The Haunting of the Olde Pink House Restaurant & Tavern

Olde Pink House – Chatham County, Savannah, Georgia

Photograph ©Hotels-Rates.com


Address:
23 Abercorn Street
Savannah, Georgia 31401
(912) 232-4286

Originally constructed in 1771, the house on Abercorn Street was the creation of James Habersham Jr., a Revolutionary War hero who rose to the rank of "major." Crafted from red bricks covered in plaster, the house bore an unusual appearance as the brick's color bled through, resulting in a pink hue. James, disliking the pink color, would diligently paint the house white whenever the brickwork influenced the plaster.

Despite this color predicament, James and his wife raised three boys in the house, which has stood resilient for over two centuries. It has weathered significant historical events, including the great fire of 1820, the War of 1812, and emerged unscathed from the Civil War.

In the 1920s, a new owner embraced change, painting the house a pleasing shade of pink. Today, this historic mansion stands proudly as a five-star restaurant and tavern on Abercorn Street.

Legend has it that the Pink House is haunted by the ghost of James Habersham himself. Employees report frequent sightings of his apparition, particularly during the fall and winter months. Another friendly spirit, appearing as a Revolutionary War-era soldier, has been observed sitting at the bar, raising his drink to customers with a smile before vanishing.

The Pink House also hosts the ghost of a descendant of James Habersham, seen in solid form ordering a drink from the bar. This apparition reportedly walks down to the cemetery, disappearing into the Button family monument, where his body was laid to rest.

On the second floor, a female entity is said to haunt, her cries audible to patrons and employees alike. Additionally, the spectral presence of a former house servant lingers, along with the playful apparitions of slave children in the basement. These mischievous spirits engage in pranks like throwing dice against walls, striking bartenders with wine bottles, and locking people in restrooms.

Despite these eerie occurrences, patrons and employees regard the Old Pink House with affection, considering the friendly spirits as integral elements that contribute to the charm of this historic establishment. Reports of paranormal phenomena persist, adding an intriguing layer to the rich history of the Pink House.