The Anchorage is located just outside of Marietta. It was built in 1859 by a local businessman, Douglas Putnam, for his second wife, Eliza. This beautiful Tuscan inspired mansion was modeled after a similar home in New Jersey that Eliza fell in love with after visiting friends there. The 22 room home cost approximately $60,000, and boasts a tower with a widow's walk.
The home was known as the Putnam House, and was a hub of social activity in the region. Unfortunately, Eliza didn't get to enjoy her beloved home for very long--she died in 1862 of heart disease. Allegedly, David Putnam, brother to Douglas, at one time either lived in the home, or was a constant figure there. David was a staunch abolitionist, and rumors abound that the home contains secret tunnels that were used in the Underground Railroad. No tunnels have thus been found, and the family vehemently denies their existence.
In 1896, the house left the Putnam family, and was purchased by the Knox family. The Knox's were involved in boat manufacture and transportation, and thus the home was named "The Anchorage."
In 1960, the home was converted into a nursing home, and remained open until 1986. Today it is located on the old Arbors Nursing home property, and is owned by the Washington County Historical Society.
The first reports of this home being haunted began to surface during its time as a nursing home. Patients, visitors and staff all have reported a young African American boy, around the age of nine, roaming through the building. His presence may have helped spur the legends of an Underground Railroad.
However, the most prominent spirit is definitely that of Eliza Putnam, who continues to frequent the home she so adored. She has been seen on the stairs wearing a long dress and looking melancholy. She is also often reported looking out the front bedroom window. She seems to be seen most on the anniversary of her death, which was on September 9th.
I had the opportunity to attend a ghost hunt at the home a few years back, but unfortunately, there were so many people, we really couldn't obtain any good evidence. However, there have been several groups that have gotten pretty decent EVPs from the home, and some unexplainable photographs.
Information and photos from the Washington County Historical Society
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