Hauntings of the Blennerhassett Hotel

One of the ghosts associated with the Blennerhassett is no other than William N. Chancellor himself. He was the person behind the hotels’ erection. Guests and staff have reported that seeing a smoke circle coming from the portrait of Mr. Chancellor. Others have also reported smelling cigar smoke from the portrait. Mr. Chancellor was well known as an avid cigar smoker and always had one in his hand whenever in public.

While the hotel was undergoing extensive renovations, the portrait of Mr. Chancellor was taken down, this apparently was the catalyst for a lot of strange occurrences. One night, as a guest was climbing to bed, he felt something weighing the bed down. He saw the figure of an older gentleman who turned to him and said, “I was here first”! When Mr. Chancellor’s portrait was returned to its rightful place, he was no longer disturbing guests.

Elevators have been reported not to open on the right floor. It would almost always open on the 2nd floor even when nobody pushed that button. Several people who have come to the 2nd floor have claimed to see a gentleman dressed in black walking down the hall.

The hotel’s library was once the First National Bank of Parkersburg.  It is said that a truck once missed a turn and drove straight into the bank doorway, hitting a woman and killing her. Today, books on the library shelves fly off by themselves. The Red Room is a room in which no one wants to enter alone, often giving the feeling of dread and being watched. Doors of the room just open and close by themselves and get stuck. Ghostly children have also been heard playing in the guest rooms on many occasions.

History

The Blennerhassett Hotel is located on the corner of Market and Fourth Streets. It was erected in 1889 by once city mayor, William N. Chancellor. He also built the larger hotel just three blocks from the Blennerhassett, Chancellor Hotel. The hotel was named after Harman Blennerhassett. Primarily, the hotel was used as lodging for traveling salesmen and railroad men.

The hotel rose to prominence during the Gaslight Era. After an extensive restoration, the hotel reopened in 1986. Renovations included lavish moldings, expensive light fixtures, a third-floor atrium sitting area, and a period library. The hotel has now become a national historic landmark and one of Parkersburg’s premier hotels.

About

The elegant Blennerhassett Hotel boasts unique accommodations for people traveling for pleasure and business alike. The well-appointed guestrooms have jewel-toned fabrics and beds with triple sheeting. Guests can also choose from synthetic or down pillows. Spats Restaurant and Lounge, the hotel’s restaurant, uses nothing but the freshest ingredients for its TaBella cuisine, which is inspired by the dishes of Northern Italy. The hotel also has an extensive list of wines to round the dining experience of the guests.

The hotel has rooms that can accommodate ten to 275 people. These rooms can be used for weddings, meetings, and other events. One of the best meeting spaces in the hotel is the Charleston Ballroom & Promenade which is located on the 1st floor. The spacious banquet room has a maximum seating capacity of 175 people.

Features

  • High-speed wireless internet service
  • Plush bathrobes
  • In-room coffee maker
  • Dry cleaning and laundry services
  • Safe deposit boxes
  • Valet service
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Full-size hairdryer
  • Deluxe wooden and lingerie hangers
  • Daily newspaper

Things to Do

The hotel is in close proximity to the Blennerhassett Museum. The four-story building has historical relics ranging from weapons, jewelry, household items, and even prehistoric Indian tools. The Smoot Vaudeville Theater provides guests with live entertainment with music and comedy. Guests will get their share of rock, folk, and jazz music. The Parkersburg Cultural Arts Center has various exhibits and events throughout the year. It also offers art classes.

The Lee Middleton Doll Factory is a must-see for little children and people who are into collecting dolls. Guests can also take a tour of the Sternwheeler Cruises on the Ohio River. There are also other attractions such as shopping districts, golf courses, and various outdoor areas.

Room Tariffs

  • Intermediate double rooms start at $95
  • Intermediate king rooms start at $109
  • Deluxe king rooms start at $135
  • Superior king rooms start at 149
  • Deluxe king rooms start at $159
  • Junior suites start at $169
  • Executive suites start at $229
  • Signature suites start at $240

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