THE STORY
Reported Haunting
The John Sowden House has inspired numerous paranormal stories in addition to its unusual architecture and connections to the Black Dahlia investigation. Visitors have reported apparitions, shadow figures, unexplained voices, and an unsettling atmosphere throughout the residence. The home remains one of Los Angeles's most mysterious historic properties.
The John Sowden House was the site of the murder of Black Dahlia, aka Elizabeth Short, found surgically cut in half and dumped on a lot. Suspect Dr. George Hill Hodel fled the country. Subsequent residents of the home have heard voices, footsteps, and the sound of heavy chains dragging, and seen apparitions that appear to be Hodel. TV’s Ghost Hunters featured the house on an episode, and they caught the apparition on video as well as an EVP that said “It’s George.”