Scared Of Ghosts? Illinois’ Oldest Hotel Might Not Be For You

Anytime I learn a building or home was constructed in the 1800s I assume it's haunted. I'm also irrationally terrified of paranormal activity. My anxiety peaks when I'm inside an old space, in fact, the thought alone makes me shaky and sweaty. When I read about the history and reviews of the Desoto House Hotel in Galena, Illinois I learned one thing, I will never set foot inside.

Desoto House Hotel was constructed in 1855 and welcome many guests including several who were famous. It's been described as "chic and welcoming." It's also been described as incredibly haunted. It's not only staff who claim the same is full of paranormal activity, paranormal investigators have also confirmed this. Most notably, one of the most mentioned "guests" at Illinois' oldest hotel doesn't have a name, only a description.

While the building was being worked on in 2011, contractors took down some drywall and learn there was a door there at one point. This might explain why "Lady in Black" can be seen walking into the wall.

Something about this plaque makes me uneasy. I feel like I would be less uncomfortable had they ignored the fact that a ghost in wandering this area. Way to own it though.

Ghosts Heard Partying Upstairs?

What is really strange are reports of multiple ghosts congregated above the third floor. This is especially odd considering the space where guests claim to hear a party happening is non-existent!

(The lowest level does not have guest rooms, therefore there are only "three" floors).

Check out this review left on Yelp.

Ghosts! Apparently, there are a lot of them here, especially if you stay on the third floor. Others have heard people partying on the non-existent floor above (it was razed due to disrepair many decades ago). Apparently, apparitions appear in the basement, too, and the restaurant has busted out a wall to commemorate a popular location.

That isn't the only review acknowledging paranormal activity. You can find more here.

[h/t Only In Your State]