The Southern Mansion in Cape May, NJ is haunted by the ghost of Esther Allen, niece of the original owner, George Allen, who is said to appear as a woman wearing gardenia perfume, her petticoats swishing, or dancing in the halls. Guests have also reported encounters with a Civil War soldier in Room 14, while the spirits of former boarders are described as playful and non-hostile. The mansion, built in 1863, was restored in 1995 after years of neglect and is now a popular bed and breakfast with a reputation for its paranormal activity. The most frequently cited spirit, Esther is known for the scent of gardenia perfume and the sound of her rustling petticoats. She is also said to crash the weddings held in the mansion's banquet hall. A soldier from the Civil War era sometimes appears in Room 14. Non-hostile spirits of previous residents may also be present, often described as playful. Guests report seeing Esther Allen dancing in the halls. The swishing of Esther's petticoats and other unknown noises have been reported. The distinct smell of gardenia perfume is sometimes detected, associated with Esther. Some visitors have reported feeling touched while sleeping in one of the rooms. The mansion was built in 1863 by Philadelphia industrialist George Allen, who chose the location for its strategic position during the Civil War.