Hotel Del Coronado came into being in 1888 as the brainchild of 2 retired entrepreneurs after the advent of rail transportation in Southern California. Land was at a premium, so they started their Coronado Beach Company that took over proprietorship of the hotel after just 1 year of construction that cost a mere $1 million. The natural beauty of the surrounding area fully inspired them to open a luxury resort there. It even became the largest such beachfront property in the world at that time. Well-known for using lighting that Thomas Edison himself regulated, the hotel was a true pioneer, in terms of electricity of the generation. However, in more modern times, it has become infamous for its resident ghost that stayed there in 1892. Unlike most haunted locations, this one never had a tragic backstory to explain away everything. This particular legend is based on 24-year-old Kate Morgan, who checked into room 3312 (now room 3327) while awaiting a gentleman companion who would end up standing her up. Obviously despondent after being jilted for unknown reasons, the young lady’s dead body was discovered on an exterior staircase that led straight to the adjacent beach. Using an alias upon check-in, Kate decided to end it all and was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Many specific details about what exactly took place are still up for debate, but she was clearly distraught and, allegedly, continues to stick around today. Obviously, her room is highly requested by those interested in the legend. Those who stay there often report the television turning on and off of its own accord. Mysterious drafts and temperature changes are common, and footsteps are heard. Items in the room, including personal belongings move on their own. Even Kate’s initials are seen drawn on the bathroom’s mirrors while steamed, and her spirit is often seen roaming the halls and the beachfront area. By all outward appearances, the hotel clearly resembles the Disney Grand Floridian in Orlando, but vibes are not always magical.
Haunted Del Coronado
