Mercer
House, Savannah, Georgia
Savannah
has always been a site of mystery and the supernatural, but she gained
considerable attention with the movie "Midnight In the Garden of Good and
Evil." This story was based upon the true story of Jim Mercer.
Jim bought the house of rich history in the 1980's and moved in after an
extensive renovation. The house was originally built by General Hugh
Mercer during the Civil War. Johnny Mercer, the famous songwriter,
grew up in the house, and Jackie Onassis once tried to buy it for over
2 million dollars.
Jim
Mercer was most famously known for his elite Christmas parties. Guests
dressed in their finest, the best food was served, and there was always
a soft candlelight glow. The parties came to an end, however, when
Jim was arrested for killing his hired help, Danny Hansford. He was
tried for the crime that occured in this beautiful mansion three times,
and was finally acquitted. In December of 1989, Jim held his last
Christmas party. Within a month, he died suddenly with what appeared
to be a heart attack.
Since
his death, many people have reported seeing strange phenomena in the house
around Christmas. A visiting couple claims to have seen the glowing
lights from the window, and upon further inspection, saw guests dressed
in their finest being served by butlers in crisp, white jackets.
The problem with the party is that there was none. No one was occupying
the house. Many disclaim the story, but the truth lies in the heart
of every native Savannah resident!
For more information,
look at the following resource:
Georgia Ghosts,
by Nancy Roberts
Back To
Home