Amongst the plethora of attractions offered by Niagara Falls, Ontario, stands a distinctive edifice that is draped with tales of ghosts and spectres – The Prince of Wales Hotel. Seated grandly in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, this prestigious and time-honored landmark boasts over 150 years of history, attracting guests with its classic charm, beautiful surroundings and captivating ghostly tales.
The Origins
The journey of the Prince of Wales Hotel dates back to the early 1860s. Its establishment was initiated by Thomas Dick, a famous baker and candle-maker, with an investment of $14,000. The edifice was then christened as the Long's Hotel, taking the name from the proprietor at the time, Harold Long.
After the war, in the late 1880s, it changed hands to Milo R. Smith, who had great ambition for this venue. Aiming to attract more elite travellers and royal visits, he renamed it after Albert Edward, the then Prince of Wales (and future King Edward VII).
Over the years, the hotel has welcomed an impressive list of royal personalities and prominent guests, from King George V and Queen Elizabeth II to the famous Mark Twain. These visits, coupled with the tales of the supernatural, have solidified the hotel's esteemed status and piqued the curiosity of travellers and history enthusiasts alike.
A Haunting Reputation
Besides its fascinating history, the Prince of Wales Hotel is also known for the numerous chilling accounts of spectral guests who seemingly chose never to check out. While some stories may stem from imaginative patrons, others come with such authenticity and details that they are hard to dismiss.
The Lady in Black, as she's popularly known, is said to be one of the regular apparitions of the hotel. This ghost is reported to be that of a woman, typically spotted in her Victorian-era mourning attire, pacing anxiously through the hallways, possibly still waiting for the return of a long-lost love. Hotel guests have claimed to see her presence reflected in mirrors and her dark silhouette on the windows at night.
Another persistent tale that often emerges is that of a mischievous spirit in Room 207. From moved objects, fluctuating room temperatures, to disturbing guests' sleep with flickering lights and chilling touches – these phenomena are linked to Captain Swayze, a 19th-century soldier who was supposedly stabbed by an enemy before he could return to his lover. His ghost is believed to still haunt this room in an endless search for his betrothed.
Additionally, reports of phantom parties – distant music, voices, and laughter heard echoing from empty ballrooms – have been described by some employees and guests, who even went so far as to report it to hotel management, believing it was real and not paranormal.
Alluring Stories for All
It's not just ghost enthusiasts and thrill-seekers who are drawn to the Prince of Wales Hotel; history buffs and casual tourists alike also enjoy the establishment for its unique ambiance and links to Canada's past. This truly haunted landmark offers more than a place to sleep; it's a glimpse into a historical time warp wrapped up in grand Victorian luxury, amplified by stories of those who once roamed its corridors.
The Prince of Wales Hotel's captivating origin and fascinating spectral tales make it an unparalleled destination. While it promises an enchanting stay filled with historic allure and vintage luxury, it may also offer a few unexpected guests and some ghostly encounters, making a visit to this destination a truly unforgettable experience.
For a luxurious stay imbued with a unique sense of mystery, the Prince of Wales Hotel stands unmatched, truly capturing the captivating spirit of Niagara Falls, Ontario. This time-honoured landmark provides the perfect blend of hospitality, history and just a hint of haunting, making every visit an intriguing adventure.
A visit to the Niagara region wouldn’t be complete without a night spent at the Prince of Wales Hotel, where each room comes with the potential for an unearthly encounter. With ghost stories woven into the fabric of the hotel’s history, an overnight stay here is far from ordinary and is guaranteed to send chills down the spine of even the most intrepid travellers.
So, as the evening fog blankets the vintage silhouette of this historic landmark and the dark corridors echo the spectral tales of the past, are you ready to venture into this journey filled with mysteries and enigmas? If so, prepare to be fascinated by the historic grandeur and intriguing phantom tales at the Prince of Wales Hotel. The spectral guests await you!
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