Today’s society holds a certain fascination with all things paranormal and supernatural. It’s human nature to be curious, and some more than others really enjoy exploring these phenomena. South Carolina has plenty of such opportunities, and it stands to reason that some of the oldest places in the state would be a good starting point. In fact, one haunted hotel in South Carolina, the John Rutledge House Inn, is the state’s oldest hotel.
The hotel was built in 1763 and currently serves as both an inn and a national historic landmark.
John Rutledge House Inn/TripAdvisor
Originally, it was built as a home by John Rutledge, one of the 55 signers of the U.S. Constitution, for his new bride, Elizabeth Grimke.
EvanGuthrie/TripAdvisor Presidents George Washington and William Taft have both been hosted in this home. You can feel the rich history and atmosphere throughout the property.
You also could feel some other things during your stay. It’s said that a young girl died in a fire here years ago, and her ghost is believed to reside at the hotel now.
Johner Images/Getty Images
If you happen to feel a little jarred during the night and wake to find your pillow on the floor, well, the girl’s spirit is said to have pulled pillows out from under patrons’ heads before.
John Rutledge House Inn Some have reported an odd smell of smoke and believe this to be an indicator that she is present.
Stories have also been told of her presence running in the hallway.
John Rutledge House Inn/YouTube
There have been times when lights were turned off or on, but not by a human being in the room.
spikenails/TripAdvisor
Reports of her watching through the windows have also been shared.
John Rutledge House Inn/Facebook
Spooky incidents aside, the hotel has endless charm.
John Rutledge House Inn/Facebook The gorgeous gates and piazza were crafted by 19th-century wrought iron manufacturer, artisan, and entrepreneur Christopher Werner.
If you don’t mind the possibility of harmless pranks being pulled by the girl’s ghost, you can enjoy complimentary tea, lemonade, or sherry in the second-floor ballroom where early versions of the Constitution were drafted and where George Washington was entertained in 1791.
John Rutledge House Inn/Facebook
The service from the hotel staff is top-notch. Breakfast, ordered the night ahead, is brought wherever you’d like. The piazza is a popular choice among guests.
Laurie E/TripAdvisor
There are pet-friendly rooms available as well as a close-up photo-op to commemorate your stay at such a special one-of-a-kind piece of history.
John Rutledge House Inn/Facebook The inn loves pets and even offers an A Dog’s World Package for guests. Other types of packages are available as well, including a Foodies’ Paradise Package, Party of Two Elopement, the Charleston Girls’ Getaway Package, and more. Such fun!
You can see a virtual tour of the inn here:
John Rutledge House Inn/TripAdvisor
EvanGuthrie/TripAdvisor
Presidents George Washington and William Taft have both been hosted in this home. You can feel the rich history and atmosphere throughout the property.
Johner Images/Getty Images
John Rutledge House Inn
Some have reported an odd smell of smoke and believe this to be an indicator that she is present.
John Rutledge House Inn/YouTube
spikenails/TripAdvisor
John Rutledge House Inn/Facebook
The gorgeous gates and piazza were crafted by 19th-century wrought iron manufacturer, artisan, and entrepreneur Christopher Werner.
Laurie E/TripAdvisor
The inn loves pets and even offers an A Dog’s World Package for guests. Other types of packages are available as well, including a Foodies’ Paradise Package, Party of Two Elopement, the Charleston Girls’ Getaway Package, and more. Such fun!
Visit the John Rutledge House Inn Facebook page or the John Rutledge House Inn website for more information and to make your reservation. Whether you’re chosen for one of the girl’s pranks or not, it’s sure to be an unforgettable memory you’ll treasure.
Have you ever stayed here or in any other haunted place overnight? Share all about it with us in the comments below!
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Address: John Rutledge House Inn ®, 116 Broad St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
