THE STORY
Reported Haunting
The historic Colton Hall is associated with reports of unexplained paranormal activity connected to Monterey's early California history. Visitors have reported hearing phantom footsteps, seeing shadow figures, and experiencing sudden cold spots throughout the building. Some believe former government officials and early residents still linger within the historic hall.
Colton Hall, built by Navy Chaplain Walter Colton (later a mayor and a judge), was the first public building constructed under the American flag. It was the site of the 1849 California Constitutional Convention as well as an execution spot: Convicted criminals were hanged from the second-floor porch balcony. Perhaps it is these doomed men whose ghosts have been felt by witnesses. Moving cold spots and the sound of footsteps also have been reported.