The Haunting Truth of Squire’s Castle: Willoughby, OH

Photo Credit: Marisa DeRoma (a.k.a The Wandering Oddball)

Nestled in North Chagrin, Ohio, a castle-like structure stands empty on the serene Cleveland Metroparks. This is Squire’s Castle. It was once a home from 1890 until the Metroparks eventually gained ownership. Today, it serves as a venue for photographers and selfie-takers. Unaware that there is a legend associated with the structure, some people claim they see a spectre of a woman roaming around the grounds. Some believe it to be the ghost of Louisa Squire, who tragically passed away in the former residence. 

The Ghost Story

The legend goes that on a stormy night in October 1927, Louisa woke up and went downstairs to investigate after hearing noises. Near the edge of the stairs, a loud boom came from the thunder outside. Lightning illuminated the trophy room, casting ghastly shadows on the walls. Poor Louisa Squire was so startled that she fell down the stairs and broke her neck. 

Over the years, many people have reported seeing a ghostly figure of a woman gliding around the grounds of Squire’s Castle. Many believe it to be the spirit of Louisa Squire; however, if you happened to see a spirit, it would be unlikely to be her. 

The Real History of Squire’s Castle

Louisa married Feargus B. Squire in 1876. Feargus was an executive at Standard Oil Company, which John D. Rockefeller founded. He was also the former mayor of Wickliffe, Ohio. 

In 1890, Feargus would purchase some land in a wooded area, now Willoughby Hills. Construction would not begin till 1895. He wanted to go for a Romanesque-style gatekeeper house. No plumbing or electricity was intact. Initially, Squire wanted it to be a manor, but it didn’t come to fruition due to labor costs. So it ended up being a weekend country home. It is also worth noting that Lousia was not a massive fan of the structure, so they visited less often after 1908. In 1922, Squire’s Castle would be sold to developers. Louisa died in October 1927, at Wickliffe on Cobblestone Garth, NOT Squire’s Castle.  Feargus passed away in July 1932.

Up view from inside Squire's Castle. Photo credit: Marisa DeRoma (a.k.a The Wandering Oddball)

Eventually, in 1925, Squire’s Castle came under the ownership of the Cleveland Metroparks. In 1995, after years of vandalism, the building was restored to its glory. Today, it sits in the Metroparks, surrounded by picnickers and dog walkers.