A Historical Treasure, The Clayton House is Also One of the Most Haunted Places in Arkansas
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Melissa Mahoney
Author
It seems as though historic Southern Gothic homes and ghostly hauntings go hand-in-hand. The Clayton House in Fort Smith is no different. Through a few ownership changes, the Civil War, and murder, it is unsurprising that so much paranormal activity has occurred here.
Several years later, William Henry Harrison Clayton purchased the house and renovated it, doubling it in size and transforming the style into Victorian Gothic Italianate. Mr. Clayton and his wife, along with their seven children, lived in the home from 1882 to 1897.
Mr. Clayton was appointed District Attorney of the United States for the West District of Arkansas by President Ulysses S. Grant in 1874. His twin brother, John K. Clayton, a U.S. Senator, was mysteriously assassinated in 1873. Some believe his ghost is one that haunts the Clayton House.
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Some hear footsteps upstairs when there is no one around. Could it be him?
Staff and visitors have reported hearing footsteps, boots stomping, and doors slamming, along with seeing apparitions. Music and singing have also been heard throughout the house.
This ghost has a peaceful aura about her and stands quite still. Maybe this is Mrs. Clayton, or perhaps a nurse from the time the property was a hospital. No one knows for sure.
Would you be brave enough to come here at night to hunt for ghosts?
On the National Registry of Historic Places, a visit here will teach visitors the significance of the home during the Civil War and beyond.
The architecture and period furnishings at Clayton House will transport you. And, if you’re lucky, maybe you will see an apparition or hear footsteps from beyond the grave!
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514 N 6th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901, USA