Blue Skies and Iron Bars: Paranormal Penitentiary

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Normally, I would post photos and experiences much quicker after visiting a place, but I've delayed this particular post because it contains a more person reveal of what I feel, see and do. I completely understand skepticism. Heck, I'm pretty darn skeptical about many areas and people investigating the paranormal. I think we all have to maintain a grounded approach, while still remaining open to the not so easily explained. I give much thought to power of suggestion, placebo effect, psychosomatic reaction, expectations, physiology, and natural or man-made contamination. Science and faith can collaborate if we allow it to. I can't always explain why or how these things happen - or why some individuals can sense and others can't -- I simply know...well, me. 

sensing certain things is no more strange than being able to smell, taste or hear. It feels natural and I sometimes forget (until I'm reminded or made fun of) that not everyone picks up on the same things that I do. For me, it seems like a basic instinct, but I'm often reminded that it is supposedly 'paranormal' to do and feel what I sometimes can. Since childhood, I've been called: weird, unusual, eccentric, imaginative, nutter, creepy, freak, psycho and crazy by kids and yes, adults. Yeah, I've heard it all and for a long time I've kept my mouth shut, isolating myself from most things (which doesn't really work too well), and not speaking about it except to a very close and trusted inner circle of friends. I was actually letting others lack of perception rule my daily life.

Even though my suppression may have eased an individual's discomfort with the subject matter, it caused a toxic level of anxiety, nightmares, phobias, frustration and unhappiness that built over the years within myself. Finally I reached the critical point where I had to say, "Tell Hell with the Haters!"  Now, I can laugh at being 'stranage' or 'crazy' because I'm secure enough with whom I am to know that I'm not. I'm actually lucky and gifted and God bless me, different! I have much to offer and enjoy exploring the world again (with all its extras). There is a science, exploration, richness, balance and understanding that comes with listening to all the senses. There is good and bad, harmony and disturbing chaos. I've decided to share this part of my life with others and hope it facilitates discussions, questions, generates answers, validations and shares experiences that lead to understanding or more theories.  In addition, I want to be a confident source and example to my children.  Strength wins over cowardliness and light over dark.

Old Idaho Penitentiary

1870-1973

Whenever I travel, whether it's for work, vacation or family, I try to make the most of my time in every place. You never know when you might get back and I can't stand missing out on an opportunity. Recently, I've been traveling with my daughter to various college campuses. After narrowing down her choices, we decided the final decision had to be based on our personal experience and tours. Our last college to visit was Boise State located in Idaho. We literally had 24 hours (the turn and burn travel method) in the city. 

Unfortunately, by the time we landed, the Old Penitentiary was closing. Hey, I'm flexible...I can re-work the schedule in a heartbeat! Time is a wasting, so we had to switch gears. Instead, we toured the immediate area around the campus, stores, historical areas, capitol building, parks etc. We located everything a college kid would need or want -- as well as, conducting my very scientific 'is this a relatively safe place for my daughter at night' assessment. Then it was dinner, shower, and bed because we had an early morning.  

At 8:45 am we were up (not completely awake), but functioning the best I can at this hour. We skipped breakfast, because who the hell can eat at this ungodly hour, and went straight to the parking garage. We embarked on the student guided campus tour, learning all we needed to know about prancing ponies and bright orange skinny jeans at Boise St. Promptly, following the campus tour, we hit the Student Union for some authentic college cuisine. Afterward, I swiftly spotted a Starbucks located in the library (bonus) before hoofing it to the Honors College to meet with an advisor. After a Q&A and quick tour, we were off across campus to the science building to grill the Biology department representative.  

Now, the clock hands are pointing at 2:30 pm. Determined to make it to the penitentiary before our plane departs, we hustled to the parking garage. Oh, wait...we hustled to the wrong parking garage, oops! Yep, after a slight panic attack that our rental car got towed and wasting valuable time, we were soon back on track, found our car and sped across town to the penitentiary for a quick history and spook session. 

May I begin by saying that for those who know me or have read previous posts, know that I travel and tour many places that have paranormal claims. I've grown up with the paranormal and I'm not readily frightened or anxious around such things. I must say, either I was having an 'off' day, or Idaho Pen let me have it because even in the daylight, with clear beautiful blue skies and birdies cooing, this place left me a bit more than unsettled. I had a hard time entering almost every building and remaining. A few places I even refused to go through or into. I rarely do that!  I can honestly say, I don't know if I'd go back at night to this particular location. Perhaps, I wouldn't sense as much or have such a strong reaction, but it definitely made a lasting impression. My advice, investigators beware and don't fool around. This is a place for the seasoned and serious paranormal researcher or intuitive. Enter with respect (as you should all places) and protection. You've been warned.

Boise Blue Sky and Bars (the iron kind)

Inside the main yard

At the Old Idaho Penitentiary, we were greeted by a volunteer and given a map. This site provides the unique opportunity for visitors to explore (self-guide) the buildings. Most historical sites and museums are rather restricted, crammed with tourists or monitored, that can alter or hinder the experience, both normal and paranormal. This place was amazing because we pretty much had the entire area to ourselves, and most of it was open and left in its natural state.  

Compared to other prison tours, you're not going to get fancy headphones and talking information boards, or a gift shop at the end of a guided tour at this Old Idaho Pen. It's authentic, raw and worth the stop.  If you happen to have questions or just feel chatty, the gentleman at the front office is extremely informative, approachable and friendly. He was happy to answer inquiries, without being intrusive.    

Cell House 2  Was built in 1899 and is also referred to as the "North Wing." This building houses two-man cells with no indoor plumbing.  During the years of operation, a "honey bucket" was placed in the corner of each cell and served as a toilet. During the riot in 1973, parts of this building burned in a fire set by inmates. You can observe charred areas on the underside of the overhangs.  

The doorways are very narrow and the partial ceiling, including the height of cells, is rather low. My daughter stands at a whopping 5'2" and she didn't have a lot of clearance. We both wondered how normal size or large men functioned and moved within these spaces. It must have been extremely uncomfortable and claustrophobic.

The left photo shows the spacious two-man bunk.  In the right photo is the ventilation hole where each honey bucket toilet (similar to a chamber pot) would sit. Remember, this building was used until 1973.  Gross!

Okay, that is the brief documented tourist history, but what did I experience?  

From the onset, I had difficultly putting one foot in front of the other at this place. Even though I really wanted to see everything, it was actually hard to force myself to enter any of the buildings. Both my daughter and I couldn't bring ourselves to walk through the connecting hallways. It literally felt as if there was a barrier or energy field that kept us out. We'd approach, turn, look at each other and ask if the other 'felt' that. Oh, I know I could have pressed on, but something didn't want us back there, so we respected the warning. 

As soon as I crossed the threshold of Cell House 2, I paused to focus on my breathing. There is anxiety from being nervous, then there is anxiety from energy. I was dealing with processing the energy of the place. In this particular space, I never felt like I could fully catch my breath.  

In the entry I was immediately met by something that keep touching my hair and left side. This ghost stuck close to me the entire time I toured the prison and wouldn't stop messing with my hair, sending tingling sensations (the creepy kind) down my neck and arms.  It felt like someone lightly touching you while at the same time walking through cobwebs.  

Even though my daughter has grown up around me, I still tend to contain or control my reaction to things because I don't want to startle or frighten her. So in this case, I let her go ahead and observed her (and the space around her) and hung back. Yep, while she wasn't looking I was swatting at invisible cobwebs and mumbling to the ghost man to stop touching me. Of course, he didn't listen, so I had to exert my will a bit louder. Now, I'm shuddering and wiping at invisible stuff, while squirming around. Yeah, I imagine I looked liked a schizophrenic off her meds, but hell, no one was in the building (thank God!) so public embarrassment wasn't an issue this time. However, my daughter started laughing (instead of being scared), she asked me what was going on? I told her that this guy was giving me the willies and messing with me. She confidently walked by and said, "Guess he likes you -- better you than me," and marched toward the next building. Geez, thanks partner!

Admittedly, the only history I know about the Idaho Penitentiary is what was given to me by the volunteer. I know even less about the inmates and guards who resided or worked there. For this reason, I'm including a description/impressions of the man who tagged along with me. If any other, readers, PN researchers or historians have info. or know who this might be, I'd love to hear from you.

How my new admirer appeared to me:  He didn't give me a name. He wasn't interested in revealing that information to me. He wasn't much taller than me, guessing around 5'8-5'9. He was younger, I'd say in his 20's with a fit build, but thin.  His hair was in a buzz cut and was a dark blondish tone. He had blueish gray eyes and a country boy smile. However, he was mischievous and despite his flirty demeanor, I felt he had a darker side. He enjoyed being annoying, liked watching for a reaction, was curious but also quick-tempered if offended. I'm sure he could convince a lot of people of his innocence, but my impression is he was the type of good-looking boy that could turn mean, fast. He had no problem invading personal space and enjoyed staying uncomfortably close - either to intimidate or creep. Throughout the tour I referred to him as my temporary hitchhiker, because he went everywhere I did. He didn't just follow, he was so close, that he continual touched my left side the entire time. With one exception: He did not enter Cell House 3. Instead he lingered in the yard with his hands in his pockets as if he was watching (stand-offish) the other inmates and activities going on.

Cell House 3 Was originally condemned for habitation in 1921 and was converted into a shoe factory. Then in 1928, was remodeled for inmate occupancy and became the first house with indoor plumbing. Bonus!  

Both my daughter and I experienced the same sensations while in this building. First, we felt like we were on a boat. You get this sort of rocking, unstable feeling even when standing still. Although, this is an old building, it is solid. I can't say the flooring is completely even, but usually in spaces with varying flooring, you get what I call a 'fun house effect,' this was more like a continually rocking back and forth sensation. If I didn't know better, I would have thought we had entered the haul of a vessel. Secondly, and this happened when we were climbing the stairs, we both got a strange poking/stabbing feeling in our stomach area. We agreed it felt like when a person pokes to tickle you, but it actually hurts instead.  That is the best way we could describe it. It was uncomfortable and felt like someone was sticking a finger in my left side and wiggling it around.

second floor  

On the second floor (see pic. right) is a row of cells and the railing to the right. Today, there is fencing that runs from floor to ceiling to prevent anyone from tumbling over, but back in the day, it was open until a few inmates took a dive with the help of a hostile peer or guard. As you can see, it is very narrow. People would have to walk single file. Again, the place and how it is designed already gives a 'clastraphobic' feeling, which does heighten anxiety. It truly wasn't that high up, but it felt like you could fall at any moment, and the swaying sensation didn't help. Lauren was more daring than I was and ventured nearly to the end, but was spooked by something in a cell further down. Like I said above, I'm typically not spooked, but I had a very difficult time navigating this location.  

Cell House 5 - Maximum Security Built in 1954, this building housed the most violent offenders. It also included a gallows and 'Death Row.'

Above is a photo taken in the observation room of the gallows execution area. The metal trap door on the floor in where the prisoner would stand, the metal level on the right was for the executioner. This was on the upper floor, directly next to the Death Row hall and cells. In the reflection (behind my daughter) is a wood bench. This is what visitors of the execution would sit on to witness a prisoner's death. 

In the exterior hall I found a foot print stain on the concrete. It looked as if it had been burned or charred in the cement. I don't know if this occurred during the fire/riot or who it might have belonged too. I have a rather large foot (for a female) wearing a size 9, so you can estimate the size of the boot that made this print.

As I approached Death Row I was hit by a horrible and excruciating stabbing pain in my heart. I gasped and froze. My daughter obviously heard me and turned around. I happened to snap a picture (mostly because I was squeezing the crap out of my phone) due to the pain I suddenly felt. I caught my daughter's reaction to my reaction. She's wondering if I'm okay. She later confessed that she was worried that I was looking at something standing behind her. I didn't mean to freak her out, but this time, I couldn't stop my immediate reaction. My eyes were wide and I immediately had tears welling up. I backed up and let her know I didn't think I'd be able to go in the Death Row hallway. I honestly was trying not to cry because it hurt. I was thinking, "I might be having a real heart attack!" We did immediately leave the area and after a few minutes outside, I was cleared of any strange feelings. 

Later, the volunteer told us a few Death Row inmates had commented suicide, one man hung himself. However, many inmates were stabbed in this facility and several items were confiscated from cells and the prison yard.  

Siberia and The Cooler

I think a quote from my daughter pretty much sums up our impressions: "This place is Hell on Earth." Naturally, the state of the cells, size, conditions and confinement are all designed for discomfort. It's not such a big stretch to find these places dismal, depressing, repressive and creepy. Putting that all aside, we found it very difficult to enter the "Cooler," which was built in the early 1920's. Was it a trick of the eye, perception of light or construction that made us hesitate? The interior is so dark, that even with the door open, you can't see what is inside. It is simply, pitch black. Blacker than black (those who have experienced this, know what I mean). However, once you take the blind plunge across the threshold, you'll be able to see perfectly.  

That's the entire width of the cell. There is a round 'skylight' in the ceiling - but that is it. No cot or toilet. You can easily put out your arms and touch both walls at the same time. Amazingly, each cell contained between 4- 6 men.  Yep, you heard me correctly! This place makes Death Row look like a four star hotel!

Siberia (Solitary Confinement)
Damp, cold and completely maddening. I can't imagine that anyone who went in with their mental capacities intact, came out with them.  

Each door (with slot) is a separate cell. There is only one entrance and one hall. This the entire interior.

That's it. The building housed twelve 3x8 cells! A single inmate per cell lived in here sometimes up to 6-12 months!  It's an abomination, but might still be better than the cooler. Either place is just horrifying. I can't imagine the psychological fall out from places like these. Would it work to deter behavior? Interestingly, some of the rule breaking or actions that could land you in here were ones that a person might be forced to do to protect themselves. Suffer injury, assault, abuse, death or Siberia? What would you do?

I often find it difficult to put into words what I feel or see. For me, In my mind's eye, many imagines can pop up.  I'm slowly learning what they mean to me, but they might not make sense to others. While in these two places (Siberia and The Cooler), besides the obvious horrid rush of emotions: anger, sadness, depression, exhaustion, hopelessness and yes, crazy - I didn't see or necessarily feel any new ghosts. Instead what I saw was black scribbles everywhere I looked. It's as if someone is drawing all over the place, scribbling in a madness with a black sharpie.  

The energy is just a dark incoherent mess of chaos.  It's busy, frantic and all over the place.  It reminds me of a big energy tantrum. Definitely, not something I like to see or feel.  Sometimes it remains in this state, but other times it can actually gather and form into a inky dark blob or form.  What I experienced during my time in Siberia and the Cooler was what I refer to as black scribbles or static (like snow on a TV).  

Did You Watch the Dead Files?

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Did you watch the Dead Files, Buried Alive episode last night?  Yep, I got the shivers a few times during the viewing. If you read yesterday's post, you know that I recorded some of the experiences I personally had at the Merchants Cafe on January 3, 2013 prior to the airing of the Dead Files new episode.  

Even though I've been managing and dealing with abilities from a young age, I still question, doubt and always wonder if what I feel, see or experience might have a normal explanation. Yes, there are plenty of times I second guess or keep things to myself. After all, this stuff is difficult to prove.  Besides, if I spoke every time I picked up on something, I'd never shut up (and drive my family and friends crazy). Many times, my experiences aren't what I'd consider 'major,' or noteworthy, but maybe that is because I'm used to it happening. After all, it's how I live and have always lived.  Sometimes I forget that not everyone is as sensitive or intuitive as me.  

Was Anything Different, Similar or Validating?

In my post That Was Then, This is Now I highlighted the 'major' moments.  However, as a group and on my own we had other experiences that were discussed, but I didn't go into detail because they were feelings that simply can't be verified or backed up. I assure you, I believe what everyone claimed or reported because I too, was feeling the same things.  

I mentioned that upon entering the building I experienced a squeezing cramp around my heart area that lasted the entire evening. It was uncomfortable, but I was able to get through dinner and a walk-through. I'm used to this type of stuff happening. However, I noticed my daughter kept rubbing her chest as if she had an ache. She confirmed that her chest was bothering her, something she is not used to feeling. Half way through our visit, Darcy told us about her illness and how it affected her heart, chest and almost killed her. In my head, I thought, 'Ah-ha, that makes sense.'  

Prior, during or after my walk-through there was no mention of the previous experiences that occurred on the downward stairs concerning reports of being pushed and seeing white mist form. I first learned of this when watching the episode. Our group gasped during the viewing because I had taken a photo of the white mist forming on the stairs directly behind Lauren. At the time, I was just snapping pictures with no idea that claims had been made in this particular area. That was a validating moment and piece that added weight to what we captured and experienced.

As I mentioned in yesterday's post, I saw a very strong and vivid white mass form and shoot up through the ceiling while in the basement area. Amy verified the activity I felt and saw in the episode. Even though my vision wasn't as clear as hers, it was validating. Unlike her, I could not determine if it was male or female, but rather appeared to me as an energy form (both downstairs and upstairs) that was white.  

The most shocking and similar confirmation were the black 'creepy' things both Amy and I saw during our time at the Merchants Cafe. Again, her abilities are crazy good. She was able to discern way more than I ever could. What I saw was a black mass, moving, similar to spilled oil on the ceiling of the bar. She confirmed these entities and provided more information that they had something to do with the fire. 

Personally, I saw the black mass thing at the very end of my walk. I was actually getting ready to leave. I had stopped to talk to Darcy one last time.  During the conversation, I still had the pain in my chest (which I was trying to ignore). By this time, I was physically getting worn out and was ready to get some air and space. I knew I wasn't going to last much longer within the walls. However, something else began to occur. I started to feel like I was having trouble breathing - as I mentioned, like I had just finished running at a high altitude. It was actually difficult to maintain a conversation without pausing and taking a deep breath (kind of embarrassing when you're trying to appear 'normal'). I remember thinking to myself, man, I really need to get out of here before I pass out!  That's when I saw the black mass thing and stopped my conversation to alert Darcy to what I was seeing.  I really wanted to stay longer, but the pain in my chest and trouble breathing forced me to exited the building.  Once I got into the car, I expressed what I was physically experiencing. My family is used to hearing these types of accounts from me. However, another in the group confessed that they too were having trouble breathing since the moment we entered. The 'feeling' did not relieve immediately, but rather lingered until we crossed the Lake Washington. I literally let out a heavy sigh and said, 'Ah, I can finally breathe again.' At this same time everyone else noted they felt completely normal again. Note: Those who experienced this typically are not sensitive or easily influenced.  

When Amy talked about the black creepy entities coupled with what they could do or make people feel i.e. specifically trouble breathing, we again all gasped during the viewing. Of course, everyone immediately looked at me because I was so vocal about what I saw and felt at the time. With this particular experience, I was extremely confident--no doubts about what I saw or felt.  I got the instant chills and felt like I had tiny spiders crawling up and down my back. Yep! Tingles of validation. What Amy confirmed is what I had described the previous night. 

I absolutely agree with Amy, that anyone who is sensitive will have a hard time in the Merchants Cafe--it truly is that overwhelming. Perhaps, this will lessen if the owner continues to cleanse the space. 

Unfortunately, I did not get a shot of the corner where I saw the black entity. After thumbing through some online images I spotted this full view.  In the upper right hand corner (ceiling) at the end of the bar is where I saw the black oily mass sliding along the wall and ceiling. 

I'm certain I encountered three different paranormal entities that evening.  I believe the white form downstairs was not the same being as the white tight ball of zippy energy that darted across towards the bar upstairs. Also, the black mass was something completely different and I don't believe it was the only one. If I had stayed longer, I do believe I would have seen another and possibly experienced more, but physically I was not able to remain in the building. 

Spooked in Seattle hosts tours that include the Merchants Cafe and other historical places in the Seattle area. They also have a photo galley on their site along with a list of special events. My investigation at the Merchants Cafe was independent of any tour, but people always ask me if one is available so I decided to include the link. http://spookedinseattle.com/  I encourage anyone who is interested to check it out, also, stop by the Merchants Cafe to have a beer and burger!

That Was Then, This Is Now: Haunted Merchants Cafe

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Airing tonight on the travel channel is the Burned Alive episode of The Dead Files featuring Seattle's Pioneer Square Merchants Cafe.

Steve and Amy inspect alarming paranormal activity at a Seattle restaurant. While Steve unearths evidence of a bloody massacre, Amy encounters several disturbing entities that want to harm the living.

All-New: Fri, Jan. 4 @ 10|9c

My Ghostly Experience
Last night, I did my own non-scientific walk-through investigation of the Merchants Cafe prior to the airing of Dead Files.  I was curious to see if I'd pick up on anything and if so, would it be similar to what Amy discusses?  Above, is the first photo I shot. Before even entering the building, and at about this point on the street, I started getting a tightening in my chest.  The best way to describe it is similar to getting a squeezing cramp around my heart area.

Once inside, we chose a table in the rear of the restaurant directly beneath the portrait of the Oriental Dancing Girl.  Despite the space heaters, there were patches of ice cold.  For me, this cold lingered.  It remained concentrated to my thighs. It was as if a ghost was sitting on my lap for the majority of the time I
was seated at the table.

I promptly asked Darcy, the owner of Merchants Cafe, about her experience with the Dead Files crew.  She told me that they truly did not have any contact before or during the investigation and that yes, Amy does not know where she is going prior to the walk through to ensure validity to her claims.  It took hours to cover and conceal everything that might be suggestive to Amy and yes, everyone was kept separated until the reveal.  Darcy stated that besides what was discussed in the reveal, she still has no idea what else Amy experienced on her walk through.  She will be seeing it for the first time tonight when the Dead Files airs!  In addition, Darcy asked crew members what they thought and believed.  A few said that they personally hadn't seen anything during filming UNTIL, well....the Merchants Cafe.  A particularly skeptical cameraman prior to  shooting said he's never experienced anything paranormal.  However, that all changed on the night they filmed the Merchants Cafe. While setting up downstairs the man saw something that frightened him so much that he literally screamed and ran up the stairs and out of the building.  He had no desire to re-enter.

After spending time downstairs and beneath Merchants I can honestly say, I believe his ghostly account was the real deal.  I had my own experience with a white mist.  While I was trying to take a photo of my son and his girlfriend a white mist formed (quickly) near the floor (viewed in the left corner of my camera frame) and shot up in a diagonal fashion and exited through the ceiling.  It was close enough to me that I yelped and jumped backwards due to being so startled.  I was solely focused on getting a good photo of the couple. I wasn't thinking paranormal at that precise moment, but something was trying to manifest and make its presence known.  With the group a little freaked out, we went upstairs.  We were just entering the upper dining area when another mist ball shot horizontally from left to right (moving towards the bar) in front of us.

Mist forming behind Lauren

Since I'd already taken up so much of Darcy's time, I hesitated telling her what just happened, but my daughter encouraged me to do so.  I recanted the experience and was immediately validated by Darcy.  She said that many people have described the exact same thing -- even down to the location and movement. However, it didn't stop there!  While I'm telling Darcy about what I just saw, I begin having trouble breathing.  The feeling got so intense that it was difficult not to express my discomfort.  It felt as if I'd just gone for a run at a high altitude.  At the time, I didn't know that other people in my group were also experiencing the same sensation. BUT wait...there is more!  As I'm talking, and not breathing very well, my eyes keep darting to the right because I am seeing this black mass slithering up the wall and around the ceiling in the corner of the bar. It's moving like an amoeba halfway up and across and then repeating this strange 'globby' motion. I'm desperately trying to maintain eye contact with Darcy, but this thing is so distracting. Finally, I interrupt our conversation to let her know what I'm seeing. At this point, she'll either believe me or think I'm a total nutter! She calmly responds that yes, that is also something people claim to see and in fact, just last week a gentleman was sitting at the bar and announced he had to move because the black mass was so distracting.

Just a reminder, I have no idea what Amy's experiences or findings will be tonight on Dead Files. All of us who were at the Merchants Cafe last night will be having a viewing party at my house. The Merchants Cafe is also hosting a viewing party at the bar. I will be finding out Amy's finding (with the rest of the world) when the show airs.

I did ask Darcy if they have done any of the things recommended by Amy.  She confirmed they have saged and salted the building. She also noted that when they put salt in the front right corner of the entry to the building, the light bulb in the floor lamp exploded.  However, they have yet to do the other two recommendations.  With the activity in this place, I encourage Darcy to follow through with what Amy suggests and continually sage and salt the place.  With the history, high activity, and nature of the building, paranormal activity will always be coming and going -- but the darker entities oozing in the ceiling need to be seriously dealt with because it is negative and will make employees and customers highly uncomfortable.

History of the Merchants Cafe 
*historical info. obtained from link http://www.619western.com

Merchants was constructed in 1890 and designed by W. E. Boone (a direct descendent of Daniel Boone). The café is one of the oldest operating restaurants at its original location in the Seattle area and possibly on the west coast. When it opened its doors as a saloon, they served five-cent beers to miners waiting to visit the upstairs brothel. 

The rooms of the upstairs brothel are now private apartments, but visitors can continue their exploration of Merchants Café by visiting the main dining area and underground bar. Tucked away under the sidewalk that was once lit by the purple glass of the old city skylights, sits a bar perfect for that time.

The land upon which the building rests was once owned by Doc Maynard, who donated a large portion of land to Henry Yesler. Maynard did this to entice Yesler to build his famed steam-powered sawmill in Seattle. In 1857, Yesler then sold a small portion of this land to Charles Terry, famous for opening the first store on Alki Point in 1851. By 1864, a two-story clapboard structure settled on this site, with a shop on the first floor and a photographer’s studio on the second floor. Here, Seattle’s first resident professional photographer, E.M. Sammis photographed the only known pictures of Doc Maynard and Chief Seattle. This two-story structure was destroyed by the Great Seattle Fire in 1889. 

John Hall Sanderson, then owner of the burnt remains, developed plans for building a brick terra cotta structure, which remains to this day. Intentions for this building were to house a wine and liquor shop on the ground floor with offices on the upper floors. This building eventually became Merchants Café, but was then known as the Sanderson Block. 

Portrait of the Oriental Dancing Girl

By 1892, the building had passed onto Charles Osner, who changed the building’s name to Merchants Exchange Saloon. At this time, the building was operating as a restaurant, hotel, saloon, and a card room. Osner also offered other services for those young men taking a break from the hardships of lumbering in the greatly wooded northwest. Prostitution was a very popular and lucrative past time for a male-dominate city, and Osner took advantage of this by offering a brothel on the third floor. Here men would find pictures of the lovely ladies aligning the saloon walls. If any gentleman requested their services, he would point at one of these pictures and then be directed to her upstairs room. See photo: Behind me is a portrait of one such lady who worked in the brothel, titled Oriental Dancing Girl, still hangs in the Merchants Cafe.

In 1898, a year after the gold rush madness, Franz Xavier Schreiner purchased the Saloon. More popularly known as FX, Schreiner gained a small fortune in the Klondike as a supply salesman. FX then added a “Sunday Bank” in the basement where he exchanged cash for miners’ gold dust fresh from the Yukon. Then, he cashed in on the dust with Monday’s bank deposit, collecting as much as $100,000 worth. He continued this until 1910. In fact, the old safe that protected this gold still remains on the property upstairs behind the bar. Apparently, the ghost who still guards this safe does not like anything being put above it. The previous owner warned that if anything was placed there, it would end up broken. Darcy, the current owner decided to put in a wine rack.  One morning her bartender arrived to find every bottle of wine smashed on the floor.  The wine rack was still in place and nothing else in the entire place had been touched. Someone or something took each bottle and threw it in a pile by the front door. Photos of the mess are at the bar and also, Steve the detective on Dead Files will hear the story first-hand from the Merchants staff. 

By 1916, stricter laws and Prohibition (also known as the dry laws that prevented the selling of alcohol in the state of Washington) caused many bars, taverns and saloons to lock up shop. Owners, who were smart enough, switched over their businesses to restaurants and cafes. FX continued his success by secretly paying off local police. By doing so, he continued to offer bootlegged alcohol and illegal gambling in the basement, as well as the pleasure services of a “high class” brothel in the upstairs hotel.

In 1922, it seemed FX was ready for change, and so he sold his café to his son Carl and his nephew John Schreiner for $10 each. He then moved to Los Angeles for the weather and real estate opportunities. By 1926, the sale was completed by including the rest of the building to John who ran the business from 1923 to 1965.

During this time, Merchants also operated as a cigar shop, and the “Havana Cigars . . . Lovera” in stained glass over the entrance is a reminder of that. This sign remains to this day and can be seen above in the most recent photo taken on January 3, 2013. The basement saw service over the years as a German restaurant (which can still be identified by the brass sign at the top of the downstairs entrance), a Spanish restaurant, a card room and a speakeasy. 

During the Great Depression, patrons were offered free food, such as finger sandwiches and hardboiled eggs, with their nickel beers. With the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the sign was changed to read, “Merchants Café – Beer and Restaurant.” The building remained in the Schreiner family until the 1970s. Merchants Café was always famed as the saloon on skid row. By this time, the phrase had double meaning as Pioneer Square was thought of as the slums.  The property passed through many hands and changed as the surrounding atmosphere grew to the historic district that it is today. Now in the hands of Darcy, the new owner has taken much pride in restoring the property and business to its natural beauty. Along with obtaining this historic building, she has inherited its ghosts.

"oriental dancing girl" by Nathaldi Siehel.

On the far back wall hangs the haunted painting known as “oriental dancing girl” by Nathaldi Siehel. This painting strangely revealed its ghostly past to the new owners while being photographed.

Doll given by patron for the ghost girl

Another tale that is told among the employees is that of a little girl and boy that haunt the basement of Merchants. A fire in 1938 struck Merchants and took these young lives. Here, many encounter sights of small shadowy figures lurking about and play games on the staff. Also, an unfamiliar man appeared one day with a doll. He gave it to the owner and asked for it to be kept for the 'ghost girl' so she'd have something to play with. The doll remained at the bar and over time showed all the signs of actually being used i.e. hair messy, dirt on clothing, ribbons undone and moved position. Sadly, one day the doll simply disappeared or became 'lost.'  Panicked, the bar offered a reward, but the doll never returned. Darcy, searched the internet for the exact same doll and when found, ordered a replacement. That doll now sits in the bar for the ghost girl. 

Merchants Café has survived many obstacles like the Gold Rush, Prohibition, the Great Depression, a fire, and even the changing of ownership throughout her 121 years. Today, Merchants Café’s brochures heighten the aura of naughtiness-past by proclaiming, “Only a mere shell of its former decadence, The Merchants now welcomes women and children.”  All are welcome, including the ghosts. 

Seattle, 1907



Photographer Webster & Steve




espatch Transportation Co.

New York Central Lines. 

The Merchants Cafe. 109 Yesler Way. 1930's

* Older photographs and historical information obtained from http://www.619western.com/historymerchants.html

Recent photos and personal accounts belong to Charlie Courtland - Obtained January 3, 2013 during a visit to Merchants Cafe.

Merchants Cafe
Yesler, Pioneer Square, Seattle WA

January 3, 2013

Battling the Dreaded Blank, White Screen

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Charlie Courtland - Summer Splash Guest Post - 

Help! My Inner Genius Took A Sabbatical!

Help! My Inner Genius Took A Sabbatical!

by Charlie Courtland

See entire article by clicking HERE

On the Paranormal Prowl in Old Town San Diego

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 A Night Stroll With the Dead?

El Campo Santo Cemetery

El Campo Santo Cemetery, a Roman Catholic resting place established in 1849, is located at the end of Old Town, San Diego. One of the most well-known persons buried here is Yankee Jim Robinson who hanged from the gallows that were once located on the spot where the Whaley residence stands today. Although hundreds of people were buried in the cemetery, not all the headstones remain. However, watch your step when exploring because metal markers stick out from the ground where bodies were located. Also, take a closer look along the sidewalk and street in front of the cemetery. In 1889 a streetcar line was built and ran directly through the cemetery. Later in 1942, the road was paved. Unfortunately and probably due to the expense, the bodies were not removed. Instead, the gravestones were discarded and the road was constructed directly over the decaying corpses. The city of San Diego has done their best by locating as many bodies as possible and has placed small markers that simply read, "grave site."  As you walk along the sidewalk and road you will see several (approx. 43) of these unnamed grave markers. Thanks to ground penetrating radar, some information was determined and remembrance plaques are posted to honor those previous disturbed. To see list click on grave site markers

Charlie Courtland, El Campo Santo Cemetery, Old Town San Diego

I visited the cemetery three times during my stay, all in the evening or late at night. For me, nothing extraordinary occurred during this time, but the history and desecration of the graves was interesting. Given that the city has made an attempt to preserve what it can and perhaps, in good faith made efforts to right a terrible wrong, they may have amended ties with some of the unsettled ancestors in this immediate area.

Is that a fire on the roof?
There wasn't that night, at least not one we could see!  

The photo above was taken at approximately 10 pm at night with my camera. As you can see, there is a building behind the graveyard area that has lights on, however, it's the blazing 'fire' on the roof that grabbed my attention during our review of photos. Strangely, this appears only in these few photos which were taken consecutively on this evening. It appears the roof is blazing, but I can testify that this was not seen with the naked eye. I was photographing the crosses and white fencing, having no idea that this would appear on the picture. What is the fire-like light on the roof? I'm not certain, but I do know that much of Old Town (especially, the roofs) caught fire. Many buildings burned and several were ruined or re-constructed. 


So, what did capture my attention? It was the hills looming behind El Campo Santo that turned my head. I believe the land on the hillside will tell an interesting story to those who can and/or are willing to listen. I'd proceed with caution though, I don't think all who remain are pleased with what has been done to the area. This is the ground where the old monastery was built and includes the burial sites for the Indians. Most of this land is now covered by housing developments and has been further disturbed by mudslides. I got the sense that unhappy spirits in that general area don't stay put. They wander in and out and often come down the hillside near the area around the El Campo Santo Cemetery.  I would not be surprised if various paranormal sitings, experiences and disturbances have been reported by multiple hillside home owners. There is a strong presence in that region and a definite feeling of being watched will occur at any time, day or night. I advise to be extra respectful of this area and before exploring further, take the time to learn some background history about the monastery and the Indians that previously inhabited the land.

***

Cosmopolitan Hotel

Footsteps echo along the porch

Between 1827 and 1829 Juan Lorenzo Bandini constructed and designed this residence for his family. Bandini was known as being a bit of an entertainer who loved to host parties.  An invitation to the Bandini's would certainly provide visitors with a lively night of drink, games and dancing. Many parties were still going on well after the sun came up! After the death of Bandini, the house was taken over by the stage manager, Albert Seeley. With some remodeling and additions, Seeley turned the home into The Cosmopolitan Hotel.  In the spirit of Bandini, Seeley made sure the place provided comfort, style, and entertainment for the guests. In 1888, Seeley sold the hotel. It was then turned into a cannery and eventually left to ruin. Luckily, a descent of Bandini saved the property and restored The Cosmopolitan Hotel.  

This is the room I found most fascinating. Unfortunately, it is blocked off so all you can do is lean through the door and poke your head around. At the time of my visit, the hotel and restaurant were in full operating mode and impossible to thoroughly investigate. However, the archway around the door and the feeling in this particular room were much different than the rest of the hotel. What I sensed during the dining hours was a feeling of joy, happiness and relaxation. In the distance, it was if I could hear the shuffling of cards, old time music playing from an earlier era, laughter and lively conversations. It came in whispers, but was a positive atmosphere, which gave off a light feeling. I would have loved to spend some quiet time in Bandini's card room and perhaps, next visit stay in one of the 10 rooms located upstairs.

***

Robinson-Rose

This is not the actual house built by Judge James W. Robinson, but rather a replica. The original house was sold to Louis Rose in 1857 and shortly thereafter, the roof caught fire. The place was left in ruins and then eventually torn down. Several other structures were built over the years on the site.  An excavation was preformed in 1987, but nothing was discovered.  The replica was built in the now historical state park of Old Town.  No one is certain who haunts this structure, and it could be any number of previous residents. Reports include:

• Cloud-like vapor and apparitions who look like people dressed in 18th century clothing. 
• A Clear apparition of a man dressed in 18th century attire has been seen in the upstairs rooms when the place is closed.
• Disturbances with electrical such as lights and operating of the elevator.
• Heavy, loud footsteps upstairs
• Women's hair being tugged and/or played with.

That's me getting drawn back to the area, just left of this
 restaurant is the Robinson-Rose house 

As I mentioned in an earlier post, this was not a place I planned to visit but during my walk through of the area, on two separate nights in Old Town, I was inexplicably drawn to this house. There was such a pull, that I got agitated that I couldn't go in after hours. The upstairs held a particular interest and if the doors were unlocked, it would have been the first place I'd have began my investigation. Also, both times while pacing in front of the house a notable cold spot was detected.  On a 70 degree night, this icy chill caused goosebumps and shivers. This being the quiet end of Old Town in the evening hours, it was a little easier to read the grounds.  Without entering, I'd venture to say this place has paranormal activity.  Is it Judge Robinson, Sarah or perhaps a member of the Rose family?  That I can not say, but definitely someone or something is lingering in the upstairs area of this visitor information center.