The Ann Starrett Mansion was built in 1889 by George Starrett as a wedding gift for his wife, Ann. As one of Port Townsend’s most prominent Victorian homes, it is known for its intricate Queen Anne and Gothic Revival architecture and unique interior features. George and Ann lived in the home for over twenty years with their son, Edwin, and two servants.
Architectural features and artistry
The solar calendar fresco: The most famous feature of the mansion is the dome at the top of its 70-foot tower, which contains a fresco painted by artist Otto Chapman. Eight panels depict the four seasons and four virtues, with maidens believed to be painted in Ann Starrett’s likeness. At the equinoxes and solstices, sunlight passes through a window and a ruby-colored glass to illuminate the relevant fresco panel.
Free-floating staircase: The three-tiered spiral staircase within the tower is a free-hung design, a remarkable architectural feat believed to be one of the last of its kind in the United States. The balustrades and newel posts were carved from five different types of wood.
Interior details: The home features intricate original woodwork, frescoes, and murals on the ceilings of the public rooms.
Late 19th-century technology: George Starrett included one of the latest technologies of the era by building the house with central heating, a novelty in 1885.
The mansion was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in the 1970s and is recognized as a “pivotal” Victorian home in Port Townsend.
B&B and more: The mansion has served various functions throughout its history, including a private residence, a French restaurant, a boarding house, and a bed and breakfast.
Haunted reputation:
Paranormal activity at the Ann Starrett Mansion is widely reported, with most accounts centering on three specific spirits: the original owner Ann Starrett, her husband George, and the family nanny. The 1889 mansion, now a bed and breakfast, is featured in ghost guides and is a known destination for paranormal enthusiasts.
Reported spirits
Ann Starrett: Reportedly seen as a red-haired woman in a flowing white gown on the mansion’s famous freestanding staircase. An innkeeper once saw her from the waist up on the stairs, despite the full-length window showing no lower body.
George Starrett: A male entity is often sensed alongside Ann, particularly when her spirit is active. While less is reported about George, his presence is described as mellow and peaceful.
The Nanny: A woman in a black dress is the most frequently encountered and interactive of the spirits. She is often seen tidying up and keeping an eye on guests. She is typically pleasant but has been known to show displeasure with certain behavior.
Reported paranormal events
Physical manifestations: Guests have reported objects moving, such as pictures falling off walls and book pages turning by themselves with no apparent draft. A couple reported a canopy bed curtain shaking violently.
Temperature changes and sensations: Extreme cold spots have been noted in various parts of the mansion. Some guests have reported experiencing chills and goosebumps.
Unexplained sounds: Footsteps have been heard on the floor above even when the inn was empty. Unexplained thumping has also been reported. Communication with spirits: One paranormal experience involved a spirit named “Annabelle,” who revealed herself to a guest and claimed to protect the house from negative energy. She stated that while she did not live in the house, she enjoyed visiting it.
The Ann Starrett Mansion in Port Townsend is widely considered haunted. Ghostly activity is commonly reported by both guests and staff of the historic Queen Anne Victorian, which now operates as a bed and breakfast.