The Founding of the Marshall House: A Testament to Visionary Entrepreneurship
The Marshall House, an iconic hotel in Savannah, Georgia, is a testament to the city’s rich history and architectural grandeur. This historic establishment was the brainchild of Mary Marshall, a forward-thinking businesswoman who made her mark in the mid-19th century.
During the 1840s and 1850s railroad boom, Savannah experienced a significant expansion in size and population. This period of rapid growth created a pressing need for accommodations and housing in the city.
With her keen business acumen, Mary Marshall recognized this opportunity and embarked on developing several properties. The Marshall House was the most notable, which opened its doors in 1851. Mary’s vision was to create a hotel and establish a landmark that would become integral to Savannah’s identity.
The Marshall House during the Civil War: A Sanctuary Amidst Turmoil
The Marshall House was more than just a hotel; it served as a sanctuary during one of the most tumultuous periods in American history – the Civil War. From 1864 to 1865, the hotel was occupied by Union troops led by the formidable General William Tecumseh Sherman.
The building was repurposed as a Union hospital, providing much-needed care for wounded soldiers until the war’s end.
Today, the Marshall House invites guests to visit the 3rd floor of the hotel, where a collection of original letters, newspapers, prints, and documents offer a tangible connection to Savannah’s experience during the Civil War.
This collection serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s resilience and the Marshall House’s crucial role during this challenging period.
The Marshall House in the Late 19th and Early 20th Centuries: A Journey Through Time
The Marshall House has witnessed numerous closures and reopenings, each marking a new chapter in its history. 1895 the hotel closed its doors, only to reopen them in 1899.
This reopening marked a new era for the Marshall House, as it was now equipped with modern amenities like electric lights and hot and cold baths on every floor.
The turn of the century brought changes in ownership and name. In 1933, Herbert W. Gilbert, a prominent hotel and real estate man from Jacksonville, leased the building and renamed it the Gilbert Hotel. However, the original name was restored in 1946, marking a return to its roots and a new chapter in the hotel’s history.
The Marshall House from Mid to Late 20th Century: A Period of Transition
The mid to late 20th century was a period of significant transition for the Marshall House. In 1957 the hotel had to close due to economic and structural reasons.
Despite this, the ground floor remained active, housing various shopkeepers and stores until 1998. This period, while challenging, showcased the adaptability of the Marshall House as it continued to serve the community in different ways.
The Restoration and Reopening of the Marshall House: A Return to Glory
The dawn of a new millennium brought a new lease of life for the Marshall House. In 1999 the hotel underwent extensive restoration, again becoming a Savannah fixture.
The restoration efforts were meticulous, with great care taken to preserve or recreate the hallmarks of the historic hotel. These included the original staircases, wood floors, fireplaces, brick walls, and several claw foot tubs dating back to 1880.
The restoration efforts did not go unnoticed. The Marshall House has received multiple accolades for its preservation efforts, awarded by esteemed organizations such as the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation and the Historic Savannah Foundation. These accolades recognized the hotel’s commitment to preserving its historic charm while offering modern comforts.
The Marshall House Today: A Living Piece of History
Today, the Marshall House is one of Savannah’s most popular hotels. It’s not just the prime location on Broughton Street or the cozy ambiance that draws travelers.
It’s the rich history and the stories that the walls of the hotel hold. The Marshall House is more than just a hotel; it’s a living, breathing piece of Savannah’s history.
Whispers of amicable apparitions wandering the corridors lend an air of intrigue and allure to the hotel. These tales, shared by guests, add another layer to the rich tapestry of stories that make the Marshall House a truly unique destination.
About Mary Marshall: The Woman Behind the Landmark
As you enter the lobby of The Marshall House, you are greeted by an oil painting of Mary Marshall, the hotel’s original owner.
Mary Marshall, born in the final year of the Revolution and lived until 93, during the waning days of the South’s Reconstruction, was a significant personality throughout many of Savannah’s tumultuous historical events.
She was considered successful in Savannah’s financial and social circles at her death in 1877. Mary Marshall’s legacy lives on in the hotel that bears her name, welcoming guests to experience a piece of Savannah’s history.
Haunted Whispers: The Supernatural Side of the Marshall House
The Marshall House, with its long and storied history, is not just known for its architectural beauty and historic significance. The tales of supernatural activity within its walls add a layer of intrigue and mystery to this iconic landmark.
The hotel’s past as a Civil War hospital is believed to be a significant factor contributing to its haunted reputation. The Marshall House was a sanctuary for wounded soldiers, whose pain and suffering echoes are said to linger even today.
Guests and staff have reported a variety of paranormal experiences. One of the most common reports involves the sounds of ghostly children playing and running down the halls late at night.
These playful spirits are believed to be remnants of the hotel’s past when it served as a hospital and, later, when it housed families during various periods of its history.
Another frequently reported phenomenon involves faucets turning on by themselves. Guests have been startled by the sudden rush of water in the middle of the night, only to find no one else present. Some speculate that this could be the work of former patients from the Civil War era, attempting to soothe their wounds.
The third floor houses a collection of Civil War artifacts and is a hotspot for paranormal activity. Guests have reported feeling sudden cold spots, hearing unexplained noises, and seeing apparitions. These experiences are often attributed to the soldiers treated at the Marshall House during the war.
Despite these eerie occurrences, the spirits of the Marshall House are considered to be friendly. The ghostly happenings are seen as echoes of the past rather than malevolent entities. For those who taste the supernatural, staying at the Marshall House offers a unique opportunity to experience a piece of Savannah’s haunted history firsthand.