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Nestled in the scenic hills of Southwestern Virginia, The Martha Hotel—formally known as The Martha Washington Inn & Spa—is more than just a luxurious blend of Southern hospitality and grand architecture. This historic hotel has lured travelers, scholars, and ghost hunters alike with its elegant 19th-century charm and whispered tales from the other side. Located in the heart of Abingdon, Virginia, The Martha Hotel is a captivating stay for anyone interested in American history, Southern elegance, and a touch of the supernatural. Whether you’re a paranormal investigator or a curious traveler seeking stories beyond the veil, The Martha Hotel promises a memorable (and possibly haunted) experience.
The History
From Mansion to Academy
The story of The Martha Hotel begins in 1832, when it was built as a private residence for General Francis Preston and his family. Designed in the Greek Revival style, the building was a display of wealth and societal stature. However, the building would not remain a private home for long. Following the Preston family’s tenure, the house transitioned into an esteemed educational institution for young women: the Martha Washington College for Girls, named in honor of first lady Martha Washington. For over 70 years, this institution educated women in the classics, arts, and proper Southern etiquette, shaping generations of Virginia’s elite.
Civil War & Hospital Transformation
During the American Civil War, the college temporarily closed its doors and the building was transformed into a makeshift hospital, caring for both Confederate and Union soldiers, depending on the tides of battle. It was a time of blood, heartbreak, and relentless struggle. Stories from this era linger in the building’s very walls—visitors say the energy from this difficult era still echoes through its halls. Some believe the cries of the wounded and the whispers of wartime lovers still reverberate in the long, aged corridors. Among the most frequently mentioned spirits are nurses and soldiers who never left.
Rebirth as a Hotel
In the 1930s, the Martha Washington College closed due to financial woes during the Great Depression, and the building was reimagined yet again. In 1935, it was reborn as The Martha Hotel. Over the years, the inn has hosted dignitaries, celebrities, and tourists—each drawn not only by its luxury accommodations but also by the magnetic charm of its history. While the spa, fine dining, and Victorian rooms draw weary travelers, many come specifically for something else: its long-told ghost stories and lingering spirits from centuries past.
Modern Elegance Meets Living History
Today, The Martha Hotel is part of the historic district in Abingdon and is a beloved destination for travelers looking for a luxurious retreat. Still, the original architecture has been carefully preserved, maintaining a deep sense of time and place. Walking through its halls feels like stepping back into a different century—a place where the veil between past and present seems awfully thin.
The Haunt
The Martha Hotel is widely regarded as one of the most haunted places in Virginia. It is included in many ghost tours around the state, and for good reason. Here’s just a taste of the paranormal activity that has earned this hotel its ghostly reputation:
The Spirit of Room 403
Arguably the most famous haunting within The Martha Hotel takes place in Room 403. Countless guests have reported unusual activity emanating from this room. Some claim to hear soft weeping in the middle of the night, while others have noticed the lights flickering or the television turning on by itself. One particularly chilling account comes from a guest who saw the reflection of a nurse standing behind her in the bathroom mirror—only to turn around and find no one there. Legend has it that this spirit belonged to a young nurse who tragically passed away in the building during the Civil War while caring for wounded soldiers.
The Phantom Violinist
Several evenings a year, visitors and staff alike claim to hear the faint strains of a violin drifting down one of the long hallways. There are no performances scheduled, and no musicians in sight. Some believe this is the spirit of a young woman who once attended the Martha Washington College and was known for playing the violin late into the night. She may still be practicing her mournful melodies in the afterlife.
Haunted Hallways
Staff members have long spoken about strange occurrences during the night shift. Footsteps echoing in empty corridors, sudden cold drafts in closed rooms, and the unmistakable feeling of being watched have become part of The Martha’s daily lore. Some even report doors opening and closing on their own. The hallways of The Martha are filled not only with fine furnishings, but also with energy—some of it not altogether earthly.
Basement Echoes
The basement of The Martha Hotel is particularly notorious among paranormal investigators. Originally used for storage and medical supply provisioning during the Civil War, this subterranean level has yielded EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomena) recordings, unexplained temperature drops, and reports of unseen hands touching guests or staff. Those bold enough to explore alone often leave with more questions than answers—and sometimes, souvenir EMF spikes.
Plan Your Paranormal Pilgrimage
Whether you’re an experienced ghost hunter or a first-time paranormal enthusiast, a stay at The Martha Hotel offers more than spa treatments and cozy fireplaces—it offers a rare chance to sleep among spirits of the past. With layers of rich Southern history and unexplained phenomena, this Virginia gem is a beacon for those who seek stories that go bump in the night.
Don’t forget to bring your paranormal equipment—EMF detectors, voice recorders, and a healthy dose of courage. And if you’re booked into Room 403, consider leaving a note for the nurse who might stop by. She seems to favor polite company.
From antebellum elegance to restless spirits, The Martha Hotel is a unique travel destination that truly has it all. As they say in these parts, the spirits here are most definitely seasoned hosts.
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