but with limited access
• Entry Fee: Varies depending on tour availability
• Tour Availability: Occasional guided ghost tours offered by local historical societies
• Photography Allowed? Yes, but no flash photography inside
• Visiting Hours: By appointment or during special events

Best Time to Visit

Fall and winter are considered the best times to visit, particularly around October when paranormal activity seems to be at its peak.

Paranormal Investigations & Findings

The Old Stone House has been the subject of several paranormal investigations. Ghost hunting teams have captured EVPs (electronic voice phenomena) of voices responding to questions and unexplained temperature drops in certain rooms. Some investigators claim to have seen shadow figures moving across the walls when no one else was present.

Safety Warnings & Legal Restrictions

While the house is open for historical tours, visitors are advised not to wander into restricted areas, as some parts of the structure are fragile due to age. Unauthorized nighttime visits are prohibited, and trespassing is strictly enforced.

With its rich history and chilling ghostly encounters, the Old Stone House in Shepherdstown remains one of West Virginia’s most intriguing haunted locations. Whether you’re a believer in the paranormal or just a curious traveler, stepping inside this historic home is an experience you won’t soon forget.