501 Ohio Ave. Holton, Kansas 66436
Some historic hotels attempt to hide their haunted status. They wave away the odd and unexplainable and dismiss the paranormal. Other hotels, however, such as the Hotel Josephine in Holton, Kansas, do just the opposite. This late 19th-century haunted hotel is proud of its supernatural reputation, claiming the title of “Most Haunted Hotel in Kansas.”
History
Nestled in the quaint downtown of Holton, Kansas, surrounded by little shops and friendly locals, the Hotel Josephine has been in business since 1889. Built by A.D. Walker, a prominent Holton resident, the establishment was named after Walker’s then four-month-old daughter, Josephine. Josephine spent the rest of her life in Kansas, near and around the hotel, and some say she never left. Guests who stay in the Josephine Walker Room often feel her familiar presence, so many years after her death.
Hauntings
Many reports say that Josephine Walker’s spirit is a friendly one, always ready to welcome guests into her namesake hotel. But, she does expect a level of decorum. Members of staff have noted the sounds of loud, angry footsteps in empty rooms or doors opening and shutting on their own when hotel guests become too rowdy, noisy, or drunk.
Other spirits are said to roam the newly renovated hallways of the Hotel Josephine as well. In the Charles Curtis Room, there have been sightings of a Native American spirit. While down in the basement, curious visitors are often met with a variety of experiences. Clear and distinct male voices have been caught by guests using EVP devices, while others have seen unexplained shadows and apparitions.
After a long night of ghost hunting, make sure to check out the Hotel Josephine’s many other amenities. Their Oaks restaurant is open 7 days a week, offering a farm to table approach, with fresh and seasonal ingredients!