New York Ghosts

37. The Pirate's Den

New York, NY

Book Now

Located between Christopher Street and Waverly Place sits 12 Gay Street, the home to a lost soul from the past. The seemingly quiet and simple structure was built in 1827 and has quite the history. Frank Paris, the designer of Howdy Doody, lived here as did showgirl, Betty Compton, the mistress of Mayor James J. Walker who served in New York from January 1926 to September 1932. It was also the site of a speakeasy in the 1920s called the Pirate's Den. Some believe the location is haunted by Mayor Walker, Betty Compton, and a mysterious ghost wearing a top hat and tails. A neighbor compared the home to the famous horror movie "The Shining". Strange noises have been reported, including heavy footsteps, and many claim they've seen faces in the windows when no one was there. A few have stated these ghostly figures smile and wave at those passing by. There are those who are so convinced the property is haunted that they've captured what they believe are ghostly apparitions on film. The next time you pass by 12 Gay Street, take a glance up at the windows. You may be one of the few who have gotten a glance at the former Mayor and his mistress.