LOWVILLE – Is Martinsburg’s historic General Walter Martin House haunted?
Central New York ghost hunters, paranormal investigators based in Syracuse, will reveal findings from two recent visits to the historic home commonly known as Greystone Manor, and explain their techniques in an Oct. 8 episode of the Lewis County Historical Society . The program is scheduled for 2 p.m. at the Society’s Blue Room at S. State St. 7552.
Completed in 1805, the 10,264-square-foot limestone mansion was originally the home of General Martin, for whom Martinsburg was named. The general was one of Lewis County’s most important political leaders in the early 1800s, and campaigned to name Martinsburg the county seat. He died at home on December 10, 1834. Since then, the mansion has taken on a variety of roles, from a private residence to a tavern, a nursing home for Canadian soldiers during World War I, most recently before the Historical Society took ownership in 2003, by Irving and Ellen Post Opened Greystone Manor restaurant in 1973 at the Route 26 location.
The Society purchased the mansion in 2005 and added the structure to the National and National Register of Historic Places in 2008. Taking advantage of the grant opportunity, the Historical Society undertook renovations to stabilize the structure of the building. Interior renovations still need to be done before deciding on the long-term use of the building. Initially, members of the society hoped to use the mansion to house their extensive collection of permanent exhibits, most of which are now housed in Lovell.
Paranormal investigator Raquel L. Smith said ghost hunters have found evidence of paranormal activity and will share video and audio recordings.
Some people may be interested in their findings, she said.
“There are rumours that the general and his brother split the house in half because their wives were not getting along,” Ms Smith said. “We have the answer to that.”
They will also talk about the life of General Martin and the history of his family.
To learn more about ghost hunters in Central New York, visit their Facebook page or for inquiries, email centralnewyorkhosthunters@gmail.comMs Smith said the volunteer group would not investigate individual homes.
Cole Mullin, the Historical Society’s office manager, said the event was a way to welcome the public back. The Historical Society is open Tuesday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm for research or inquiry.
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