Nestled in the heart of Granville, Ohio, the Buxton Inn is more than just a charming bed and breakfast—it’s a portal to another time. With its quaint Federal-style architecture and timeless ambience, the inn feels like a slice of early 19th-century America. But as any seasoned ghost hunter or history buff will soon discover, the Buxton Inn isn’t just famous for its preserved charm and cozy hospitality—it’s also known as one of the most haunted locations in Ohio. Whether you’re here for a peaceful stay or hoping to encounter something otherworldly, the Buxton Inn promises an unforgettable experience. So pack your EVP recorders and a touch of courage—let’s journey into the past and unveil the secrets hiding behind these historic walls.
The History
Founding of the Buxton Inn
The Buxton Inn was established in 1812, making it one of the oldest continuously operating inns in the state of Ohio. Founded by Orrin Granger, one of the early settlers of Granville, this Federal-style building began as “The Tavern” and quickly became a hub for travelers, postal service riders, and stagecoach passengers trekking across the Ohio frontier. Granger was not only the innkeeper but also Granville’s first postmaster, and the building itself doubled as the town’s original post office. The tavern played a key role in the development of Granville as it served as a social and economic center for the budding community.
Evolution Through the Centuries
Over the decades, the inn changed hands and names, eventually being renamed the Buxton Inn in 1854, after Major Horton Buxton became the new proprietor. Buxton left a significant impression on the establishment, not only lending his name but also shaping its identity as a respectable and welcoming inn. The building was expanded to include additional guest rooms, a dining area, and a courtyard. By the late 1800s, the inn had become a well-regarded stop for weary travelers, and its reputation for excellent hospitality spread far beyond Granville.
A Brush with Ohio’s Elite
The Buxton Inn isn’t just historic in architecture and age—it has hosted a slew of notable guests over the centuries. Several Ohio governors and dignitaries have stayed at the inn, and even President William H. Harrison is rumored to have rested his head within its walls on his way to campaign stops. With each decade, the inn collected stories and spirits alike, becoming not just a place to sleep, but a venue through which time speaks—whispering tales of the past to anyone willing to listen.
Preservation and Legacy
In the 1970s, the Buxton Inn was saved from demolition thanks to dedicated preservationists who recognized its historical and cultural value. The loving restoration carefully preserved original woodwork, fireplaces, and architectural details so that future generations could experience a living piece of Ohio history. Today, the Buxton Inn serves both as a full-service inn and a restaurant, appreciated by onsite diners, overnight guests, and—some say—guests who never checked out.
The Haunt
The Blue Lady
Perhaps the most well-known ghost associated with the Buxton Inn is the “Blue Lady,” believed to be the spirit of Ethel “Bonnie” Bounell. Bonnie was the innkeeper during the 1930s and 1940s and deeply loved her role at the inn. Her dedication never faded, even in death. Many guests and staff have reported seeing a woman in a flowing blue dress wandering the hallways or peering from windows late at night. Cold chills, disembodied footsteps, and the sudden scent of lavender often accompany her presence. Some even claim that Bonnie has spoken directly to sensitive guests, relaying kind words and a desire to care for the inn.
Phantom Cat of Room 9
Room 9 houses another spirit, but this one with a far more peculiar shape—a ghost cat. Many guests have reported the eerie sensation of a feline jumping onto their bed during the night, only to find nothing there when they turn on the lights. Some claim to have seen a small gray cat dart across the floor or felt the unmistakable weight of paws snoozing at the foot of the bed. While there’s no confirmed history explaining the spectral pet, its presence adds a more whimsical touch to the inn’s paranormal roster.
Voices from the Basement
The basement of the inn, once used for storage and likely more clandestine affairs during Prohibition, has a much more chilling vibe. Staff members have reported hearing voices and murmurs when no one else was present, the slamming of doors, and items moving of their own accord. Some visitors say they feel an overwhelming sense of unease when descending the narrow staircase, only to be met with sudden drafts and inexplicable EMF spikes. Paranormal investigators have captured EVP recordings in the basement, documenting everything from disembodied voices to sudden temperature drops.
More Than Just One Ghost
Paranormal experiences at the Buxton Inn are not confined to a single room or area. Guests across the inn have reported hearing footsteps in empty hallways, doors creaking open by unseen hands, and the feeling of being watched. Room 7 is another hotbed of activity, with reports of disembodied laughter and affectionate touches by unseen forces. Others have claimed to experience vivid dreams or even disturbing visions that happen only when sleeping under the inn’s historic roof. Ghost hunting groups have returned year after year, drawn by the consistent encounters and documented phenomena, including EVPs, orbs, and even photographs showing ghostly apparitions.
Historic Energy Residue
Some paranormal theorists believe the intense spiritual activity at the Buxton Inn may be less about individual ghosts and more about what is known as a “residual haunting.” Essentially, the inn has soaked up the emotional and energetic imprints of the thousands who have lived, worked, and stayed here over the centuries. Whether intelligent spirits or residual energy, there is no denying that the air at the Buxton Inn hums with something more than history—it hums with the unseen.
Why You Should Visit the Buxton Inn
If you’re a ghost enthusiast, paranormal investigator, or simply someone drawn to stories that straddle this world and the next, the Buxton Inn should be at the top of your haunted travel list. Few places in Ohio, or even the Midwest, combine authentic early American history with such sustained paranormal activity. The inn offers all the modern comforts you’d expect—cozy rooms, fine dining, and welcoming hospitality—alongside the thrill of possibly encountering the unknown. You can book rooms known for their haunted reputations or dine in the same space once frequented by 19th-century governors, knowing that you’re walking in the footsteps of both the living and the dearly departed.
So grab your EMF detector, charge your camera, and bring your bravest traveler friends. Whether you’re here to experience a slice of history or chase whispers from the beyond, one thing’s certain: the Buxton Inn is waiting for you—with or without a ghostly greeting at the door. Happy haunting!