Mysterious Adventures Await: Explore the Haunted Mark Twain House this Spooky Season

Julia Pecora ’25

Features Editor

As the crisp autumn air settles in, and the leaves begin to fall, there’s an eerie atmosphere surrounding the Mark Twain House, the Victorian home of the famed author Samuel Clemens, also known as Mark Twain. Located near Trinity, this historic mansion has gained notoriety not just for its owner’s literary significance, but also for its haunting tales and unexplained occurrences.

Reports of paranormal activities, including sightings of a mysterious lady in white and the lingering scent of cigar smoke, have intrigued visitors and investigators alike. The house, adorned with Tiffany decor and ornate carvings, exudes an air of spookiness, making it a perfect destination for thrill-seekers during the Halloween season.

Featured on popular TV shows such as “Ghost Hunters,” “Ghost Hunters Academy,” and Biography Channel’s “My Ghost Story,” the Mark Twain House has become a hub for paranormal enthusiasts. Even renowned paranormal investigator Lorraine Warren was drawn to explore the mysteries within the Mark Twain House! The house is currently hosting its “Graveyard Shift Ghost Tours” through the fall season, offering visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the spiritualist movement of the late 1800s and early 1900s and explore the home of the late author.

The “Graveyard Shift Ghost Tours” offer an immersive experience, delving into the tragedies that influenced Twain’s belief in the supernatural. Trained “historic interpreters” guide visitors through the mansion, sharing chilling stories and their encounters with the inexplicable. Each tour is unique, providing a fresh perspective on the haunted history of the Mark Twain House.

Grace Belanger, assistant manager of interpretation at the Mark Twain House, shared her experiences and insights about the supernatural occurrences within the mansion with the team of the show “Ghost Hunters.” Belanger revealed that the house has been investigated multiple times by paranormal experts from TAPS (The Atlantic Paranormal Society). These investigations have led to the discovery of unexplained phenomena, further fueling the mystique surrounding the Mark Twain House.

The Mark Twain House & Museum invites curious minds to explore its halls and perhaps catch a glimpse of the spirits that dwell within. Whether you are a history geek, a literature lover, or a paranormal enthusiast, this historic landmark promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you questioning the boundaries between the living and the supernatural.

The “Graveyard Shift Ghost Tours” offer a thrilling adventure for those seeking a spine-chilling experience this spooky season. The tours are a testament to the enduring fascination with the supernatural and the historical significance of the Mark Twain House, making it a must-visit destination for all ghost enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Tickets are priced at $29 for adults and $21 for children aged 10 to 16 (not recommended for children under 10). To reserve your tickets and embark on this ghostly adventure, visit the official Mark Twain House website.