MONADNOCK REGION N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The Monadnock Region of New Hampshire is rich with history and folklore, which makes it a hotspot for ghost stories and paranormal activity. Here are some of the most notable reportedly haunted locations in the area:

1. Madame Sherri Forest (Chesterfield)

Story: Madame Antoinette Sherri, a former costume designer from New York City, built a lavish mansion in the woods of Chesterfield in the 1920s. She was known for hosting extravagant parties, but after her death, the mansion fell into ruins, leaving only the stone staircase behind. Many visitors to the forest and ruins claim to hear strange noises, see ghostly figures, and experience a chilling atmosphere. Some say Madame Sherri herself haunts the area, especially near the famous stone staircase that was once part of her mansion.

2. Wyman Tavern (Keene)

Story: Built in 1762, this historic tavern was once a gathering place for soldiers during the Revolutionary War. It is now a museum, but people claim that the spirits of former residents and soldiers still roam its halls. Footsteps are often heard when no one is there, and objects sometimes move on their own. The tavern’s haunted reputation has attracted many paranormal investigators over the years.

3. The Colonial Theatre (Keene)

Story: This historic theater, which opened in 1924, has a history of paranormal sightings. Employees and visitors have reported seeing shadowy figures in the theater seats or hearing strange sounds when no one else is around. The basement is particularly spooky, with reports of flickering lights and cold spots. Some say it’s the ghost of a former performer or patron who never left.

4. Monadnock Boulders (Jaffrey)

Story: Mount Monadnock itself has a mystical reputation, but certain parts of the mountain are said to be haunted. In the early 1800s, a man named “Pliny Merrill” was said to have vanished while hiking the mountain. His body was never found, and legend says his restless spirit still roams the trails. Hikers have reported eerie sensations, strange noises, and the feeling of being watched.

5. Jaffrey Meetinghouse and Cemetery (Jaffrey)

Story: This historic site dates back to the 1770s, and the cemetery next to the meetinghouse is the final resting place of many early settlers. One ghost story that stands out is that of Abel Parker, a Revolutionary War veteran. According to legend, his ghost has been seen wandering the grounds, particularly around his grave. Visitors also report strange lights and cold spots near the cemetery.

6. The Kilburn House (Keene)

Story: This grand house was built by the Kilburn family in the 19th century. It is said that after several family members passed away in the house, their spirits never truly left. There are stories of lights turning on and off by themselves, furniture moving, and even full apparitions of past family members appearing to visitors.

7. Dublin Lake (Dublin)

Story: Dublin Lake is a serene spot, but it has a darker history. According to local legend, a Native American woman drowned in the lake long ago, and her spirit still haunts its waters. Fishermen and boaters have reported seeing a woman walking on the lake’s shore, only for her to vanish without a trace.

8. The Little Red Schoolhouse (Rindge)

Story: This old schoolhouse has stood for over a century, and while it is no longer in use, it’s said to be haunted by the spirits of children who once attended. Visitors report hearing children’s laughter or footsteps inside when the building is empty. Some believe the ghosts are playful, but others say the schoolhouse has an eerie, unsettling vibe at night.
These locations contribute to the folklore and ghost stories of the Monadnock Region, making it an intriguing destination for those interested in the paranormal.

9. Keene State College (Keene)

Many students and staff have reported paranormal activity, especially in the college’s dormitories. Huntress Hall is a well-known haunted spot where reports of strange noises and apparitions have been frequent.

10. Amos J. Blake Museum/House (Fitzwilliam)

The Fitzwilliam Historical Society’s museum, formerly a house/store built in 1837, has had many reports: voices, footsteps, moving objects, feeling of being watched, etc. It has been investigated by paranormal groups and was featured on “Ghost Hunters.”