Historic 1763 mansion with apparitions and Underground Railroad history
538 Greenwoods Road West, Norfolk, CT 06058
Age
All Ages
Cost
$$
Room rates from $189 per night. Complimentary breakfast included.
Access
Wheelchair OK
Paved, Level
Equipment
Photos OK
Est. 1763 · Colonial Architecture · Underground Railroad Station · National Register Historic Places · Georgian Revival Renovation · Historic Farm Property
The structure now known as Blackberry River Inn was built in 1763, during Connecticut's colonial period. The property carries the historic designation of Moseley House-Farm, named after the family that operated it as an agricultural enterprise for nearly 200 years. Following the death of the farm owner Mr. Moseley in 1939, the property's character shifted when Dorothea and James Schwarzhaupt purchased it and began its transformation into a hospitality venue.
During the 1920s, architect Alfredo Taylor undertook extensive renovations of the property, implementing Georgian Revival architectural elements. Taylor was a renowned designer of the period, responsible for numerous significant building alterations throughout the Connecticut area. His work on the Moseley House represents exemplary Georgian Revival design from that era.
The property's most significant historical distinction stems from its probable role as a stop on the Underground Railroad. The basement contains an extensive network of tunnels, consistent with properties used to conceal and transport enslaved people seeking freedom in northern states and Canada. This Underground Railroad connection adds historical depth to the property's significance.
The property was modernized after its conversion to inn use. In 1971, the ownership transferred to a local corporation that further developed the property, adding amenities including a swimming pool. The building was formally recognized for its architectural and historical significance when it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. Today, Blackberry River Inn operates as a bed and breakfast featuring 14 guest rooms and suites, many appointed with working wood-burning fireplaces.
Sources
The Blackberry River Inn hosts a well-documented paranormal reputation centered on multiple apparitions, particularly on the second floor of the main building. The most frequently reported entity is known as 'the White Lady,' a spectral figure dressed in period clothing who is observed walking through the corridors of the upper floor. Witnesses consistently describe her as a luminous, ethereal form that appears to be oblivious to the living inhabitants of the inn.
The White Lady is frequently reported moving from the main inn building toward the back house located on the property grounds. Multiple guests have documented sightings of her traversing hallways and passing through rooms without acknowledgment of living observers. The apparition does not exhibit any sign of awareness or malevolence—witnesses describe her movements as purposeful yet detached.
A secondary apparition known as Francis is reported to haunt the upper floor of the inn. Some accounts suggest Francis entered through the back entrance and maintains a protective presence throughout the property. Unlike more unsettling paranormal phenomena, guests report experiencing a strong sense of calm and security when Francis appears. Both spirits appear to be benevolent presences—no cases of aggressive or harmful paranormal encounters are documented.
The protective nature of these apparitions has led some researchers to suggest they may be former inhabitants or historical figures connected to the property's long history. The inn's role as a stop on the Underground Railroad may provide historical context for some of these spirits, though their specific identities remain unknown.
Notable Entities
Spend the night in this 1763 colonial mansion where guests report encountering the apparition of 'the White Lady' on the second floor. The inn features 14 guest rooms and suites, many with working fireplaces. Complimentary breakfast is served daily from 8am-10am.
Visit the historic mansion during the day to explore the grounds and common areas. Guests can explore the property's colonial architecture and learn about its history as a stop on the Underground Railroad. The basement network of tunnels is part of the property's historical intrigue.
Every HauntBound history is researched from documented sources. We clearly separate verified historical fact from paranormal folklore.
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