NO. 330 Hamilton Turner Inn

Nestled in the heart of Savannah, Georgia, an area widely regarded as one of the most haunted cities in America, the Hamilton-Turner Inn is a historical gem with a fascinating, and allegedly, spectral past. It has the distinction of being the first home in Savannah with electricity, making it an instant source of fascination and conjecture in the late 19th century, adding an otherworldly allure to its stately architecture. The mansion’s history is riddled with intriguing tales of high society, sudden death, and ghostly encounters.

The Hamilton-Turner Inn started its life in 1873 as the luxurious private residence of Samuel Pugh Hamilton and his wife, Sarah Virginia. Hamilton, an affluent businessman, was known for his grand parties and was affectionately dubbed "Lord of Lafayette Square." It was said that Hamilton's wealth was so vast that he even employed two lookouts on the roof to announce the arrival of ships into the port, much to the fascination and envy of Savannah society.

Legend has it that some members of society were so envious of Hamilton that they predicted he'd be killed for his wealth. In a peculiar twist of fate, Hamilton did indeed die in his beloved home, although of natural causes. Following his death, eerie occurrences began. Guests and staff reported hearing billiard balls colliding in the mansion's parlor, reminiscent of Hamilton's love for late-night games. 

The mansion's second owner, Dr. Francis Turner, turned the building into a boarding house and, later, an orphanage. During this time, it's said that several children died due to the rampant outbreaks of yellow fever and other diseases of the time.

In modern times, guests of the inn have reported hearing the eerie sounds of children's laughter echoing through the halls at odd hours. Some even claim to have seen the apparitions of children playing in the corridors, only for them to vanish into thin air. 

Among the inn's spectral residents, one figure stands out due to its enigmatic nature - a Confederate soldier often seen on the rooftop, as if standing guard. Some speculate that this ghostly sentinel might be one of the lookouts employed by Hamilton, eternally carrying out his duties even in death.

Today, the Hamilton-Turner Inn serves as a bed-and-breakfast, welcoming guests from all over the world. Its luxurious appointments and grand architecture have been carefully preserved, offering visitors a taste of southern hospitality and a glimpse into Savannah's rich history.

And for those intrigued by the paranormal, the inn's spectral stories add an extra layer of fascination. The inn's staff are well-versed in the property's haunted lore and are always ready to share a ghostly tale or two. Many guests have reported inexplicable happenings, from strange noises to spectral apparitions, adding to the growing legend of this haunted mansion.

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