Paxton Manor – Haunted Mansion in Leesburg, Virginia
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Full Address: 104 Church St SE Suite 201, Leesburg, VA 20175, United States
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Paxton Manor in Leesburg, Virginia, is one of the most notoriously haunted locations in the state. Originally built in the late 19th century, this grand yet eerie mansion has a dark history of tragedy, mental illness, and mysterious occurrences.
Now known as the site of the popular haunted attraction Shocktober, the manor is infamous for ghostly apparitions, chilling whispers, and unexplained movements. Many believe the spirits of former residents, particularly children, still linger within its walls.
Historical Background
- Year Built: 1872
- Original Purpose: Private residence for the Paxton family
- Significant Events:
- Built by Charles Paxton, a wealthy businessman, the mansion later became a home for orphaned and abandoned children.
- Over the years, numerous deaths occurred within the mansion, including reports of children passing away under mysterious circumstances.
- The property has been used for various community programs, but eerie paranormal reports have persisted.
- Today, the mansion is famous for Shocktober, an annual haunted house event that capitalizes on its chilling history.
Paranormal Activity Summary
Visitors and paranormal investigators have reported a variety of supernatural experiences, including:
- Shadow figures lurking in hallways, often seen near the basement.
- Disembodied voices and laughter, particularly from what sounds like children.
- Sudden temperature drops and unexplained cold spots.
- Doors creaking open and slamming shut on their own.
- Unsettling feelings of being watched, especially in the attic.
- Objects moving without explanation, including furniture and small personal belongings.
By the way, have you visited this haunted place in Virginia State? First Landing State Park – Haunted Coastal Park in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Ghost Stories & Reports
The Whispering Children
One of the most chilling reports from Paxton Manor involves ghostly children’s voices. Visitors claim to hear giggling, whispering, and even small footsteps in empty rooms. Some say they have seen tiny handprints appear on fogged-up windows when no children are present.
The Woman in White
A ghostly woman in a flowing white dress has been spotted on the second floor. Some believe she is a former caretaker of the orphanage, still watching over the spirits of the children. Witnesses report seeing her glide across rooms before vanishing into thin air.
The Haunted Basement
The basement is considered the most terrifying part of the manor. Visitors have reported seeing a dark, looming shadow figure standing at the far end of the room. Some claim to feel an invisible force pressing on their chest, as if something doesn’t want them there.
The Flickering Lights
Staff members frequently report lights flickering and electrical malfunctions, despite no wiring issues. Some believe this is a playful spirit trying to communicate with the living.
Speaking of haunted places, don’t forget to also check this place in Virginia State? The Cavalier Hotel – Haunted Luxury Hotel in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Most Haunted Spot Inside
The attic and basement are said to be the most active areas. Many visitors feel an overwhelming sense of dread in these spaces, with some even reporting nausea or unexplained dizziness. Paranormal investigators have recorded some of their most chilling EVPs in these rooms.
The paranormal doesn’t stop here—this haunted place might also interest you in Virginia State? Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historic State Park – Haunted Civil War Battlefield in Rice, Virginia
Can You Visit?
- Open to the Public? Yes (for special events like Shocktober)
- Entry Fee: Varies depending on event pricing
- Tour Availability: Limited to haunted house attractions and occasional paranormal investigations
- Photography Allowed? Yes
- Visiting Hours: Seasonal, typically during the Halloween season
Best Time to Visit
The fall season, especially during Shocktober, is the best time to experience Paxton Manor’s eerie atmosphere. Ghostly activity is reportedly highest in October and November, with many visitors claiming to have supernatural encounters.
Paranormal Investigations & Findings
Paxton Manor has been investigated by numerous paranormal teams, capturing:
- EVP recordings of whispers and unexplained voices.
- Thermal camera footage showing shadowy figures.
- Unusual electromagnetic field (EMF) spikes in the attic and basement.
Safety Warnings & Legal Restrictions
- Some areas are off-limits due to safety concerns and structural integrity.
- Visitors report intense feelings of unease and dizziness, particularly in the basement.
- Trespassing outside of official events is strictly prohibited, as the property is monitored.
With its haunted history and chilling encounters, Paxton Manor remains one of Virginia’s most notorious paranormal locations. Whether visiting for history, ghost hunting, or a haunted attraction, this mansion holds secrets waiting to be uncovered.