Overview
The Haunted Magnolia Hotel, Bed and Breakfast, & Ghost Tour in Sequin, Texas
Want to explore one of the most historic haunted hotels in Texas? Go on a chilling tour of the place? Or, if you’re really bold, you can stay the night. You just might encounter something beyond this world…
The Story of the Haunted Magnolia Hotel
What once began as a small, two-bedroom log cabin is now one of the most famous haunted hotels in all of Texas. The hotel was built in 1840 by James Campbell, who was an original Texas Ranger and co-founder of Seguin, Texas. Underneath the cabin, the large basement was used as a Native American jail cell, and is known as one of the worst jails in all of Texas’ history. Unfortunately, later Campbell was murdered by Comanche Natives, and the cabin was sold to Joseph F. Johnson, who expanded the hotel and added a stagecoach station.
For years, the hotel remained abandoned. It wasn’t until the new owners, Jim and Erin Ghedi, saw the Magnolia’s potential and restored it to its current state. Now, you can visit the hotel at any time and take a ghost tour, or stay the night.
The Haunted Magnolia Hotel Murders
This hotel has quite the history. In 1874, an unsuccessful bank robber committed what is known as the most horrific murders in the New Braunfels area. The man attempted to rob a local pharmacy but didn’t find any valuables. He then proceeded to the back of the building, where the pharmacist and his family lived. The robber came across some gold jewelry and then continued to poke around the place. A family friend named Helene was woken by the noise and went out to investigate, where she was met by the robber with a hatchet in hand. He slashed both of her eyes so she couldn’t identify him, and he proceeded to strike a 12-year-old girl in the head, killing her. After his crimes, the man returned to the hotel and was never convicted of any wrongdoing.
It wasn’t until years later that the man confessed on his deathbed to his crimes, but by then it was too late. Now, it’s rumored that the murderer still makes his presence known at the hotel. Reports say his room becomes unbearably hot and uncomfortable, and that he does not like to be antagonized.
Ghost Tours of the Magnolia Hotel
Want to go on a thrilling adventure? At the Magnolia, you have two options for ghost tours:
- VIP Night Ghost Tour: This spooky two-hour tour is led by the hotel owners, Erin and Jim Ghedi. They will take you to every room throughout the hotel, where you will encounter spirits and learn about the history of this famous hotel. It is noted that this tour takes place at night and is not for the faint of heart.
- History and Mystery Day Tours: This tour is a little less daunting. You must arrive at 1:00 pm sharp on your tour date, and the guide, Shauna, will take you throughout the premises. You will see the entire building, and may run into some ghosts. There is also a gift shop after the tour.
The choice is yours. Which tour do you dare to take?
Ghosts of the Magnolia Hotel
It’s been reported that 13 ghosts have been identified at the Magnolia. These spirits are deemed mostly pleasant, which may be disappointing to some thrill seekers. To name a few of these ghosts, there are:
- A Squatter – during the period that the hotel remained vacant, a squatter passed away, allegedly from suffocation.
- Itsy – a young girl who sadly passed from yellow fever.
- James Campbell – the founder of the hotel.
- Sara – a lady who died of a broken heart after her lover did not return.
Where is the Haunted Magnolia Hotel
If you’re in Texas, you’re in luck. The Haunted Magnolia Hotel is located in the historical city of Seguin. We suggest that you check this place out, especially if you’re in the area.
Address: 203 S Crockett St, Seguin, TX 78155
