Nelson's Haunted Mansion
When looking over this deteriorating house on the west edge of Nelson, let your imagination run. Try to envision what it was like to live in the house a century ago. Ponder what creatures may call it home today. Our reporter did just that and shares his thoughts in the story below.
If you are too scared to walk, the Lyon Mansion has a wheelchair waiting for your friends to roll you out with.
Lance and Tami Sharp have purchased the old Lyon Mansion in Nelson and opened it up to those brave enough to enter. Tami was working when the idea came to her and in mentioned it to a coworker. Shortly after that, her coworker informed her the property would be for sale soon.
A gentleman who was doing work on the house for the previous owner told Tami and Lance he has had paranormal experiences in the home. One night at around 11:45, while he was walking down the steps from the third to the second floor, he heard the voice of a little girl. In turning to look for the voice, out of the corner of his eye, for an instant, he saw a little girl. On another occasion, he heard a creaking noise in one of the room. He went to investigate and found a broken rocking chair rocking on its own. As soon as he got out of the house, he saw a woman in a white dress standing in the window of the second floor. Tami took a photo on the second floor with Apple's "live" feature on by mistake where light seems to come from nowhere - no source - and streaked across the photo.
For a fee, a group can tour the home or even stay the night - though only a few have been able to last the entire night. Even EMF (electro-magnetic field) devices are provided along with complimentary beverages and coffee. With the rise of haunted houses and other horror themed attractions around the country, this old house on the hill could prove to be another hit.
One of the groups that stayed over Halloween weekend left a note for Tammy and Lance telling of their experience. While watching the film, The Conjuring, a dial radio in the room suddenly turned on and to full volume. At one point, lights began to flicker in the kitchen and the guests could hear a wind-up teddy bear upstairs. While they were investigating, several people heard footsteps behind them. Another group reported they did not have much activity but had a great time regardless!
While touring the home for this interview, there was an undeniable eeriness in the air. Lance and Tami walked me through all three levels and even took me to the fourth level tower, built for Col. Geo Lyon, Jr. so he could rehearse for his roles in local theater productions. On the third level, which is said to be a ballroom, the three of us heard what sounded like knocking on one of the doors in the room. It could have just been something blowing in the wind, but nevertheless it was creepy.
Last on my tour was the basement and tunnel - yes, tunnel. The basement features elaborate brick-work that surrounds a massive boiler, primitive food cooler, heater and a machine that seems to have made electricity for the enormous home. Finally, the tunnel, which is accessed from the back porch of the home, appears to have branched over to the Sharp's house next door at some point but has long-since been sealed.
I was then granted permission to roam the house and take photos. During this time I got the sense I was being watched several times.
Who's to say whether the home is haunted or not. You'll have to decide for yourself! To book your own tour or overnight stay, contact the Sharps in Nelson on Facebook - That is, if you're brave enough!
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