Mercer Williams House
The Mercer Williams House is a historic mansion located in Savannah, Georgia, United States. Built in the Italianate style in 1860 by General Hugh W. Mercer, great-grandfather of songwriter Johnny Mercer, the house has a rich history and is known for its architectural beauty.
The mansion gained further fame when it was purchased by Jim Williams, a prominent Savannah antiques dealer and preservationist, in 1969. Williams meticulously restored the home to its former glory and filled it with an impressive collection of art and antiques.
However, the Mercer Williams House is perhaps best known for the mysterious death of Danny Hansford, a young man who lived with Jim Williams at the mansion. The events surrounding Hansford's death were chronicled in John Berendt's bestselling book "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," which brought national attention to both the house and its owner.
Today, the Mercer Williams House is open to visitors as a museum showcasing its stunning architecture and fascinating history. Guided tours offer insight into the lives of those who once called this grand estate home, making it a must-see destination for anyone interested in Savannah's rich cultural heritage.
Haunted Mansions
The Mercer Williams House in Savannah, United States, is a historic mansion that has gained notoriety for its alleged haunted reputation. The house was built in the 1860s for General Hugh W. Mercer, great-grandfather of Johnny Mercer, the famous songwriter. The mansion changed hands several times over the years before being purchased by Jim Williams in 1969.
Jim Williams was a prominent Savannah antiques dealer and preservationist who restored the mansion to its former glory. However, tragedy struck in 1981 when Williams shot and killed his assistant Danny Hansford in what some believe was a fit of rage. Williams was tried four times for murder before being acquitted in 1989.
Following these events, rumors began to circulate about paranormal activity within the Mercer Williams House. Visitors reported hearing strange noises, seeing apparitions, and feeling an eerie presence throughout the mansion. Some believe that Hansford's spirit still lingers in the house, seeking justice for his untimely death.
Despite its haunted reputation, the Mercer Williams House continues to attract tourists and ghost enthusiasts from around the world. The mansion has been featured in books and movies, most notably John Berendt's bestselling novel "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," which chronicles the events surrounding Jim Williams' trial.
While there is no concrete evidence to support claims of hauntings at the Mercer Williams House, its dark history and mysterious atmosphere have solidified its place as one of Savannah's most infamous haunted mansions
