Peyton Randolph House – Haunted Colonial Mansion in Williamsburg, Virginia

The Peyton Randolph House in Williamsburg, Virginia, is one of the most paranormally active locations in the state. Built in the 18th century, this historic home witnessed war, political intrigue, and untimely deaths.

The house has a chilling reputation, with reports of shadowy figures, strange noises, and eerie sensations overwhelming visitors. Many believe the spirits of those who suffered tragic fates within its walls still roam the house, making it a hotspot for paranormal investigations.

Historical Background

• Year Built: 1715
• Original Purpose: Private residence for prominent political figures
• Significant Events:
  • The house belonged to Peyton Randolph, the first President of the Continental Congress, who mysteriously died here in 1775.
  • During the Revolutionary War, it served as a hospital, where many soldiers died in agony.
  • Enslaved individuals lived and worked on the property, with many suffering abuse and tragedy.
  • Multiple deaths occurred inside the house, including visitors, residents, and servants, fueling its haunted legacy.

Paranormal Activity Summary

Visitors frequently report unexplained cold spots, disembodied voices, and feelings of being watched. Some of the most commonly reported supernatural events include:

• Doors opening and closing on their own.
• Heavy footsteps echoing through empty hallways.
• Sudden drops in temperature when entering certain rooms.
• Unseen hands tugging on clothing or pushing visitors.
• Dark shadow figures moving through the home at night.

Ghost Stories & Reports

The Ghostly Soldier

During its time as a wartime hospital, many wounded soldiers died inside the house. Visitors report seeing a spectral figure dressed in colonial military attire wandering the halls, moaning in pain before disappearing. Some even claim to hear faint cries of suffering when the house is quiet.

The Mysterious Woman

A woman in a blue dress has been seen in the upstairs window. Many believe she was a former resident who met a tragic fate. Guides and guests have witnessed her staring solemnly outside before vanishing.

Unrested Spirits of the Enslaved

Many believe the spirits of enslaved individuals who lived and died here still linger. Some visitors have felt an oppressive presence in certain areas, accompanied by whispers or muffled cries. Others report the feeling of being touched or watched in the basement, where enslaved people once worked.

Most Haunted Spot Inside

The upstairs bedrooms are considered the most active. Many visitors feel intense unease upon entering, with some experiencing nausea, dizziness, or sudden chest tightness. Paranormal investigators have recorded high levels of electromagnetic activity in these rooms, suggesting supernatural presence.

Can You Visit?

• Open to the Public? Yes
• Entry Fee: Included in Colonial Williamsburg tour packages
• Tour Availability: Daytime historical tours; seasonal ghost tours at night
• Photography Allowed? Yes (restricted inside)
• Visiting Hours: Vary depending on the season

Best Time to Visit

The fall months, especially around Halloween, are the most active times for paranormal encounters. Many visitors report experiencing the most ghostly activity at night.

Paranormal Investigations & Findings

The Peyton Randolph House has been featured on multiple paranormal TV shows. Investigators using EVP (electronic voice phenomena) recorders have captured whispers, moans, and even names spoken in the darkness. Ghost hunters have also reported unexplained fluctuations in EMF readings and sudden malfunctions of their equipment inside the home.

Safety Warnings & Legal Restrictions

• Some visitors have fainted due to intense feelings of unease or dizziness inside the house.
• The house is monitored by security at night, and trespassing is strictly prohibited.
• Certain areas, especially the basement, have restricted access due to safety concerns.