If walls could talk, the weathered oak beams and creaking floorboards of the White Horse Tavern in Rhode Island would have over three centuries’ worth of secrets to whisper. This colonial gem tucked into the heart of Newport holds the distinction of being the oldest operating tavern in the United States. But beyond its warm hearth, historic charm, and legendary clam chowder, lies something even more compelling—tales of spirits not listed on the drinks menu. Whether you’re a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or just someone who loves atmospheric pubs with great local flavor, the White Horse Tavern deserves a spot on your ghost-hunting map.
The History
A Colonial Landmark Since 1673
The White Horse Tavern traces its beginning all the way back to 1673 when it was opened by William Mayes Sr., a successful merchant and pirate-turned-innkeeper. Originally a two-story residence built in 1652, the building was converted into a tavern and quickly became a central hub for colonial Newport society. It was more than just a place to eat and drink—it was where town business, court sessions, and community meetings were regularly held.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Newport was a thriving colonial port, and the tavern served sailors, merchants, British soldiers, and locals alike. This convergence of various social classes and occupations made it a hotspot for not only politics and trade but also for occasional confrontations. The dark wooden interiors that remain today echo with stories of rowdy nights fueled by rum and revolutionary ideas.
Surviving Centuries and Wars
One of the tavern’s most remarkable attributes is its resilience. The White Horse Tavern has survived occupation during the Revolutionary War, served as a boarding house, and overcame the wear and tear of time. In the 1950s, after falling into disrepair, it was restored by the Preservation Society of Newport County, thanks in large part to the Van Beuren family, who were committed to preserving the site’s historical integrity.
Today, the tavern is lovingly maintained in much of its colonial appearance with wide-planked floors, classic fireplaces, leaded glass windows, and heavy wooden beams. Dining there is like stepping back into the early days of American history—with modern culinary excellence added to the mix.
Historic Designation and Continuing Legacy
In 1972, the White Horse Tavern was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It remains an invaluable piece of living history, not just for Rhode Island but for the entire United States.
Much more than a restaurant, the tavern continues to be a cultural cornerstone. Whether you’re sipping ale in the same room where colonial governors once deliberated or eying the shadows in the corners for something inexplicable, there’s a palpable sense that you’re not alone—and that’s where this story takes an even more intriguing turn.
The Haunt
Ghosts that Never Checked Out
The White Horse Tavern isn’t just haunted by history—it may actually be haunted by people from it.
Multiple staff members and guests have reported eerie occurrences that defy easy explanation. Cold spots, flickering lights, footsteps on empty staircases, and ghostly figures appearing only to vanish a second later are all among the tavern’s haunted resume. These sightings aren’t just the stuff of legend; they’ve been consistently reported over the years, making the White Horse Tavern a subject of fascination for paranormal investigators from around the country.
The Gentleman in Colonial Garb
One of the most frequently spotted apparitions is that of a man dressed in colonial clothing. Often seen on the upper floor or at the bar, the specter is believed to be the ghost of one of the tavern’s early patrons—or perhaps even a former owner. Witnesses describe him as stoic, with an air of sorrow or contemplation. He typically vanishes quickly when approached, giving many guests only a fleeting glimpse.
Some believe this entity could be tied to an era when the tavern also served as a makeshift courtroom and hospital. Back in the 1600s and 1700s, death was common in such public spaces, especially when medical care was limited and justice could be swift—sometimes fatally so.
Childlike Laughter and Flickering Lamps
Other odd phenomena include the sounds of children laughing even when no children are present and chandeliers or lamps swinging without explanation. One guest detailed an experience where the candlelight in their dining area dimmed and brightened in rhythm with an unseen presence moving through the room.
Employees closing up after hours have also reported items being moved and feelings of being watched. Some even refuse to work alone late at night due to unnerving sensations and inexplicable events that seem to ramp up once the tavern empties out.
The Upstairs Room Nobody Wants
A particular room upstairs has a storied reputation among the tavern’s staff. Though used for private functions or storage today, many feel a strong sense of dread while inside. Paranormal investigators who have conducted EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomena) sessions in this area claim to have captured whispered voices pleading, warning, or even greeting them by name. Some mediums suggest the presence of a woman who may have died during childbirth or from illness centuries ago, lingering there seemingly unaware of the passage of time.
Paranormal Investigations and Media Appearances
Given its consistent reports of activity, the White Horse Tavern has been featured in various paranormal documentaries and ghost-hunting television series. Local investigators have documented spikes in EMF (Electromagnetic Field) readings, disembodied voices, and shadowy figures moving across motion detectors.
While no officially sanctioned ghost tours run through the tavern, the staff is generally open to discussing the hauntings—especially with curious diners who come for the food but stay for the phantoms.
Conclusion: A Must-Visit for Ghost Hunters
If you’re looking for a haunted hotspot that delivers a perfect blend of rich heritage, spectral stories, and historic ambiance, the White Horse Tavern is a must-add to your paranormal expedition list. Unlike more commercialized haunted attractions, this Rhode Island icon offers an authentic brush with both the history and mystery of early America.
Imagine sipping on a locally brewed ale, hearing subtle footsteps behind you, or catching a glimpse of an 18th-century figure in the flickering candlelight. Whether it’s your equipment picking up an anomaly or that all-too-familiar chill creeping up your spine, the spirits of the White Horse Tavern may just make themselves known to you.
So pack your EMF meter, grab a table near the fireplace, and let the echoing tales of the past draw you deeper into the lore of one of America’s oldest—and most haunted—watering holes. Who knows? Your next great ghost story might just begin right here, in Newport’s haunted colonial masterpiece.