Carson City’s historic streets are filled with stories, and not all of them stayed politely in the past.
Three of Carson City’s best-known haunted places are the Nevada Governor’s Mansion, the Ferris Mansion and the historic Carson City Mint, now home to the Nevada State Museum. Each location combines documented Nevada history with tales of history of unexplained footsteps, mysterious figures and spirits that may still be keeping an eye on the Silver State’s capital.
Grab a warm blanket, charge your flashlight and settle in for three Carson City ghost stories worthy of a fall road trip.
A note for curious ghost hunters: The historical details below are documented, but the paranormal encounters are part of Carson City folklore. Whether you believe in ghosts or simply love a good story, these locations offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.
Nevada State Governor’s Mansion
Is the Nevada Governor’s Mansion haunted?
According to local lore, the Nevada Governor’s Mansion may be home to more than Nevada’s first family.
In 1907, Mrs. T.B. Rickey, who lived nearby, sold a large land parcel to the government for only $10 and George A. Ferris, a Reno architect, was hired to design the mansion for $22,700. By July 1909, you could spot the elegant two-story mansion as you drove along Mountain Street in Carson City.
The Classical Revival mansion at 606 Mountain Street has served as the official residence of Nevada’s governors for more than a century. Acting Governor Denver Dickerson and his wife, Una, became its first residents in July 1909. Two months later, their daughter June was born inside the mansion, making her the only child known to have been born there. And that could be why she’s still roaming around in the halls.
For many years, staff and overnight guests have come across the same apparition. They’ve seen a woman wearing a long white dress, who is thought to be First Lady Una Dickerson, and her daughter June, wandering around the second floor. But they’re not roaming the halls on their own as many have also felt a male presence. He’s often heard going up the staircase to the second floor and playing around opening the doors in the parlor.
While it may sound spooky, there’s no need to worry. These three live-in guests don’t mind having roommates. They’ve always shared their home with the current governor and staff.
Can you visit the Nevada Governor’s Mansion?
The Governor’s Mansion remains an active state residence, so public access and tour opportunities may be limited. Visitors can view the historic exterior from Mountain Street and explore nearby landmarks along Carson City’s historic west side and learn more by walking the Kit Carson Trail walking and audio tour.
The Ferris Mansion
What is the ghost story behind the Ferris Mansion?
The Ferris Mansion, historically known as the is connected to one of Carson City’s most famous former residents: George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., inventor of the original Ferris wheel.
The house was built around 1863 and was owned by the Ferris family from 1868 to 1890. George Ferris Jr. spent part of his childhood there before eventually designing the enormous revolving wheel unveiled at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, it’s also a stop on the Kit Carson Trail.
Its paranormal reputation centers on the legend of a mysterious bride.
No one likes being followed, especially when it seems like no one is behind you. Built in 1863, the Ferris Mansion is well known because of two things; it was the childhood home of the man who invented the Ferris Wheel and also because of its paranormal activity that has persisted well after his passing.
Ferris lived in the mansion with his wife and two children, Mary and George, Jr. As far as Nevadans know, the paranormal activity began the day that Mary was getting married.
Mary couldn’t think of a better place to wed than her grand home. And while the wedding was magical, it wasn’t quite the magic they were expecting. An unknown woman who was spotted in a wedding dress in the backyard by several guests. But when they asked George Sr. about the second bride, he assured them that there was only one.
Soon after, the Ferris family found that prior to Mary’s wedding, there had only been one wedding. Unfortunately, this bride didn’t have the fairytale wedding she hoped for as she was left standing at the altar by her groom-to-be. Apparently, she’s still waiting.
The Carson City Mint
Is the historic Carson City Mint haunted?
Built in 1863 from sandstone blocks that were cut-to-size in the state prison, the Nevada State Mint building is now home to the Nevada State Museum. The project was supervised by the Father of Carson City, Abe Curry, and it led to producing $49 million in gold and silver coins throughout the last 13 years. The former Carson City Mint is one of the city’s most important historic landmarks and, according to local stories, one of its most paranormally active.
Between 1870 and 1893, the mint produced approximately $49 million in gold and silver coins. Many carried the now-famous “CC” mint mark. The building later became the Nevada State Museum, where visitors can explore Nevada history and see the original Coin Press No. 1.
While it doesn’t produce coins for circulation anymore (and no, a coin shortage is not the type of spooky we’re talking about), it’s known for something more gruesome.
Abe Curry doesn’t haunt the building alone, the spirit of Osborne Parker also lives within the Carson City Mint’s walls. Parker was accidentally crushed to death when equipment fell on him in the basement. Since then, museum staff have heard unexplained footsteps. Parker and Curry don’t like to walk around too much though. They sometimes use the elevator or at least, that’s what we think since the elevator is known to operate all by itself.
While it may sound eerie, many consider Curry and Parker the museum’s friendly guardians. Apparently, retirement is difficult when you remain deeply invested in your workplace.
Need to experience some in-person goosebumps as you roam Carson City’s haunted buildings? Don’t let us have all the fun. Take a roadtrip to Carson City any season. These friendly spirits are here year-round.
Frequently asked questions about haunted Carson City
What are the most famous haunted places in Carson City?
The Nevada Governor’s Mansion, Ferris Mansion and historic Carson City Mint are among Carson City’s best-known locations associated with local ghost stories. You can learn more on Carson City Ghost Walk Tours.
Can visitors go inside these haunted buildings?
The Nevada State Museum is open to visitors during its posted operating hours. Access to the Governor’s Mansion varies, and the Ferris Mansion is a historic residence. You can go inside some of our favorite haunted home and landmarks on the special day time Carson City Ghost Walk Tour the second to last Saturday in October.
Are Carson City’s ghost stories true?
The buildings and much of their history are real and documented. Reports of ghosts, apparitions and unexplained activity are local legends and personal accounts that have not been independently verified.
When is the best time to experience haunted Carson City?
October is especially popular because of fall weather, Nevada Day celebrations and seasonal ghost tours. Historic attractions and self-guided sightseeing are available throughout much of the year.
Where can I find Carson City ghost tours and Halloween events?
Visit Carson City’s online event calendar for current ghost walks, attractions, museum programs and other seasonal events.