The Grove in Jefferson, Texas is a historic and picturesque home that is as beautiful as it is eerie. Though it has been over a century and a half since it was built, the home still stands as a testament to the grandeur of the antebellum era in Texas. But it is not just the history of the home that draws people to it – it is also the stories of its ghosts.
The History of The Grove
The Grove was built in 1861 by a wealthy merchant named William Thomas. The home was constructed in the Greek Revival style and was one of the largest and most impressive homes in Jefferson at the time. The home was used as a headquarters for Confederate General John Bankhead Magruder during the Civil War, and it is said that Magruder himself once danced in the grand ballroom of the home.
After the war, The Grove was purchased by a man named James Franks, who added a third story and a widow’s walk to the home. Franks and his family lived in the home for several decades before it was eventually sold to the State of Texas in the 1940s. Today, the home is owned by the Texas Historical Commission and is open to the public for tours.
The Hauntings of The Grove
Though The Grove is now a popular tourist attraction, it is also one of the most haunted homes in Texas. The most famous ghost that is said to haunt the home is that of a woman named Susan who died in the home in the mid-1800s. Susan was engaged to be married to William Thomas, but she died before they could be married. It is said that her ghost still wanders the halls of The Grove, looking for her lost love.
There have been numerous reports of paranormal activity at The Grove over the years. Visitors and staff have reported hearing footsteps, voices, and music when no one is around. There have also been reports of doors opening and closing on their own, and of objects moving by themselves.
One of the most famous stories about The Grove involves a group of construction workers who were hired to renovate the home in the 1990s. The workers reported seeing the ghost of Susan, as well as the ghost of a Confederate soldier. Some of the workers even quit their jobs because they were so scared.
In addition to the ghosts of Susan and the Confederate soldier, there have also been reports of other spirits at The Grove. Visitors have reported seeing the ghost of a little girl, as well as the apparition of a man in a top hat.
Conclusion
The Grove in Jefferson, Texas is a beautiful and historic home that has played an important role in the history of Texas. But it is also a place where the paranormal and the supernatural seem to intersect. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there is no denying that The Grove is a fascinating and intriguing place. If you are ever in Jefferson, be sure to take a tour of The Grove – you never know what you might experience.