Manassas National Battlefield is known for paranormal activity, particularly at the historic Stone House where a supposed curse from the 1860s led to inexplicable deaths and supernatural occurrences, including phantom footsteps and feelings of an icy presence, with park rangers reporting unexplained phenomena. The Curse of the Stone House: The hauntings at the Stone House allegedly began in 1866 after George Ayers, the owner, placed artillery shells within the house's walls to attract tourists. A curse is said to have befallen the Ayers family shortly after this act, resulting in the deaths of six family members. A malevolent presence is believed to linger within the house, causing disturbances for those who stay there, according to Instagram. People who attempt to sleep in the Stone House often report feeling an "icy grip," preventing them from sleeping for long periods. Park rangers once heard footsteps in the upper floors of the Stone House after locking the basement door, but found no one when they investigated. In a more startling report, one woman claimed the Stone House seemed to disappear and then reappear a short time later.