Tour the May-Stringer House if you dare; It’s super haunted!
The May-Stringer House in Brooksville, Florida, is not your average historical site. With its ghostly legends, unexplained noises, and chilling sightings, this Victorian mansion is widely considered one of the most haunted places in Florida. Visitors don’t just tour the home—they feel it. The moment you step inside, the atmosphere changes. If you believe in the paranormal or just want to see if the stories are true, this is a place you won’t forget.
The dark history behind the house
Originally built in the 1850s by John L. May, the home was meant to be a peaceful place for his family. But John died of tuberculosis shortly after its completion, and his wife Marena remained with their daughters. Marena died during childbirth, and her infant daughter Jessie May only lived a few short years. Their deaths marked the beginning of the home’s tragic legacy.
Later owned by Dr. Sheldon Stringer, the house became a place where Civil War soldiers were treated, and many died. Today, more than eight spirits are believed to haunt the house, each tied to a chapter of sorrow and death.
Supernatural activity reported in the house
The May-Stringer House is a hotspot for ghost sightings and strange phenomena. Below are the most frequently reported supernatural events:
1. Jessie May’s haunted room
Visitors often hear a child’s laughter, whispering, and soft footsteps in Jessie May’s bedroom. Toys move on their own, balls roll across the floor without explanation, and EMF readers spike with no source in sight.
2. The Woman in White
A pale figure, believed to be Marena, is seen looking out from upstairs windows. Some guests have even captured her on camera during ghost tours.
3. The Screaming Soldier
A male voice shouting in pain has been recorded near what was once a Civil War treatment room. Investigators believe it is the spirit of a soldier who died during surgery.
4. Cold spots and unseen touches
Many visitors report cold spots in warm rooms, even in the middle of Florida’s summer heat. Others say they felt hands brushing their arms or tapping their shoulders when no one was near.
5. Strange lights and orbs
Photos taken throughout the house often reveal mysterious orbs and streaks of light. Some even show blurry figures standing in doorways or behind guests.
6. Doors that slam and furniture that moves
Unoccupied rooms have doors that slam shut and chairs that scrape across the floor. The sounds are so loud that nearby neighbors have called the police, only to find the building empty.
What visitors are saying
“I felt a cold hand wrap around mine while standing in Jessie’s room. I thought it was my daughter. She was in another room.” — Tamara L., Tampa
“The toys moved right in front of us. We all saw it. It was unreal.” — Jordan R., Gainesville
“I caught a full shadow figure on my camera upstairs. No one was behind me. It changed my view on ghosts forever.” — Alan M., Orlando
“As soon as I stepped inside, I got dizzy. My EMF reader went crazy. This place is definitely haunted.” — Mia S., Paranormal Investigator
How to visit the May-Stringer House
Located at 601 Museum Court in Brooksville, Florida, the May-Stringer House is operated by the Hernando Historical Museum Association. Day tours focus on the rich historical architecture and period furniture. Night tours and paranormal investigations require reservations and often sell out in advance, especially during Halloween season.
Bring your camera, stay alert, and prepare for something otherworldly.
Sources
- Hernando Historical Museum Association: https://hernandohistoricalmuseumassoc.com
- OnlyInYourState.com: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/florida/may-stringer-house-haunted-fl
- Travel Channel: https://www.travelchannel.com/shows/ghost-adventures
- Florida Backroads Travel: https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/may-stringer-house.html