It was 1854 when Sophia and Fernando Kelton built their spacious, two-story brick Victorian Greek Revival home. The residence provided enough room to raise their four sons and two daughters. Today, the home has been transformed into a museum that has a reputation for being haunted with ghosts. In this article, you will learn background regarding the Columbus, Ohio site of paranormal activity.
Sophia and Fernando Kelton raised six children in their home , although a son Charles died in early childhood. Three generations would call the Kelton place their home until the Columbus Foundation decided that it was time to restore it to a house museum after the last relatives moved on from the residence. They wished to offer public tours and use the space to host weddings, receptions and events.
At the time, the exterior of the home was still impressive and offered a brick outside with a decorative wrought-iron balcony. Victorian-style décor was found inside of the home , delivering a peek back into the 1900s.
In the early days of the home, Sophia was a well organized, money-saving homemaker, who enjoyed playing hostess to family gatherings. She was in charge of the family books and also ran the household, including managing the servants. When guests paid a visit to the home, she was the one who entertained the visitors. Sophia was also good at staying ahead of her children. For example, when her sons reached their teenage years and felt tempted to drink and gamble at parties outside of the home, Sophia brought a billiards table into one of the front parlors, which successfully kept the boys closer to home and out of trouble.
The oldest daughter of the Keltons had thoughts of literary success, but her social standing did not allow her to pursue her dreams. She kept a detailed scrapbook of her thoughts, favorite poems, and other literary knick-knacks.
Faith and strong beliefs governed the Kelton family. They also had a reputation for being kind and generous. For example, Sophia and Fernando were actively involved in the anti-slave society. Their barn and cistern often became a haven for slaves on the run. It is also assumed that they partook in the underground railroad. One time, Sophia found a sick slave girl in the bushes, who was only 10 years old. She nursed the child back to health, but also gave her a home for 10 years. When the girl became a young woman, she married the Kelton’s cabinet maker in the front parlor.
The Keltons surely loved their home, as it is said that the ghosts of some family members still haunt the premises. If you are interested in learning more about the house or paying a visit, the Kelton House Museum & Garden is located on 586 East Town Street in Columbus, Ohio.