The Stanley Hotel: Haunted by Spirits or a Bad Reputation?

In the early 1900s, tuberculosis (TB) was a misunderstood and often fatal disease. Seeking a cure, inventor Freelan Oscar Stanley moved to the Rocky Mountains with his wife, Flora, where they discovered the healing power of fresh air and sunlight. This journey not only transformed Stanley's health but also led to the creation of the renowned Stanley Hotel. Decades later, the hotel would play a significant role in inspiring Stephen King's iconic novel, The Shining. Join us as we explore the fascinating history of the Stanley Hotel, from its humble beginnings as a tuberculosis sanctuary to its legendary status as Stephen King's muse.

In 1903, Freelan Oscar Stanley, renowned for inventing the steam-powered car, fell victim to tuberculosis. Seeking a cure, he and his wife relocated to the healthy and pure environment of Estes Park, Colorado, where they settled for the summer. Surprisingly, Stanley experienced a remarkable improvement in his health during their stay. By 1907, having fully recuperated, he grew dissatisfied with the mundane lifestyle of Estes Park and decided to transform it into a vibrant resort town.

With his newfound purpose and considerable wealth, Stanley initiated the construction of the Hotel Stanley in 1907. Two years later, on July 4, 1909, the hotel opened its doors to the public as a luxury retreat. Initially equipped with 48 rooms, the hotel aimed to cater to the semi-rich in Stanley's social circle and individuals seeking the rejuvenating climate of the region. Over time, the hotel expanded to an impressive 420 rooms and added ballrooms, dining areas, and even an underground cave system.

The establishment of the Stanley Hotel had a significant impact on the surrounding area. It attracted attention and played a pivotal role in the creation of Rocky Mountain National Park. Additionally, the hotel gained fame as the inspiration behind Stephen King's best-selling novel, The Shining. Interestingly, the hotel served as a filming location for the 1997 TV miniseries adaptation but not for the renowned movie. However, it did feature in the movie Dumb and Dumber, leaving a lasting impression on actor Jim Carrey.

During the hotel's fascinating history, a new chapter was written when Stephen King and his wife, Tabitha, visited in 1974. At the time, King was seeking inspiration for his book, which was initially set in an amusement park. Local suggestions led them to the Stanley Hotel, where they decided to spend just one night. Arriving at the hotel as winter approached and most guests checked out, the Kings became the only residents for the night.

Stephen King, exploring the hotel alone while his wife slept, found himself captivated by the isolated setting, imposing structure, and eerie emptiness of the Stanley Hotel. His imagination soared when he stumbled upon Room 217, where he saw a clawfoot tub and pondered, "What if somebody died here?" That night, his dreams were plagued by vivid imagery of his son being chased through the hotel corridors by a fire hose. Awakening with a burst of inspiration, King famously remarked that the bones of The Shining were firmly set in his mind by the time he finished his cigarette while gazing at the Rockies.

Beneath the hotel's grandeur lies a network of underground caves that were once used by staff to navigate discreetly. Some attribute the paranormal experiences in this area to drafts caused by historical piping and ventilation systems. However, the presence of limestone and quartz in these caves has led ghost hunters to speculate that these elements contribute to the capture and manifestation of paranormal energy.

In a separate corner of the hotel, a pet cemetery holds the remains of beloved animals, including Cassie, a friendly golden retriever. Despite her passing, guests claim to hear her scratching at doors and delivering newspapers. Additionally, sightings of Lord Dunraven's ghost, the previous owner of the land, have been reported, with witnesses describing a spectral figure with only a torso in the billiard rooms.

Within the Concert Hall resides a mischievous ghost named Paul, often heard instructing workers and guests to leave as the hotel closes. Visitors have even reported feeling a nudge from Paul while working on the floors. Mrs. Stanley, the wife of the hotel's founder, is said to linger near the piano, emitting a fragrant rose scent and occasionally treating guests to a haunting melody. The Stanleys are also known for appearing throughout the hotel, often guiding lost children back to their parents.

The Grand Stairway is a hotspot for ghostly activity, with guests capturing strange figures in photographs. One guest discovered a womanly figure at the top of the stairs in their pictures, while others reported seeing twin-like girls dressed in white, reminiscent of The Shining. The eerie presence on the stairs adds to the hotel's mystique.

Room 217 at the Stanley Hotel has a haunting tale dating back to 1911. Elizabeth Wilson, a maid, survived a gas explosion in the room but is believed to linger there in spirit. Guests who have stayed in Room 217 share eerie encounters, including the sound of a weeping woman, mysteriously moved items, lights turning on and off, and clothes being folded without explanation. Mrs. Wilson is also said to disapprove of unmarried couples staying together, causing a cold force to come between them.

The fourth floor of the Stanley Hotel, nicknamed the "children's hallway," was once an attic for female employees, children, and nannies. Guests often hear the laughter and playful activities of unseen children. Specific rooms, such as 401, 407, 418, and 428, are associated with a sense of unease. Reports of inappropriate touching, beds being tucked in by invisible forces, and furniture mysteriously moving have further added to the mystique of these rooms.

In recent months, the Stanley Hotel has undergone renovations and upgrades, including the addition of 12 new Specialty Suites, balconies, and updated bathrooms. It remains to be seen if these changes have stirred up any additional paranormal activity within the historic walls of the hotel.

The Stanley Hotel's reputation as a haunted haven persists, with numerous guests recounting spine-chilling encounters with ghostly apparitions. From the depths of underground caves to the eerie ambiance of specific rooms, this historic hotel continues to captivate visitors seeking a brush with the supernatural. Whether you're a believer in the paranormal or a skeptic, a stay at the Stanley Hotel promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you questioning the boundaries between the living and the afterlife.

Conclusion:

The Stanley Hotel's rich history, from its role as a sanctuary for tuberculosis patients to its influence on Stephen King's writing, makes it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and fans of the supernatural. Today, the Stanley Hotel continues to welcome guests and offers a unique blend of historical charm and eerie allure. Whether you're seeking a glimpse into the past or hoping to experience the hotel's mysterious ambiance, a visit to the Stanley Hotel promises a memorable journey into both history and the world of literature.