Culbertson Mansion, New Albany
The Culbertson Mansion in New Albany, Indiana, is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of its former occupants and those connected to its tragic history. The hauntings include sightings of apparitions, phantom noises, and unexplained electrical issues. The ghost of William Culbertson's second wife, Cornelia, is reportedly one of the most active spirits. Some believe she remains to watch over her children, particularly because their third wife, whom William married after Cornelia's death, was allegedly not a good stepmother. An apparition matching Cornelia's description has been seen multiple times. Staff have heard laughing and talking from the former ballroom on the top floor, but find no one there. The mansion's original owner is also a reported presence. One paranormal investigator claimed to have smelled pipe tobacco in a room where a man's figure was spotted at a desk, a scent consistent with Culbertson's habits. The third-floor servants' wing is known for significant ghostly activity. In one instance, a seeing-eye dog refused to enter the "punishment closet," a timeout room for the children, and acted defensively at the threshold. The carriage house, located behind the main mansion, is also a source of paranormal reports, though some stories may be rooted in local folklore or tales created for the annual haunted house event. Eerie noises have been heard after closing hours, and caretakers have claimed to see a candle floating up the main staircase. The mansion is known for strange electrical issues, with lights and equipment malfunctioning or activating on their own. The ghost of Cornelia is said to be fascinated with modern technology, like electric vacuum cleaners, which have reportedly turned on by themselves.