Ghosts of the Ott Hotel in Liberty, TX – Legends of America
Tucked away in the heart of Liberty, Texas, stands the historic Ott Hotel, a building steeped in history and intrigue. More than just a designated Texas historical site, the Ott Hotel is shrouded in mystery, whispered to be a haven for restless spirits. Opened in 1928, this iconic landmark has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, its walls echoing with tales of prosperity, tragedy, and the inexplicable.
A Glimpse into the Past
The story of the Ott Hotel begins with the discovery of vast oil fields in the Liberty area during the roaring 1920s. This newfound wealth triggered a population boom, transforming the once-sleepy town into a bustling hub of commerce and activity. Amidst this flurry of development, John and Sallie Ott envisioned a grand hotel to cater to the growing influx of travelers arriving via the Texas & New Orleans Railroad.
Initially christened the Drummer Hotel, a nod to the era’s traveling salesmen, the Ott Hotel quickly became a prominent fixture in Liberty’s landscape. Its strategic location adjacent to the railway tracks made it an ideal stopover for weary travelers seeking respite and comfort.
The original design of the hotel boasted 50 rooms, thoughtfully arranged in an L-shaped configuration. Community baths were strategically placed in the middle of the long hallways, providing convenient amenities for guests. As the hotel’s popularity grew, the dining room and parlor space were cleverly converted into additional rooms, further expanding its capacity.
A large, eye-catching sign adorned the exterior of the two-story brick building, beckoning travelers from the passing trains. Upon checking in, guests were greeted by a welcoming four-bay front porch, where they could relax and observe the vibrant street life unfolding before them.
A Family Legacy
For decades, the Ott family diligently managed and operated the craftsman-style hotel, ensuring its continued success and preserving its unique charm. Their unwavering dedication lasted until 2002 when Kelly and Susan McCain acquired the property, ushering in a new chapter in the hotel’s storied history.
The McCains embarked on an ambitious restoration project, meticulously reviving the hotel to its original 1928 glory. Their efforts paid homage to the building’s architectural heritage, preserving its 10-foot ceilings, wooden floors, and a treasure trove of original furnishings.
Stepping into the Ott Hotel is like stepping back in time. The second-story hallway still features the original bath facilities, one for men and one for women, evoking a sense of nostalgia. The front lobby proudly displays its original front counter, hotel registers, and an impressive collection of historical artifacts, including captivating photographs that offer a glimpse into the hotel’s past.
While the McCains humbly describe their hotel as "not fancy," they take pride in offering affordable, clean, and functional accommodations. However, what truly sets the Ott Hotel apart is its reputation as a haunted establishment, a place where the veil between worlds seems to thin.
Whispers from the Other Side
Since the restoration project began, numerous inexplicable incidents have been reported within the walls of the Ott Hotel. Doors have been known to slam shut on their own, phantom footsteps echo through the hallways, and loud knocking reverberates from unknown sources.
Guests and staff alike have recounted eerie experiences, often hearing a man and woman engaged in a heated argument in an otherwise empty room. Yet, when the staff cautiously opens the door to investigate, the spectral couple falls silent, leaving behind an unsettling sense of unease.
Sightings of spectral figures have become commonplace, adding to the hotel’s mystique. Some have reported seeing a woman clad in a white nightgown, while others have encountered a tall, imposing figure wearing a black hat and coat. A man dressed in blue, a well-dressed red-headed woman, and shadowy figures lurking throughout the hotel have also been described. One particularly unnerving account involved a guest who claimed to see a spectral man standing at the foot of her bed every night during her stay.
The Ott Hotel continues to be a hotbed of paranormal activity, with lights flickering on and off without explanation, doors opening and closing seemingly on their own, strange and unexplained smells wafting through the air, and floating grey mists materializing in various locations. Security cameras have captured doors opening and closing with no visible hands, and the sounds of people arguing when no one is present. On occasion, the chilling sound of a gunshot has been heard within the hotel’s walls.
Even more intriguing are the odd incidents captured on guest cameras. One video purportedly shows the figure of a well-dressed lady, while another captures moving orbs of light dancing through the air.
Unraveling the Mysteries
Who are these unseen guests that linger within the Ott Hotel? One popular theory suggests that two of the restless spirits belong to a couple named Anna and Joshua. As the story goes, in the fall of 1930, Anna was allegedly having an affair at the Ott Hotel. Her husband, Joshua, upon hearing of her infidelity, set out to confront her.
Joshua, described as a tall, slender man wearing a black cowboy hat, duster coat, and black boots, relentlessly knocked on doors until he found Anna. When she opened the door, dressed in a white nightgown, a fierce argument erupted between them. Suddenly, a gunshot rang out, and when the smoke cleared, both Anna and Joshua lay dead on the floor. To this day, the circumstances surrounding their deaths remain shrouded in mystery, with conflicting accounts of who fired the fatal shot.
As for the other spirits that seem to haunt the hotel, their identities remain unknown. Legend has it that the infamous Bonnie and Clyde once stayed at the Ott Hotel on their way to Louisiana. Could one of these notorious bandits still be lurking about, forever bound to the hotel’s walls?
A Paranormal Hotspot
The Ott Hotel’s reputation as a paranormal hotspot has attracted the attention of numerous paranormal investigation groups. At least one such group has conducted thorough examinations of the hotel, reportedly uncovering several anomalies that defy explanation.
The Ott Hotel holds the distinction of being the last operating train hotel in Texas, a testament to its historical significance. In recognition of its cultural value, the Ott Hotel was designated a Texas Historic Landmark in 2006, solidifying its place in the state’s rich heritage.
Visiting the Haunted Ott Hotel
For those intrigued by the paranormal and eager to experience the Ott Hotel’s eerie ambiance firsthand, tours are available by reservation only. Contact the hotel to arrange a visit and prepare to be captivated by the stories and mysteries that surround this historic landmark.
Contact Information
Historic Ott Hotel
305 Travis
Liberty, Texas
936-336-3832
The Ott Hotel stands as a captivating blend of history, mystery, and the unexplained. Whether you’re a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique and unforgettable experience, the Ott Hotel in Liberty, Texas, is sure to leave a lasting impression.