Delaware is a state with a fascinating history and breathtaking coastline. However, it also has its share of spine-chilling stories and haunted locations. One such place that sends shivers down the spine is the Addy Sea Inn. This picturesque bed and breakfast, located in the serene Bethany Beach, boasts a beautiful Victorian-style design. Despite its elegance, it has gained a notorious reputation for being amongst the most haunted places in Delaware. The Addy Sea Inn has been featured in numerous television shows and books, and its sinister reputation is justified by several reasons.
The Haunted History of the Addy Sea Inn
John M. Addy, a successful banker with a vision to create an English coastal estate, founded the Addy Sea Inn in 1902. The inn was named after John and his wife, Sarah, who, unfortunately, passed away soon after its completion. Over the years, the ownership of the house changed hands several times before it was acquired by the Gravatte family in 1986, who transformed it into a charming bed and breakfast.
As the Gravatte family worked on restoring their property to its former glory, they unexpectedly came across a collection of unsettling secrets. Upon investigation, they uncovered a troubled past marked by a series of unfortunate deaths, including two drownings, a lightning strike, and a mysterious fire that tragically claimed the life of a young boy. According to legend, these fatalities were attributed to a curse placed on the house by a covetous neighbor who coveted the land.
The Ghostly Guests of the Addy Sea Inn
The Addy Sea Inn, with its 13 rooms, has a reputation for being haunted. However, three rooms stand out as being particularly popular with spirits of former residents and guests. Room number 1 is infamous for its copper bathtub that shakes violently for no apparent reason. Guests have even reported feeling as though their ankles were being grabbed or seeing faces in the water while taking a bath.
As you wander through the halls of the hotel, you can’t help but notice the mystical sounds emanating from room number 6. Despite the absence of an organ within the room, eerie organ music echoes from its walls. Locals believe that the ghostly music is the work of Paul Delaney, a former employee who passed away from a heart attack in that very room. Paul was a dedicated organist who loved to play for the hotel guests, and it seems that his passion for music continues to linger even after death.
Room number 11 of the hotel is believed to be haunted by none other than John M. Addy himself. Guests have reported doors being manipulated, lights flickering on and off, and objects being relocated, all signs of his presence. Some have even claimed to have seen his apparition dressed in a red smoking jacket, either sitting in a chair or walking around the room. Despite his haunting reputation, this friendly ghost seems to be driven by a desire to ensure the comfort of his guests.
Guests who have stayed at the Addy Sea Inn have reported encounters with more than just the three well-known spirits. They have also claimed to see a spectral woman dressed in white running through the hallways at night, a ghostly dog that barks and scratches at doors, and a floral fragrance that permeates the air. In addition, some curious guests have captured orbs, shadows, and disembodied voices on their cameras and audio recorders.
The Paranormal Investigations of the Addy Sea Inn
The allure of Addy Sea Inn has captivated many paranormal enthusiasts and investigators, all seeking to witness the eerie phenomena within its walls. This establishment has even been featured on popular TV shows such as Ghost Hunters in 2015 and CBS3 Mysteries in 2017.
Dennis William Hauck’s “The National Directory of Haunted Places” and Patricia A. Martinelli’s “Haunted Delaware: Ghosts and Strange Phenomena of the First State” have also included it in their books.
If you are someone who is intrigued by the history and paranormal happenings of the Addy Sea Inn, then you can opt for their ghost tours and paranormal events. During these tours, well-informed guides take you through the inn, divulging stories and presenting evidence of eerie encounters.
Visitors to the inn can experience a range of thrilling activities, including psychic readings, séances, and EVP sessions. For those who enjoy a good scare, the inn also hosts special Halloween parties and murder mystery dinners, providing an extra layer of excitement and intrigue.
In Conclusion
The Addy Sea Inn is not your typical bed and breakfast. In fact, it’s considered one of Delaware’s most haunted locations, with a history that’s shrouded in mystery and tragedy. As a result, it’s not uncommon to encounter the spirits of former inhabitants wandering through the inn’s rooms and corridors. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an exciting adventure, the Addy Sea Inn invites all who dare to explore this charming Delaware beachside destination.
