In the heart of Portland, Maine, tucked along the quaint and historic Congress Street, stands a house that is as enthralling as it is enduring. The Wadsworth-Longfellow House is more than just an architectural gem—it’s a portal to another time and, some say, another realm. For lovers of American history, literary heritage, and paranormal intrigue, this house offers a rare combination of cultural significance and supernatural mystery. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or simply drawn to stories of the past, a visit to The Wadsworth-Longfellow House promises revelations—both earthly and otherworldly.
The History
A Family Legacy Begins
The Wadsworth-Longfellow House was built between 1785 and 1786 by General Peleg Wadsworth, a Revolutionary War hero and grandfather to one of America’s most beloved poets, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Standing as the oldest remaining structure on Portland’s peninsula, the house served as the Wadsworth family home for generations. The house’s location on Congress Street was once a grand residential avenue, giving you a sense of how the elite once lived in the city. The residence remained in the family until 1901, when Anne Longfellow Pierce, Henry’s sister, passed away and bequeathed the home to the Maine Historical Society.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s Childhood Home
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, born in 1807, spent his formative years in this very house. Many believe that the experiences and surroundings of his youth directly influenced the poetic imagery that would later define his literary career. Walking through the home’s meticulously restored rooms—still filled with original furnishings and family artifacts—you can almost hear the echoes of Henry reciting lines of “Evangeline” or “The Song of Hiawatha.” Literary pilgrims come for this reason, to breathe the same air, touch the same walls, and be immersed in the world that formed the poet’s sensibilities.
Architectural Significance
The structure is a classic example of Federal-style architecture, with symmetrical design, double parlors, and an elegant central stairway. Later additions and renovations reflect the shifting tastes and styles of the 19th century, making the house not just a museum of one era, but a layered narrative of changing times. Despite these updates, much of the house remains in its original condition, creating an authentic atmosphere that adds to its mystique for history buffs and ghost hunters alike.
Transformation into a Museum
After Anne Longfellow Pierce’s death, the house was turned over to the Maine Historical Society, which opened it to the public as a historic house museum in 1901. Today, the house forms a central part of the Historical Society’s mission and offers a wide range of educational programs, guided tours, and special events. As the first wholly preserved historic home open to the public in Maine, it set a precedent for heritage conservation in the region. But beyond that, it’s become a locus for those chasing not just the past, but the uncanny.
The Haunt
Strange Sounds in the Silent Rooms
While the Wadsworth-Longfellow House is best known as a literary shrine, tales from staff members, visitors, and even local psychics tell of an underlying presence that adds an eerie dimension to the home. Disembodied footsteps, abrupt drops in temperature, and hushed whispers have been regularly reported, especially on the upper floors and in Henry’s childhood room. Despite ongoing maintenance and modern security, unexplained sounds—such as the rustling of papers or the creak of floorboards when no one is present—persist long after the tour groups depart.
The Figure in the Window
Several passersby have claimed to see a figure gazing down at them from the second-story window late at night. Described as a woman in 19th-century garb, some believe this is the lingering spirit of Anne Longfellow Pierce, whose deep love for her family home may still tether her to the residence. Others think it could be a manifestation of literary energy—after all, when a house has been a witness to generations of creativity, perhaps that energy leaves a trace.
The Smell of Ink and Old Books
Unexplainable olfactory phenomena are not uncommon at the house. Visitors and staff have occasionally reported sudden bursts of scent: the mustiness of old books, or the sharp tang of ink. These experiences often occur in Henry’s study, a small room filled with writing desks and books that once belonged to the poet. Could it be the spirit of Longfellow himself, continuing his lifelong engagement with the written word from beyond the veil?
Paranormal Investigations
The house hasn’t seen the spotlight on major paranormal shows—yet—but local paranormal groups have conducted EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomena) sessions with curious results. Faint whisperings and one chilling message—“Still here…”—have been captured on digital recorders. Staff have kept their own logs of strange occurrences, quietly acknowledging that while nothing malevolent inhabits the house, something undoubtedly lingers. For thrill-seeking tourists, it’s another compelling reason to step inside with all senses sharpened—and maybe a voice recorder in hand.
Plan Your Visit
Located at 489 Congress Street in Portland, Maine, The Wadsworth-Longfellow House is open seasonally from May through October. Admission includes a guided tour, during which guests can explore the intimate rooms where America’s first professional poet spent his youth. The house also provides entry to lush Colonial Revival gardens that are surprisingly tranquil—despite the occasional shiver they may inspire.
While daytime tours offer a historical overview, keep your eye out for special after-hours events and haunted history tours during the Halloween season. These experiences offer a darker look at the house’s ghostly lore, combining storytelling with subtle shadow hunting.
Conclusion: For Ghost Hunters and History Lovers Alike
Whether you’re a paranormal investigator armed with spirit boxes and EMF detectors, or a literary enthusiast journeying through New England’s cultural landmarks, The Wadsworth-Longfellow House offers something truly unique. It’s a rare intersection of celebrated American history and the unexplained. Walking through its narrow halls and period-decorated rooms, you’ll not only trace the footsteps of one of America’s literary giants—you may also feel the subtle brush of a presence that hasn’t entirely moved on.
The next time you’re in Portland, don’t just pass by. Step inside, linger a while, and see if history whispers back. The Wadsworth-Longfellow House beckons, full of echoes—both poetic and paranormal—waiting to be heard. Dare to listen.