The Haunt of San Francisco’s Haskell House
If you’re wandering through Fort Mason in San Francisco, it’s easy to get caught up in the beautiful coastal views and the thriving arts community. Yet, nestled among the vibrant scenery, there stands a building cloaked in a rich tapestry of history and mystery—the Haskell House. For decades, whispers of the supernatural have drawn the curious and the brave to this storied landmark.
Honorable David C. Broderick Courtesy of Library of Congress Public Domain
The Historic Beginnings
Constructed in 1856, the Haskell House was originally a residence for military officers stationed at the Presidio. This grand, two-story building showcases classic Victorian architecture, with its intricate wooden detailing and stately presence. It’s not just the aesthetic that draws attention, but rather the notable figures and tragic events that have left an indelible mark on its legacy.
The Broderick-Terry Duel
The most infamous chapter in the Haskell House’s history involves Senator David Broderick, a staunch opponent of slavery and a controversial figure in California politics. His rivalry with Judge David Terry came to a head in 1859 in the form of a duel—an event now immortalized in both history books and the spectral lore of the house. Broderick was shot and, grievously injured, was brought to the Haskell House where he later died from his wounds. This marked the beginning of the house’s reputation for harboring restless spirits.
Broderick/Terry Duel - Public Domain
Ghostly Whispers and Mysterious Happenings
Over the years, residents and visitors alike have reported experiencing various paranormal activities within the walls of the Haskell House. Footsteps echoing in empty hallways, doors opening and closing of their own accord, and a pervasive chill that seems to emanate from the very walls are just a few of the eerie occurrences documented. Some have even claimed to see the ghostly figure of Broderick himself, reliving his final days within the house.
Modern-Day Mystique
Today, the Haskell House stands as part of the larger Fort Mason Historic District, a peaceful juxtaposition to its storied past. The house continues to attract those with an interest in the paranormal, including ghost hunters and curious visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the supernatural. While some leave with nothing more than an interesting story, others depart convinced that they’ve encountered something otherworldly.
In many ways, the Haskell House symbolizes the broader narrative of San Francisco itself—a place where history, culture, and the enigmatic coexist. For those willing to venture into the heart of its haunted past, the Haskell House offers a compelling, albeit spooky, reminder that the past is never truly gone—it lingers, waiting for those who dare to seek it out.
Next time you’re exploring the historical nooks and crannies of San Francisco, don’t forget to take a moment and listen to the stories that the Haskell House has to tell. They just might send a shiver down your spine.