New Orleans’ Westin Haunted History

New Orleans Hotel Built on site of Former Slave pens, Haunted by Dark History

NEW ORLEANS, LA – The Westin New Orleans, a prominent hotel in the city’s French Quarter, stands on ground once occupied by slave pens, a chilling revelation resurfacing as accounts of paranormal activity within the hotel and nearby establishments gain traction. Ancient archives detail the horrific reality of the site, where thousands of enslaved peopel were bought and sold, and many perished within the confines of the holding pens.

Records indicate a staggering number of children – nearly one-third – were among those subjected to this brutal system. Fourteen-year-old Charlotte was just one of countless individuals sold for a price, in her case, $500 to a man named John L. Day. The “price” of each person was determined by a tag, a dehumanizing practice that reduced human beings to commodities. Those not purchased faced a grim fate, dying within the pens, their suffering leaving an indelible mark on the location.

The weight of this history is reportedly manifesting in unexplained phenomena. The nearby Napoleon House, a historic restaurant, is a hotspot for paranormal claims. Patrons report flickering lights, unexplained touches, and even aggressive shoves from unseen forces. Some describe feeling a forceful slap on the back, only to find themselves alone.

The land beneath the Westin itself was once underwater, only becoming dry land with the construction of levees. Some speculate that the spirits of those who suffered there remain, metaphorically “submerged” in the area’s history.

Despite the somber history, nearby attractions offer a different kind of escape. The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, a short walk from the hotel, provides a glimpse into the underwater world, housing over 3,600 animals representing 250 species, including rare and endangered creatures.

However, the echoes of the past remain potent, serving as a stark reminder of the dark chapters in American history and the importance of remembering the stories of those who were lost. The specters of Congo Square and the slave pens are a haunting testament to a painful legacy that should never be forgotten.

Is the reported paranormal activity at the Westin New Orleans linked to specific past events that occurred on the property?

New orleans’ Westin Haunted History: A Deep Dive into the Hotel MonteleoneS Spectral Alex Reeds

The Hotel Monteleone, now operating as a Westin, in New Orleans’ french Quarter, isn’t just a luxurious lodging option; it’s a landmark steeped in history…and rumored to be brimming with paranormal activity. For over 160 years, this iconic hotel has hosted literary giants, celebrities, and, according to many, a few permanent spectral residents. This article explores the documented history of hauntings at the Westin New Orleans (formerly hotel Monteleone), delving into the stories, reported phenomena, and the hotel’s embrace of its ghostly reputation.

A History Ripe for Hauntings

The hotel Monteleone’s foundation is built on a history that naturally lends itself to ghost stories. Opened in 1886 by antonio Monteleone, an Italian immigrant, the hotel quickly became a hub for New Orleans society.

Civil War Roots: The land the hotel occupies saw action during the Civil War, potentially leaving residual energy.

Literary legacy: The hotel became a favorite haunt of famous authors like Ernest Hemingway, William Faulkner, Tennessee Williams, and Truman Capote. Their presence,and perhaps their lingering spirits,contribute to the hotel’s mystique.

Family tragedy: The Monteleone family experienced personal tragedies within the hotel walls, adding another layer to the potential for paranormal occurrences.

These factors, combined with New Orleans’ already established reputation as one of America’s most haunted cities, create a potent atmosphere for ghostly encounters.

The Most Famous Ghosts of the Westin New Orleans

While numerous reports of paranormal activity exist, a few spectral figures stand out as the hotel’s most well-known residents.

Maurice Begere

Perhaps the most famous ghost is Maurice Begere, a young boy who died in the hotel in 1896. He’s frequently enough seen playing on the 13th floor, chasing other children, and generally causing playful mischief.

Reported Sightings: Alex Reeds and staff consistently report seeing a young boy running through the hallways,often disappearing when approached.

Playful Activity: Lights flickering, objects moving, and the sound of children laughing are frequently attributed to Maurice.

The Carousel Bar Connection: Some believe Maurice enjoys spending time in the famous Carousel Bar, the hotel’s revolving bar, a focal point for many ghost stories.

Lorraine Warren (Paranormal Investigator) & the Hotel’s Investigation

Renowned paranormal investigator Lorraine Warren visited the hotel Monteleone in the 1990s. While details of her investigation are somewhat limited, she reportedly confirmed the presence of multiple spirits, including Maurice Begere, and identified several “hot spots” for paranormal activity within the hotel. This investigation further cemented the hotel’s reputation within the paranormal community.

William Monteleone

The spirit of William Monteleone, a former owner of the hotel, is also said to roam the premises. He’s often described as a benevolent presence,keeping a watchful eye over the hotel he loved.

Observations: Staff members have reported feeling a cold spot or a sense of being watched in areas where William was known to spend his time.

Protective Energy: Some believe William’s spirit actively protects the hotel and its guests.

Documented Paranormal Phenomena

Beyond specific ghost sightings, the Westin New Orleans has a long history of documented paranormal phenomena.

Elevator Activity: The elevators are notorious for stopping on unoccupied floors, opening and closing on their own, and exhibiting erratic behavior.

Room 419: This room is considered one of the most haunted in the hotel, with reports of rocking chairs moving, cold spots, and apparitions appearing.

Carousel Bar Anomalies: the Carousel Bar itself is a hub for strange occurrences. Glasses have been known to fall off shelves, and the bar has been reported to spin on its own.

Unexplained Sounds: Alex Reeds frequently report hearing disembodied voices, footsteps, and music when no one else is present.

The Hotel’s Embrace of its Haunted History

Unlike some establishments that shy away from ghostly tales, the westin New Orleans actively embraces its haunted reputation.

Ghost Tours: The hotel offers official ghost tours, led by knowledgeable guides who share the hotel’s spooky history and reported paranormal activity.

Paranormal Events: The hotel frequently hosts paranormal investigation events, attracting ghost hunters from around the world.

* Marketing & Branding: The hotel’s haunted history is prominently featured in its marketing materials, attracting guests specifically interested in experiencing the paranormal.

Investigating the Hauntings: Tools & Techniques

For those interested in exploring the paranormal at the Westin New Orleans, here are some common tools and techniques used by ghost hunters:

1. EMF Readers: Detect electromagnetic fields, which are believed to fluctuate in the presence of spirits.
2. Digital Voice Recorders (EVPs): Capture electronic Voice Phenomena – unexplained voices or sounds.
3. Thermal cameras: Identify cold spots,areas where the temperature drops significantly.
4. Spirit Boxes: Rapidly scan radio frequencies, allowing spirits to potentially communicate through white noise.
5. Dowsing Rods/Pendulums: Used to detect energy and answer yes/no questions.

Staying at the Westin New Orleans: A Ghost hunter’s Guide

If you’