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| Photograph ©Haunted - Devon |
Address:
1351 Cranston Street
Cranston, Rhode Island 02920
(401) 944-9226
Constructed in 1790 by a man named William Sprague, the Sprague Mansion stands as a testament to his success in the textile industry, marking him as the pioneer in manufacturing cotton fabric with calico patterned prints.
Following William's passing, the mansion and family enterprise were bequeathed to his sons, Amasa and William II. Amasa assumed the role of overseeing the family business, while William II delved into a political career. Amasa, a key figure in Cranston, expanded and transformed the family home into the magnificent mansion we see today. Known for hosting influential guests, Amasa's name carried both recognition and respect.
Tragedy struck in December 1843 when Amasa embarked on a business trip, only to be discovered beaten to death the next morning near the Sprague estate. John Gordon, a man denied a liquor license by Amasa, emerged as the primary murder suspect and was hanged for the crime. However, later revelations suggested Gordon's innocence, leaving the true culprit undiscovered, shrouding the murder in perpetual mystery.
Since the early 1900s, reports of paranormal activity have permeated the mansion. The apparition of a man, likely Amasa Sprague, has been witnessed walking down the grand staircase and appearing in the wine cellar, often associated with cold gusts of air in that vicinity.
Other eerie occurrences include unexplained pulling of bedding off beds, even while occupied, in various parts of the house. The "Doll Room" witnesses lights flickering, phantom footsteps, and an unmistakable sense of presence. In 1968, a caretaker residing in the mansion conducted a séance, establishing contact with two spirits—Amasa Sprague and a former butler. The session concluded with the Ouija board spelling out the repetitive words "My land!" The caretaker's inquiry about what these restless spirits needed for peace elicited the response, "Tell my story."
Today, the Sprague Mansion continues to be a hotbed of paranormal reports, attracting investigators eager to explore its mysteries. The TAPS (Ghost Hunters) team conducted an investigation, sharing personal experiences and capturing EVPs within the historic house.