Nestled in the heart of historic New Castle, Delaware, the Amstel House is a striking Georgian-style mansion that has captured the imagination of historians, architecture lovers, and yes—even ghost hunters—for centuries. With its stately brick facade and centuries-old foundations, this museum home gives visitors more than just a glimpse into colonial life. It offers a brush with something deeper, something a little mysterious… something possibly otherworldly. Whether you’re a student of early American history, a seasoned paranormal investigator, or just a curious traveler with a love of all things spooky, the Amstel House might just be your perfect next destination.
The History
Colonial Beginnings and Dutch Influence
The Amstel House was built around 1730 by Dr. John Finney, a well-known physician and one of the early New Castle elites. Designed in the Georgian style, which reflected the affluence and tastes of the time, the house is particularly remarkable for its original woodwork and ornate staircase, both of which remain intact today.
The name “Amstel” pays homage to the Dutch roots of New Castle, once known as “New Amstel” under Dutch colonial rule. Although the house was built after Dutch control had ceded to the British, the name and the area’s layout speak volumes about the town’s strong Dutch influence. New Castle itself was a bustling port town, a hub of commerce and culture, and the Amstel House stood at the center of it all—as a silent witness to America’s dramatic transformation from colony to country.
A Witness to Revolutionary War Tensions
During the Revolutionary War, New Castle became a strategic and hotly contested port. The Amstel House, elegantly perched at 2 East 4th Street, would have seen its share of political tensions and revolutionary activities. Local militia leaders and influential citizens often gathered in homes like this one to discuss politics and the future of the fledgling nation. Rumors persist that even George Washington once walked its halls, although there is no concrete evidence to verify this tantalizing piece of lore.
The home was later occupied by members of the Van Dyke family—a politically active dynasty in Delaware history. Several generations of Van Dykes lived in the home, and it was eventually acquired by the New Castle Historical Society in the 20th century to preserve it as a museum and educational site.
An Architectural Time Capsule
Much of the Amstel House has been lovingly restored and maintained, offering guests a rare look at pre-Revolutionary War architecture in nearly original condition. Its Flemish bond brickwork, gabled roof, and original wood-paneled walls are rich in period craftsmanship. Key interior features—such as the magnificent central staircase and working fireplaces—have been preserved in remarkable condition, giving today’s visitors a strong sense of stepping back in time.
Beyond the aesthetics, the museum curates a rotating array of exhibits about 18th-century life, local artifacts, and occasional themed events related to colonial and paranormal history alike.
The Haunt
Whispers Through the Woodwork
While the Amstel House dazzles with its historical authenticity during daylight hours, it’s after sunset that things get a bit more… compelling. Multiple visitors and staff members have reported unusual experiences inside the home—experiences they struggle to explain away as mere creaky floorboards or the wind. Paranormal enthusiasts have long considered the Amstel House a hidden gem for ghost hunting in Delaware.
Several guests on candlelit ghost tours hosted by the New Castle Historical Society have reported sudden temperature drops in specific rooms, particularly in the front parlor and the master bedroom. Others speak of unexplained footsteps echoing from the staircase or hear what sounds like hushed conversations when no one else is in the house.
The Ghostly Lady in the Parlor
One of the most commonly reported apparitions is that of a lady in colonial-era dress seen gliding through the front parlor. Local lore suggests she may have been a member of the original Finney family, still watching over her home. Witnesses describe her as serene but distant—disappearing as suddenly as she appears. Despite camera setups and EVP sessions, there’s been no definitive evidence captured, only fleeting shadows caught on film and intermittent cold spots during investigations.
The Spirit of a Child?
There have also been reports of a small child’s giggle heard in the upstairs bedrooms. Whether this is a spirit or residual energy from the many families who lived there is unknown. One psychic reported feeling a strong maternal presence in the hallway, “as though she were watching to make sure the child was safe.” Skeptics dismiss these findings, but believers continue to keep their recorders and EMF detectors ready during every visit.
Tools and Tech: When Ghost Hunters Visit
Over the years, several paranormal investigation teams have visited the Amstel House, bringing along digital voice recorders, infrared cameras, EMF meters, spirit boxes, and thermal imaging technology. While results vary, many report anomalous EMF readings and intelligent responses on spirit boxes when questions are asked about the home’s former occupants. One team even claimed to have captured a faint EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomenon) whispering what sounded like the words “He knows not the truth.” Spooky? Most definitely. Debunkable? Not entirely.
Conclusion: A Must-Visit for Ghost Hunters and History Buffs Alike
Whether you’re drawn to the Amstel House for its stunning colonial architecture or the whispers of its lingering spirits, there’s no denying that this historic home has charm—and chills—in abundance. Walking through its rooms is like stepping through a portal to the 18th century, with the added thrill of encountering the unknown.
If you’re a paranormal investigator searching for your next case study, or a passionate ghost hunter ticking off haunted heritage sites across the States, the Amstel House is a must-visit. Its potent combination of historical significance and compelling hauntings makes it a truly rare find. Bring your gear, keep your eyes and ears open, and prepare for a journey through Delaware’s spectral past.
And remember: In New Castle, the shadows of history never sleep.