Pythian Castle in Springfield, MO is described as haunted, with reported paranormal activity stemming from its history as a charity home for Knights of Pythias, a military hospital, and a place where German and Italian prisoners of war were held. Guests and tour-goers have reported experiencing paranormal phenomena, such as physical touches and being grabbed on the arm or shoulder, and the spirit of a child has been sensed within the castle walls. A spirit named "Mr. Boots" is said to reside in the tunnels beneath the castle. Visitors have reported being touched or having their arms and shoulders grabbed. Some mediums have sensed the presence of a child's spirit within the castle. A ghost named Mr. Boots is rumored to be heard walking in the tunnel system under the castle. The castle was built by the Knights of Pythias as a retirement home for their members' families. During World War II, the U.S. military took control and used it as a hospital unit for wounded veterans and housed German and Italian prisoners of war in the basement.