The Winchester House, constructed in 1884, underwent continuous building around the clock, 24/7, 365 days a year. Its interior constantly evolved to adapt to the changing structure, often featuring occurrences of the number 13 in its design, such as in the placement of items and stained glass. Originally spanning 500-600 rooms and reaching seven stories tall, it was reduced to four stories after sustaining damage from the 1906 earthquake. Sarah Winchester, its sole architect, transformed it into the remarkable masterpiece it is today, using it as a sanctuary.
Sarah Winchester, a Yale graduate proficient in multiple languages, exhibited intelligence and business acumen. With connections to Freemasonry and Rosicrucian, she married William Wirt Winchester, son of the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. founder. Their only child, Annie P. Winchester, tragically passed away in 1886, followed by Sarah in 1922.
William Wirt Winchester, Treasurer of the Winchester Repeating Arms Co., died in 1881, just months after his father’s passing. Allegedly, both were unable to witness the production of the 1886 rifle. Reports of paranormal activity, including ghost sightings and moving objects, surround the Winchester House. Some believe Sarah employed mediums to trap entities, purportedly souls seeking revenge for deaths caused by the Winchester rifle. People claimed to have seen actual ghosts, objects moving, and sounds throughout the house. According to history records and of course speculation, it was said that Sarah herself used methods to trap “entities,” with help from a medium. Historical documents reveal that Sarah and others have said that these ghosts or lost souls, were the victims that died at the end of the Winchester rifle.
A tour of the house, lasting several hours, grants access to select areas, others, not so much due to closures and restrictions. The house’s mysterious allure, coupled with its intricate beauty, captivates visitors. Intriguing features include elaborate hand-carved woodwork, stunning stained glass, and peculiar staircases leading nowhere. Despite its enigmatic layout, exploring the Winchester House offers a glimpse into history and architectural marvel.
If you take a close look at the images below, particularly the third photo, there seems to be something looking in our direction, peculiar because this figure seems as if it’s upside down. The first photo shows a faint figure at the top of the stairs in the glass.
