Where the ghosts roam: D.C.'s familiar haunts
By: Nancy Dunham
Special to The Examiner
October 23, 2009
You can create your own "ghost tour" by visiting some of the buildings in and around Washington where paranormal experiences reportedly occurred.
Here are some places to get you started:
* The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Chances are pretty fair that you won't get inside the Lincoln Bedroom where the ghost activity reportedly has occurred, but you can walk by the house, anyway.
* The Stephen Decatur House, 748 Jackson Place NW. Guides in the house of this Navy hero who died during a duel report ghostly activity and a heavy aura of sadness.
* Ford's Theatre, 511 10th St. NW. The famous site where President Lincoln was shot is believed by many to be haunted. Even if you don't see a ghost, be sure to tour the new Ford's Theatre Museum.
* The Octagon House, 1799 New York Ave. NW. Designed by the architect of the U.S. Capitol, William Thornton, this house has been the site of many tragedies, including the accidental death of a young girl. It was also used for other purposes including the residence of President and Mrs. James Madison and a makeshift hospital. Ghosts are said to reside in the home, which is on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
* Blair House, 1651-1653 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. The official state guesthouse for the president has been the site of ghosts back to the time of President Truman.
* The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. The Web site of this theater notes that actor John Edward McCullough, a popular thespian of the 1800s, reportedly roams the theater at night.
