McPike Mansion


The McPike Mansion Mist


Built in 1869, architect Lucas Pfeiffenberger crafted a home with sixteen rooms, a vaulted wine cellar, eleven marble fireplaces and beautifully carved banisters in Alton, Illinois. McPike Mansion was home to Henry Guest McPike and his family. A famed horticulturist, he perfect the McPike Grape and became well known across the country.

It is believed the McPike family lived in the mansion up until 1936. Although there may be some discrepancies with the dates. Records state Paul a. Laichinger owned and lived in the house between 1908-1930. Either way, it has been unoccupied since 1950s. The current owners Sharyn and George Luedke bought it at an auction in 1994. They are in the process of restoring it to its former beauty.

There have been many stories told about McPike Mansion. Though some believe a whole army of spirits haunt the place only two have supposedly been identified. One is a female servant of the McPikes which Sharyn has dubbed "Sarah". "Sarah" has been described as the friendly sort, touches and sometimes hugs guests at the mansion. The other spirit is believed to be that of Paul Laichinger. Sharyn has claim to have seen him wearing a striped shirt and tie. She possesses a photograph of Laichinger wearing the same thing.

Above is a clip about McPike Mansion from Worlds Scariest Ghosts Caught on Tape. Visit their website to take a virtual tour of the mansion and more: http://mcpikemansion.com/index.html

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