Jumel Mansion: A Historic Landmark with a Haunting Past

The Jumel Mansion, located in Manhattan, New York City, is one of the oldest surviving houses in the United States. It was built in 1765 by Roger Morris, a British officer who served in the Revolutionary War. The mansion has a rich and storied history, and it has been associated with some of the most famous figures in American history, including George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and Aaron Burr.

The Early Years

Roger Morris built the mansion as a summer home for his family. The house was originally a two-story frame building, but it was later expanded to three stories. The mansion is located on a 12-acre estate that includes a garden, orchard, and a pond.

During the Revolutionary War, the mansion was occupied by British troops. George Washington and his troops used the mansion as a headquarters for a time. After the war, the mansion was returned to Morris, but he was forced to sell it in 1784 due to financial difficulties.

The Jumel Family

In 1810, the mansion was purchased by Stephen Jumel, a wealthy French merchant. Jumel and his wife, Eliza, entertained lavishly at the mansion. They hosted many famous guests, including the Marquis de Lafayette and President James Monroe.

Eliza Jumel was a strong-willed and eccentric woman. She was known for her extravagant spending and her many love affairs. After Stephen Jumel's death in 1832, Eliza married Aaron Burr, the former Vice President of the United States. Burr lived at the mansion until his death in 1836.

The Haunting of Jumel Mansion

Jumel Mansion has a long history of being haunted. Many people have reported seeing ghosts of former residents, including Eliza Jumel and Aaron Burr. The mansion has been featured on several television shows and documentaries about haunted houses.

One of the most famous ghost stories associated with Jumel Mansion is the story of the "Lady in White." This ghost is said to be the spirit of Eliza Jumel. She is often seen wandering the halls of the mansion, dressed in a white gown.

The Mansion Today

Jumel Mansion is now a museum. It is open to the public for tours. The museum features exhibits on the history of the mansion and its former residents.

Jumel Mansion is a fascinating and historic landmark. It is a must-see for anyone interested in American history or the paranormal.

Tips for Visiting Jumel Mansion

• Book your tour in advance. Tours of Jumel Mansion are popular, so it is important to book your tour in advance, especially if you are visiting during peak season.
• Arrive early for your tour. This will give you time to explore the grounds of the mansion and take some photos.
• Wear comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking on your tour.
• Be respectful of the museum. Jumel Mansion is a historic landmark, so it is important to be respectful of the property and its staff.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don't try to sneak into the mansion. The mansion is closed to the public except for guided tours. If you are caught trying to sneak in, you will be asked to leave.
• Don't touch anything. The mansion is a museum, so it is important to not touch any of the exhibits.
• Don't be disruptive. The mansion is a quiet place, so please be respectful of other visitors.

FAQs

• Is Jumel Mansion really haunted?

  There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that Jumel Mansion is haunted. However, many people have reported seeing ghosts of former residents, including Eliza Jumel and Aaron Burr.

• Can I take pictures inside Jumel Mansion?

  Photography is not allowed inside Jumel Mansion.

• How much does it cost to tour Jumel Mansion?

  The cost of a tour of Jumel Mansion is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $8 for children ages 6-12.

  

• Is Jumel Mansion wheelchair accessible?

  Yes, Jumel Mansion is wheelchair accessible.

• Can I bring my dog to Jumel Mansion?

  No, dogs are not allowed on the grounds of Jumel Mansion.

• Is there parking at Jumel Mansion?

  Yes, there is limited parking available at Jumel Mansion.

Stories and What We Learn

Story 1: Eliza Jumel was a strong-willed and eccentric woman. She was known for her extravagant spending and her many love affairs. After Stephen Jumel's death in 1832, Eliza married Aaron Burr, the former Vice President of the United States. Burr lived at the mansion until his death in 1836.

What we learn: Don't be afraid to be yourself. Eliza Jumel was not afraid to live her life on her own terms. She was a strong-willed and independent woman who did not conform to the expectations of society.

Story 2: Jumel Mansion has a long history of being haunted. Many people have reported seeing ghosts of former residents, including Eliza Jumel and Aaron Burr.

What we learn: The past is never truly gone. The ghosts of our ancestors can still haunt us today. It is important to learn from the past and to not repeat the mistakes of our ancestors.

Story 3: Jumel Mansion is a beautiful and historic landmark. It is a must-see for anyone interested in American history or the paranormal.

What we learn: History is all around us. We can learn a lot about our past by visiting historic landmarks. Jumel Mansion is a great place to learn about the early days of the United States and the people who shaped our nation.

Tables

Table 1: Jumel Mansion Facts

Table 2: Jumel Mansion History

Table 3: Jumel Mansion Ghost Stories