| |
|
|
The Octagon House Located at 1799 New York Avenue, a short distance to the East of the White House in Washington, The Octagon House survived the burning of Washington during the War of 1812 by the stratagem of suddenly declaring the house the French embassy (This probably only worked because Napoleon had already been defeated.) In 1814, the house was used by President James Madison and his wife as a temporary "Executive Mansion" from September 1814 to October 1815. Madison signed the ratification papers for the Treaty of Ghent therein February 1815. The Octagon House is reported to be haunted. Apparitions have reportedly been seen, heard or felt in many places at The Octagon. A number of deaths occurred from people falling down the spiral staircase in the house, making it the main locus of spiritual sightings. Other sighting locations include several of the landings, the third floor bedroom, and the garden area. Among the eyewitnesses have been guests, and curators and other employees hired by the museum which owns the house. A common occurrence in the house is bell ringing by sources unknown; even when the bell ropes are being held to prevent them from being rung. Dolley Madison's spirit has been reported near the fireplace in the main ballroom as well as heading through a closed door to the garden, and her ghost's presence is accompanied by the smell of lilacs. A woman, supposedly killed by a British soldier during the War of 1812, has been seen by eyewitnesses who have also heard her scream. A uniformed British soldier in War of 1812 dress was seen by caretaker James Cypress and museum director Alric Clay claimed that spirits would often turn on the lights as well as opening The Octagon's locked doors at night. Various witnesses have also reported hearing assorted moans, screams, and footsteps.
|
|