The Shanley Hotel

April 29, 2012 in Haunted Locations

The Shanley Hotel

Napanoch, NY

By: Thelma Ankney

Located in Napanoch, New York sits the historic Shanley Hotel. It was originally built in 1845 by Thomas Rich and was known as “one of the area’s best”. Throughout the years it had been owned by many different people and had served different purposes. One of the things the hotel was known for was being a “Private Gentleman’s Quarter”. It was in March of 1895, while wealthy landowner Adolgh Wagner owned it, that a fire burned the building down. It was quickly rebuilt and reopened to the public. In October of 1906, James Louis Shanley, a successful businessman, purchased the “Napanoch Hotel” and it became famous for its extravagant parties and events. It even played host to the rich and famous such as Eleanor Roosevelt and Thomas Edison. After James passed away, it became too much for his wife, Beatrice, to handle so she sold it to Mr. Al Hazen in 1944.

After many years and many different owners, The Shanley is currently owned by Sal Nicosia. He has since been working to restore and preserve the beauty and history of the hotel. Each room is decorated from the old periods of time giving them uniqueness and personality. There’s even the old Gentleman’s Club and what was once the Bordello. Everyone that visits there is made to feel like it’s their home away from home.

The Shanley is rumored to be haunted by many spirits of the past. People have claimed to have been touched, pinched, poked, hearing voices and whistling, doors that open and close, a rocking chair that moves, strange odors and have even seen a woman in a white Victorian gown. The place is so active that Sal has opened it up to the paranormal community. Many groups and individuals have conducted paranormal investigations and have all, for the most part, have had some kind of experience. Many people return to the Shanley over and over, not just for the ghosts and history but because Sal is very warm and welcoming person. He makes you feel like you’re part of the Shanley family. So if you’re visiting the Shanley for its history, its beauty or its resident ghosts you’re most likely going to walk away with an unforgettable experience.

*Photo Property of LIPRI