Mercer-Williams House

The Mercer-Williams House, located in Savannah, Georgia, is a historic mansion that has gained notoriety due to its association with the murder of Jim Williams' assistant, Danny Hansford. The house was built in the early 1860s for General Hugh W. Mercer, great-grandfather of songwriter Johnny Mercer.
The mansion is known for its stunning architecture and intricate design details, including ornate ironwork and Italian marble mantels. The interior features grand rooms with high ceilings and elaborate moldings, as well as beautiful stained glass windows.
In addition to its architectural significance, the Mercer-Williams House has also become famous for the events surrounding the murder of Danny Hansford in 1981. Jim Williams, a prominent Savannah antiques dealer and preservationist who owned the house at the time, was accused of shooting Hansford in a fit of rage. Williams stood trial four times for the murder before being acquitted in 1989.
Today, the Mercer-Williams House is open to visitors as a museum showcasing period furnishings and decorative arts. It offers guided tours that provide insight into both the history of the house and its infamous past. Despite its dark history, the mansion remains a popular tourist attraction in Savannah and continues to intrigue visitors with its blend of beauty and mystery.
Haunted Mansions
The Mercer-Williams House in Savannah, United States, is a historic mansion that has gained notoriety for its alleged hauntings. The house was built in the 1860s by General Hugh W. Mercer, great-grandfather of songwriter Johnny Mercer. In the 1960s, the house was purchased and restored by Jim Williams, a prominent Savannah preservationist.
Williams used the mansion as his private residence and also hosted lavish parties and events there. However, tragedy struck in 1981 when Williams was accused of murdering his assistant, Danny Hansford, in one of the mansion's rooms. Williams was tried four times for the murder before being acquitted.
Following Williams' death in 1990, rumors began to circulate about paranormal activity at the Mercer-Williams House. Visitors reported hearing strange noises, seeing apparitions, and feeling an eerie presence throughout the mansion. These reports led to the house being featured in books and movies about haunted locations.
Today, the Mercer-Williams House is open to visitors who are interested in learning more about its history and alleged hauntings. Tours of the mansion provide insight into its past residents and offer a glimpse into the mysterious world of ghostly encounters that have been reported within its walls.