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| Photo Wikimedia Commons |
Durham Historic District, Durham, Strafford County, New Hampshire
One of New Hampshire’s oldest and most charming inns hides a centuries‑old secret: a lingering spirit said to roam its halls and tavern rooms. The Three Chimneys Inn and its connected Ffrost Sawyer Tavern date back to 1649, making the building one of the oldest structures in the state. Its long history and many owners have woven a tapestry of both warm hospitality and eerie encounters — enough to intrigue history lovers and phantom seekers alike.
A Home Built Before the Nation
The original portion of the building was constructed by Valentine Hill in 1649, just over a decade after the first European settlements in New Hampshire. Over time the home grew through additions, and the property would change hands several times. It eventually became a tavern and inn, known for its colonial charm and prime location overlooking the Oyster River.
Over the centuries, the Three Chimneys Inn has witnessed the ordinary — hearty meals, celebrations, travelers’ rest — as well as the extraordinary. Its age alone makes it a keeper of countless untold stories, but local lore focuses on one in particular: the spirit of a young woman named Hannah Hill.
The Ghost of Hannah
According to legend, Hannah — Valentine Hill’s daughter — died tragically after drowning in the nearby Oyster River, which runs just behind the inn. While historical records from the 1600s are limited, the story has endured through oral tradition, paranormal investigators, and staff accounts.
Visitors and employees alike claim that her presence can still be felt throughout the building. Some report subtle signs like doors locking on their own, furniture inexplicably moving, or silverware and other items disappearing and then reappearing in strange places. Others say that modern technology — computers, printers, and new electrical outlets — tends to malfunction within the inn, as though the spirit disapproves of contemporary devices.
Friendly, Mischievous Spirits
Despite the eerie activity, there are no widespread tales of malevolent behavior. On the contrary, many describe the spirit as curious or even playful. One well‑known report comes from a tavern chef who encountered a translucent figure dressed in period clothing. According to the story, the figure smiled and whispered “good morning” before fading away — a moment more warm than frightening for those who witnessed it.
Other guests have described subtle sensations rather than outright apparitions: cold drafts in isolated parts of the inn, soft footsteps when no one else is present, or strange knocking and tapping in walls and floors late at night. Some paranormal investigators who have visited have captured unexplained readings using devices such as EMF meters and thermal cameras.
A Historic Setting With Haunted Surroundings
The inn’s long past enhances its haunted reputation. It stood through early Colonial conflicts, survived a Native American raid in the late 1600s, and weathered centuries of regional history. Cemeteries and older homesteads nearby only add to the supernatural atmosphere, as do other local haunted sites within a short drive.
Today, the Three Chimneys Inn remains a beloved historic destination — a place where travelers can enjoy fine dining at the Frost Sawyer Tavern, cozy rooms with exposed beams, and the warm charm of an authentic Colonial‑era property. Yet for those who listen closely, some say the whispers of the past are never quite silent.
Visitor Information
Address: 17 Newmarket Road, Durham, NH 03824
Phone: (Check local directory or inn website for current contact)
Historical Note: Built in 1649, the oldest sections of the inn predate American independence by more than a century.