Woodburn — Delaware Governor’s Residence
Dover, Delaware, United States
Historic house · established
The Story
The official Delaware governor’s residence has a surprisingly friendly resident ghost: a gentleman in old-fashioned dress who may enjoy a glass of wine.
The Hauntings
The state itself tells an early account in which visiting preacher Lorenzo Dow reportedly met a man on Woodburn’s stairs, then learned the man was supposed to be the house’s deceased builder, Charles Hillyard III. Later residents have told similar stories. The governor’s household also remembers playful attempts to leave wine for the specter. This is an unusually well-preserved example of a ghost story carried by the property’s own successive occupants, not a theatrical fright-night invention.
The History
Woodburn was built around 1798 and became Delaware’s official governor’s residence in 1965.
A sense of place.
Visitor Experiences
Have you experienced something here?
This future chapter will bring together stories from the PHASM community. An unexpected encounter, a lingering feeling, or a quiet visit—your experience will be welcome.
Submissions are not open yet.
Sources & further reading.
- Delaware Governor’s Office — State of Delaware: Visiting Woodburn (history)
- Delaware Governor’s Office — State of Delaware: Woodburn residence history (history)
- Delaware Governor’s Office — State of Delaware: The Woodburn Ghost (reports)
- Delaware Governor’s Office — State of Delaware: Visiting Woodburn (visiting)
Plan Your Visit
The State of Delaware says Woodburn tours are currently unavailable, although it may announce special public events. It remains an occupied official residence. Do not approach the house for paranormal investigation or contact its residents.