Thornewood Castle
Built as a labor of love by Chester Thorne for his bride Anna in 1911, this 27,000-square-foot Tudor Gothic mansion represents an unprecedented architectural achievement in American history. Thorne, a prominent banker and businessman, spared no expense in creating his masterpiece, having centuries-old bricks and stained glass windows shipped piece by piece from England’s Warwick Castle to construct what would become known as “the house that love built.”
The castle’s most persistent ghostly resident is believed to be Anna Thorne herself, whose dedication to the garden and home seems to transcend death. Guests and staff regularly report seeing a well-dressed woman in period clothing tending to the sunken garden she so lovingly created. These sightings often occur in the early morning hours, with witnesses describing the figure suddenly vanishing when approached, leaving behind only the lingering scent of fresh flowers.
Chester Thorne’s spirit is also said to maintain a presence in his former domain, particularly in his former study. Security cameras have captured inexplicable light anomalies in this room, while visitors report feeling an overwhelming sense of being watched. Some have even described seeing the reflection of a distinguished gentleman in the room’s windows, only to turn and find the space empty.
One of the castle’s most intriguing supernatural phenomena centers around the grand staircase. Multiple witnesses have reported seeing a small boy playing with a red ball that bounces down the stairs, though no children have lived in the castle for decades. The sound of the phantom ball bouncing has been captured on numerous audio recordings, adding to the mystery.
The castle’s rich history took a darker turn during World War II when it served as a convalescent center for Navy veterans. Some paranormal investigators suggest that this period added another layer to the property’s supernatural energy, with reports of phantom footsteps in empty corridors and the sounds of military boots marching on hardwood floors.
Perhaps the most compelling paranormal activity occurs in the master bedroom, where both Chester and Anna passed away. Guests staying in this room have reported beds shaking, lights turning on and off independently, and the distinct feeling of someone sitting on the edge of their bed. Some have even awakened to find their belongings mysteriously rearranged.
The castle’s massive oak front door, weighing over 400 pounds, has been known to open and close on its own, particularly during special events. Staff members have witnessed this phenomenon multiple times, with some suggesting that Anna’s spirit continues to play the role of gracious hostess, welcoming guests to her beloved home.
Modern-day visitors to Thornewood Castle, which now operates as a bed and breakfast and event venue, often report unexplained phenomena. Photographers capturing wedding pictures have noticed mysterious figures in period clothing appearing in their photos, only to vanish in subsequent shots. Others have reported seeing shadows moving across the great hall when no one else is present.
The castle’s stunning gardens, meticulously restored to Anna’s original vision, seem to hold their own supernatural energy. Groundskeepers have reported tools moving on their own and the sound of someone humming while working in the garden early in the morning. Many believe this to be Anna, still tending to her beloved flowers.
Today, Thornewood Castle maintains its reputation as both a luxurious destination and a haunted landmark. Unlike many haunted locations, the supernatural presence here seems more benevolent than malevolent, with Chester and Anna’s spirits appearing to simply continue their roles as gracious hosts, watching over their dream home and its guests.
The castle’s blend of romantic history, architectural splendor, and supernatural mystery continues to draw visitors from around the world, each hoping to experience a glimpse of the enduring love story that built this magnificent structure. Whether encountered through its ghost stories or its grandeur, Thornewood Castle remains a unique testament to how love can create a legacy that truly transcends time.