Built in the 1800s, Dundurn Castle in Hamilton, Ontario has been a source of mystery and dark tales of paranormal activity. Visitors can explore the castle's horror stories and eerie history while enjoying picturesque gardens and a unique experience. Read on to learn about the strange events that have taken place at Dundurn Castle!
Horror Story of Dundurn Castle - Hamilton, Ontario
The citizens of Hamilton, Ontario were living in fear for years. Tales of supernatural events at the local landmark, Dundurn Castle had been circulating throughout the small Canadian city. It all started when the Lord of the castle, Lord McCaw, disappeared in the late 1840's.
Rumors say that the Lord died of mysterious reasons in the castle and his ghost was seen roaming the hallways for years. According to witnesses, his walking stick was often found in the hallways and his disembodied voice was heard yelling in the distance. Some say that his ghost was trying to find the location of the great treasure that was rumored to be hidden somewhere in the castle.
Many believed that no one would ever find the treasure, because the Lord's ghost had put several curses on the castle. It was believed that anyone who attempted to search the castle for the treasure would suffer a terrible fate, such as death or some other mysterious consequences.
The fear of Lord McCaw's ghost and the talk of cursed treasure has kept people away from the castle for many years. However, one brave soul decided to investigate the rumors and try to uncover the truth.
Unfortunately, the brave explorer never returned. Witnesses reported seeing a bright light shooting out of the castle windows and hearing the Lord's voice echoing throughout the halls. No one has seen the explorer since.
No one knows if the explorer ever found the cursed treasure, or if the Lord’s ghost got his vengeance. What is certain is that Dundurn Castle remains a mystery to this day and the local citizens still fear the Lord's ghost.
History & Information of Dundurn Castle - Hamilton, Ontario
Dundurn Castle is a National Historic Site, situated in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Built in 1835, it was the grand home of Sir Allan Napier MacNab, one of 19th century Canada's pre-eminent politicians and businessmen. It is now owned and operated by Hamilton Municipality and is open to the public.
The property was originally purchased in 1832 by George Hamilton, a settler from Scotland. He built a one-storey stone house in 1835 and named the property Dundurn, after the ancestral home of his family in Scotland.
In 1848, the property was purchased by Sir Allan Napier MacNab, who had achieved wealth and success in law, milling, manufacturing, banking, and politics. MacNab significantly expanded the house in the Gothic Revival style. He decorated the grounds with ornate gardens, gates, fences and outbuildings.
When MacNab died in 1862, Dundurn Castle passed to his son, Earnest, who maintained the property for the rest of his life. Earnest left Dundurn Castle and its contents to his nephew, Sir Vincent Massey. The Massey family rented the house out to tenants and throughout the early 20th century, the property fell into disrepair.
In 1946, the City of Hamilton acquired the house, which was in a state of disrepair. The Dundurn Castle Restoration Committee was formed in 1955 and, in 1959, Dundurn Castle opened to the public.
Today, Dundurn Castle is an important and popular tourist site. It is designated as a National Historic Site and its gardens are a member of the North American Plant Collections Consortium. The house contains over 15,000 artifacts, including an excellent collection of 19th century furniture.
The grounds feature reproductions of the MacNab’s original carriage house, stables, dairy and tradesman's cottage. The rectangular box-hedge maze and formal gardens further recreate the atmosphere of a grand 19th century estate. Visitors of all ages can explore the grounds, take in the history, and marvel at the beauty of Dundurn Castle.
Paranomial Activity of Dundurn Castle - Hamilton, Ontario
1. Guided Tours: Dundurn Castle offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds for individuals and groups. Visitors will learn about the history of the castle and the prominent MacNab family who lived there.
2. Cultural Events: Dundurn Castle holds a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including lectures by special guests, music performances, and seasonal festivities.
3. Historic Homes Programs: Dundurn Castle provides opportunities for special programs for school groups and other organizations, which can include guided tour, hands-on activities, and historic simulations.
4. Picnics and Walks: On the grounds of Dundurn Castle, there are several areas for picnics and leisurely walks, where visitors can experience nature in the castle's gardens.
5. Gift Shop: Dundurn Castle has its own gift shop, offering souvenirs, books, and other items for purchase.
6. Heritage Events: Throughout the year, Dundurn Castle hosts special days and events with historical activities, designed to heighten awareness and appreciation of the castle and its heritage.
7. Art Exhibits and Workshops: Dundurn Castle invites local and international artists to participate in art exhibitions and workshops, where visitors can admire the creations and even participate themselves.
Experience of people & Reviews of Dundurn Castle - Hamilton, Ontario
Dundurn Castle in Hamilton, Ontario is a popular tourist attraction that draws in thousands of people each year. The castle, which was built in 1835 by Sir Allan MacNab, was declared a National Historic Site in 1960. Visitors to the site can explore the Gothic Revival style residence, the surrounding grounds, a military museum, and the nearby Casemates historic site of the former City of Hamilton.
People visiting Dundurn Castle all rave about the spectacular architecture, the lush greenery, and the abundance of history that can be experienced while there. Many take trips to the castle to experience a real-life-like version of a classic fairytale setting. There are plenty of green open spaces available for picnicking or for taking a leisure stroll and many visitors go the extra mile to explore the grounds and the exhibits inside.
Reviewers of Dundurn Castle have said that it's an absolutely stunning place to visit and that the history and architecture on display make it well worth the trip for any history buff. Many have expressed surprise at the amount of detail that the castle holds in its artwork, furniture, and collections.
However, Dundurn Castle does not come without its critiques. Visitors often mention that the entry fees to the castle are a bit expensive and that the hours in which the castle is open are quite limited. Additionally, they point out that the gift shop at the site is quite small and its selection of souvenirs does not compare to other larger, more famous sites. Several visitors have also suggested that the castle should provide more engaging and interactive activities so that young and old can enjoy the surrounding grounds.
FAQ'S of Dundurn Castle - Hamilton, Ontario
Q: Where is Dundurn Castle located?
A: Dundurn Castle is located in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Q: Is Dundurn Castle open to the public?
A: Yes, the castle is open to the public and is operated by the City of Hamilton.
Q: What are the dates and times of operation?
A: Dundurn Castle is open 7 days a week in the summer (May 01 to October 31). The castle is open from 11:00am to 5:00pm.
Q: Are there admission fees?
A: Yes, there are admission fees for adults, youth, seniors and children.
Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, guided tours of the castle and its grounds are available.
Q: Is there a gift shop at the castle?
A: Yes, there is a gift shop inside the castle where souvenirs and books can be purchased.
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