The Franklin Castle

Richardson in the Queen Anne style, the four-story stone mansion originally boasted more than 20 rooms and 80 windows, reflecting the prestige of Franklin Boulevard, once one of Cleveland’s most upscale residential avenues.

In 1982, the property was added to the National Register of Historic Places, ensuring its preservation as an important part of Ohio’s architectural heritage.

Tragedy, Rumors & Dark Legends

What truly makes Franklin Castle famous is not just its design, but the stories that surround it.

From the moment the Tiedemann family moved in, tragedy seemed to follow: several family members, including children and Hannes’s mother, died within a short period in the home — events that later fueled rumors of a curse.

Local lore paints an eerie picture:

• Secret passageways said to have been hidden for bootlegging during Prohibition — though only a small servant stairway has ever been verified.

• Tales of ghostly figures, including a woman in black (rumored to be Tiedemann’s wife) and a pale girl in white wandering the halls.

• Reports of crying babies, unexplained cold spots, disembodied voices, and moving objects.

• A discovery in the 1970s of bones hidden in a closet, believed by some to fuel the haunted reputation — though it’s disputed whether this was genuine or staged for publicity.
  
  

Across decades, visitors and paranormal investigators alike have claimed strange experiences inside the mansion — from phantom footsteps to atmospheric chills that defy explanation.

A Landmark Through the Ages

After the Tiedemann family sold the house in 1896, Franklin Castle wore many hats. It served as a meeting place for German cultural organizations, apartments, doctors’ offices, and even a location for social clubs.

Ownership continued to change frequently, and each new steward added to the lore. Some tried capitalizing on its haunted reputation through tours in the 1970s and ’80s. Later, notable owners like Michael DeVinko spent significant sums restoring the mansion to its former glory before selling it in the 1990s.

In 1999, a major arson fire damaged parts of the castle, hindering restoration efforts. Though repairs began afterward, future conversion projects — including plans for a dinner club — stalled.

Today Franklin Castle stands as a blend of history and myth — partially restored, frequently photographed, and widely discussed. Recent efforts have opened it up for tours and even overnight stays, giving visitors a chance to experience its atmosphere first-hand.

Why Franklin Castle Draws Visitors From Near and Far

• Architectural Significance: A striking example of Queen Anne Victorian design, rich with turrets, carved stone, and historic detail.

• Haunted Reputation: Often cited as Ohio’s most haunted house, drawing paranormal enthusiasts and storytelling media alike.

• Cultural Landmark: A piece of Cleveland’s heritage, preserved and listed on the National Register.

• Unique Experiences: Tours, ghost hunts, and immersive stays offer visitors a chance to engage with its lore.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a skeptic, history lover, or paranormal seeker, Franklin Castle offers a fascinating slice of Ohio’s past — where architectural beauty and haunting legend intertwine. Its walls whisper stories of joy and sorrow, mystery and myth, making it one of the most compelling sites in Cleveland for travelers and ghost aficionados alike.