If you’re in search of an eerie and historically rich lodging in Michigan, consider a visit to the Landmark Inn in Marquette. Established in 1930, this refined hotel boasts a storied past, having hosted luminaries like Amelia Earhart, J.D. Salinger, and the Rolling Stones. Beyond its fame, the Landmark Inn is renowned for its paranormal encounters, with tales of guests and staff whose departure was never truly realized.
The Lilac Room and the Lady in Red
Among the inn’s most haunted spaces is the Lilac Room, favored by a mysterious woman donning a red dress. Legend has it that she was the lover of a sailor lost in Lake Superior. In hopeful anticipation, she waited in the Lilac Room, but her love never returned.
Succumbing to heartbreak, her spirit lingered, manifesting in ghostly occurrences. Guests recount sightings, the scent of lilac perfume, echoing footsteps, and sobs, often feeling her ethereal presence in the room. Some even claim to have been touched or whispered to. Hotel staff share similar eerie experiences, finding the room disheveled, curtains drawn, the bed undone, and old songs playing on the radio.
The Library and the Ghost Writer
Another haunted enclave is the Library, once frequented by J.D. Salinger in 1951. Despite its cozy ambiance, some guests sense an unsettling presence, as if under the scrutiny of an unseen critic. Mysterious sounds of typing, pages turning, and murmurs pervade the room. Some speculate that these phenomena stem from Salinger’s ghost, toiling away on unfinished manuscripts. Others suggest the lingering spirit of a deceased writer who passed away from a heart attack in the room.
The Sixth Floor and the Phantom Bellboy
The Landmark Inn’s sixth floor, once servants’ quarters, is the epicenter of paranormal activity. A young bellboy met an untimely demise, falling down the elevator shaft. Reports from guests detail hearing his footsteps, knocks, and voice. Some claim to have seen him in his uniform, engaged in helpful or mischievous antics, playing with lights, doors, and elevators. His playful spirit likes to surprise guests, appearing in rooms, and bathrooms, or calling their names.
The Conclusion: A Haunted Hotel with a Charm
The Landmark Inn, beyond its spectral reputation, exudes charm and history. For the intrepid, it promises a unique experience. An opportunity to delve into Marquette’s rich history and culture awaits, complemented by stunning views of Lake Superior. Whether seeking thrills, romance, or relaxation, the Landmark Inn caters to all tastes. Just brace yourself for the possibility of a spectral roommate.