Labyrinth of Lies: The Truth Behind the Winchester Mystery House

Рет қаралды 388,166

Жыл бұрын

Uncover the truth behind the Winchester Mystery House - a labyrinth of lies and legends. Join us as we delve into the past to uncover the real story of Sarah Winchester, the mysterious and eccentric heiress who inherited the Winchester Rifle fortune. From seances to trapdoors, discover the truth behind the rumors and myths that have clouded the legacy of this iconic California mansion.
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Public Domain Photos from: Library of Congress, Carol M. Highsmith, San Jose Public Library, History San Jose,
CC BY 2.0 Photos from: Flickr User: San Jose Public Library California Room, Scarlet Sappho, samswitzer, JOHN LLOYD, madro, Daniel Ramirez, Charleen Mullenweg, Naotake Murayama, Trisha Fawver
CC BY-SA 3.0Photos from: KZfaq Channel: Wayward Waggs, Wikipedia User: TilTul, Cullen328, Roman Kharkovski
CC BY-SA 4.0Photos from: Wikipedia User: Sgerbic, Lyla0724, Larry McElhiney, Fæ
Music from: Epidemic Sound
Assets from: Envato Elements
Photos from: Find-A-Grave User: Paris
Info Sources:
"National Register Information System - (#74000559)". National Register of Historic Places. National Park Service. January 23, 2007.
"Winchester House". Office of Historic Preservation, California State Parks. Retrieved October 14, 2012.
Ignoffo, Mary Jo (2010). Captive of the Labyrinth. United States of America: The Curators of the University of Missouri, University of Missouri Press. ISBN 978-0-8262-1983-1.
Roberts, Mike. Winchester Mystery House San, Jose, California: Gardens and Historical Museum. Oakland, California. pp. 1-25.
Dunning, Brian. "Demystifying the Winchester Mystery House". Skeptoid. Retrieved March 22, 2022.
Dowd, Katie (September 16, 2019). "An envelope, hidden in a wall for 100 years, helps solve a Winchester Mystery House riddle". SFGATE. Archived from the original on October 4, 2019. Retrieved March 22, 2022.
Ignoffo, Mary Jo (2010). Captive of the Labyrinth. United States of America: The Curators of the University of Missouri, University of Missouri Press. pp. 138-157. ISBN 978-0-8262-1983-1.
Dowd, Katie (October 31, 2021). "Everything you think you know about the Winchester Mystery House probably isn't true". Archived from the original on September 7, 2022. Retrieved September 7, 2022.
Ignoffo, Mary Jo (2022). Captive of the Labyrinth: Sarah L. Winchester Heiress to the Rifle Fortune (Revised and updated ed.). Missouri: University of Missouri Press. p. preface. ISBN 9780826222701.
Romain, Lindsey (February 2, 2018). "The True Story Of The Winchester Mystery House". Film. Archived from the original on October 20, 2021. Retrieved August 26, 2022.
"That's Not Cool" Archived July 29, 2016, at the Wayback Machine originally from discovery.com/mythbusters
Richard Allan Wagner, personal research notes for The LOST SECRET of William Shakespeare, published by Richard Allan Wagner, Los Angeles, 2010.
Ralph Rambo, Lady of Mystery, published by THE PRESS, San Jose, California, 1967.

Пікірлер: 1 000

@ryansammonds3915 Жыл бұрын

As a recent tour guide, I will say that the house is starting to do much better representing Sarah’s history. A lot of the ghost stories about Sarah have been labeled as “legend” rather than fact. Especially for the guides who cared, which from my view was the vast majority of us, we would try to stress legends vs. facts, and focus in on Sarah the philanthropist, the art lover, the budding architect, and the woman who had been through so many horrible things that the building projects were more likely something to focus her energy into rather than a way to appease angry spirits. But of course so many guests want to hear the legends that those are still part of the tour, along with reported ghost sightings by both guides and guests. There are of course still haunted Halloween events but those as of late have had NOTHING to do with Sarah and are original stories independent of her great life. So many of us care about telling Sarah’s story and the story of those who lived and worked on the estate, and I feel like it’s important to note the changes that have been made since the days of the first tours or even the early 2000’s.

@katyd2400 Жыл бұрын

Hear hear!

@lorihayes1419 Жыл бұрын

Hi Ryan, I think what you and some of your fellow tour guides are doing to try to set the record straight is admirable. If successful you will have helped preserve the history, the unique architecture and also pass on the true story and legacy of a strong, independent, brilliant and quite remarkable woman. It appears it is a difficult task to undertake as people often do seem to prefer a less believable but more sensational rendering of the past. That said, what impresses me about this story is that the truth is a much more interesting and endearing tale and should be more compelling for historians, writers and guests. I hope perseverance changes the culture and allows the legacy to be recorded properly.

@capers72424 Жыл бұрын

@Ryan Sammonds I live near the Winchester House, and have probably been there about 10 times for tours over the years. In August 2022, my 12-year-old nephew visited me and wanted to tour the house. I can confirm that the informational content and presentation has changed dramatically, and the latest tour was fascinating. We took the house tour, and then a separate ghost tour. The ghost tour turned out to be just the two of us and an extremely knowledgable guide who had done a considerable amount of research in her spare time. One interesting fact I learned from this last visit, Sarah Winchester didn’t live full time in the Winchester House. She had another place just up the peninsula (Woodside? Atherton? I don’t recall exactly where) that was her primary residence.

@sk8ercaligirl Жыл бұрын

What is the explanation of rooms going nowhere? Or doors that lead to nothing? Something doesn’t add up. 🤔🙄

@capers72424 Жыл бұрын

@@sk8ercaligirl did you watch the video? Some of that was the result of earthquake damage. The “door to nowhere” on the side of the house with the sign was likely used to bring building materials into the upper levels of the house.

@disney4real Жыл бұрын

I grew up in Los Gatos/San Jose. As a kid, my piano teacher was in her eighties and had been friends with Sarah Winchester’s personal seamstress. She was angry at the portrayal of Sarah, who according to her friend was a kind, generous woman who intentionally kept building to keep people employed. Hearing the rest of the story is fascinating and I am glad it is being told. It is a shame how much damage crazy fabrications can do to a good person’s memory. Thanks so much!

@Crazycoyote-we7ey Жыл бұрын

Finally someone told the truth

@naomivought9317 3 ай бұрын

That’s actually really cool and sweet.

@TitaniumTurbine Ай бұрын

@@Crazycoyote-we7ey Yes, in a time of rampant conspiracy theories going unchecked, it’s refreshing to finally watch such a video and read these experiences.

@endiamuling6557 Ай бұрын

Thanks for sharing the truth. It was listed top 10 haunted house.

@oh2sail Жыл бұрын

I was a tour guide in the Alcatraz Night Tour for 15 years. The staff was always so sad that this kind of story was being perpetrated at Winchester Mystery House. Stories like this also caused visitors to Alcatraz to constantly ask me for ghost stories and “creepy stuff” when all I wanted to do was to share the history of real people. The real stories are so much more interesting and rich.

@rnrpeg1 Жыл бұрын

Absolutely! Well said! And honestly, it's so obvious why now, those Alcatraz tours were miles above the b.s. being spun at Winchester. Besides, who the heck needs ghost stories to feel the creepiness of Alcatraz?! 🥶🥶

@ladyhonor822 Жыл бұрын

Yeah I am a truth junkie. ☦️🙏🇺🇲❤️ AMEN Philadelphia USA

@parttime9070 Жыл бұрын

Back in the 60's my dad was friends with the light house keeper on Alcatraz and our family was invited out there for the day, we walked around the out side of lots of the buildings and fenced-in places.. What I found interesting was there were lots of things like socks filled with hand made domino's and hand balls made out of electrical tape just laying around.. My dad unscrewed the phone directory off a wall and took it home,, I still have it.. The light house was automated not long after that, then the occupation happened and it was burned down.. Must of been cold working out there..

@georgemetesky5519 Жыл бұрын

@@ladyhonor822 Truth no longer exists. Maybe you are addicted to some kind of emotion that certain content triggers in you. However, it's a fool's errand to seek truth anymore. Just believe what you want to believe. That's one of the few freedoms left, along with the freedom to eat junk foods, spread anxiety, etc. You can be sure that in Russia they tell the public the opposite of what we hear in USA. They have their truths, too. It's like a buffet.

@epowell4211 Жыл бұрын

If anyone asks for "creepy stuff" or more horror stories, tell them nothing supernatural is as horrible as the way the prisoners were treated.

@hlsilets7640 Жыл бұрын

OMG!! THIS IS A SUPER SHOCKER!!! 😲 I LIVED IN LOS ANGELES FOR 25 YEARS. EVERYONE HAD HEARD THE STORIES ABOUT HOW THE WORKERS HAD TO KEEP WORKING ON THE HOUSE 24/7/365 OR THE SPIRITS WOULD COME FOR HER. THANK YOU FOR FINALLY SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT!!!

@MD-gg5tf Жыл бұрын

please read what I wrote. I am a descendant of a key family who worked for Mrs. Winchester.

@Erik-gg2vb Жыл бұрын

I visited the house as a young kid with my family going to Lake Shasta from LA for holiday in the early 70's. Yes the tour guide said what you said.

@linasbutcher1914 Жыл бұрын

@H.L. Silets Why are you yelling? You are so loud! Is that really necessary? Your giving me a headache! 😖🤯😱

@billolsen4360 Жыл бұрын

I lived in California for 18 years and, unfortunately, it has been fertile soil for spiritual charlatans for well over a century.

@wanderingtreeestate Жыл бұрын

@@linasbutcher1914 THEN DON'T LISTEN!!! (AND TAKE SOME TYLENOL!) 😘

@carolynnixon7095 Жыл бұрын

Kudos to you for putting the truth out there. The injustice of the Browns destroying such a good person's reputation and legacy is hard to take.

@MD-gg5tf Жыл бұрын

please read what I wrote. I am a descendant of a key family who worked for Mrs. Winchester.

@crazynamehere6701 Жыл бұрын

@@MD-gg5tf Imagine making a troll KZfaq account to fabricate a story about a family member. Your great grandfather saw no such thing. This channel listed over 14 different sources. You would have to be well into your 80s or 90s for your great grandfather to have worked for Sarah. Stop spreading lies.

@malite-loo4152 Жыл бұрын

How many other people through history have had this happen , I wonder?

@andylindsaytunes Жыл бұрын

@@MD-gg5tf No-one believes you.

@kimivlach7052 Жыл бұрын

user-oz6yx6hz5r..... Where? I keep seeing this comment see what you wrote, but where?? Thanks!

@mitchellbarnow1709 Жыл бұрын

I am shocked and outraged about what they've done to this amazing woman's legacy! I hope that her memory will be restored to the true story.

@jessebowen1879 Жыл бұрын

I hate the lies... never was I taught that the earthquake was what caused the erratic ending halls, doors to no where etc... a pity.. this woman was a genius with her grand idea and design .

@bholmes5490 Жыл бұрын

@@jessebowen1879 On the tour they do tell you that when the Earthquake happened she was convinced the spirits were out to get her. So she closed up rooms of the house, and did not use them. Why would anyone build doors or stair to no where? They explain she was told to confuse the spirits. The home does NOT have a feeling of genius, but rather one of nuts. I've been on the tour quite a few times as I hosted exchange students, and took them there. I haven't been for twenty years, so if the tours I was on were fraudulent, then I hope they have changed.

@B_HarTz Жыл бұрын

Mitchell barnow aka a Karen …”I am shocked and outraged” are facts and sayings of a “Karen”

@bezalel5081 Жыл бұрын

Very interesting to hear this, and a shame that people drug her name through the mud to make money. They even made an awful movie about the house (don’t watch it, seriously, it’s garbage). I can’t remember the last time I was genuinely shocked and/or outraged though.

@stacey4u2luv Жыл бұрын

@@B_HarTz There is no room in this world for hate and racism. What other race do you call names? We all come from one race the human race, but you I am not so sure about.

@shirlenecleveland9290 Жыл бұрын

Hello Ken! I have been interested in this story since I heard about it on a documentary channel many years ago. So I took a trip to San Jose to visit it for myself 24 years ago. Besides the rumors that were presented to us on the tour. The Mansion is amazing! The architecture is beautiful! The millwork is gorgeous! My whole fascination was with the architecture of the house, not the story. Sarah Winchester was really ahead of her time. There were so many patents that she was responsible for that are used today and in the earlier decades before. She used the finest materials to build her mansion. Her stain glass collection is exquisite. There are so many of them that did not see the light of day. Just in the low light that I observed them , I was very impressed. I can imagine the beauty if they had the natural light of sunshine. The collection of stain glass would give the appearance of precious jewels. Ken, you did an excellent job on the history of the "THE WINCHESTER MANSION" Thank you!

@MD-gg5tf Жыл бұрын

please read what I wrote. I am a descendant of a key family who worked for Mrs. Winchester.

@crazynamehere6701 Жыл бұрын

@jasminespencer3992 Жыл бұрын

I agree, the visit was a fascinating experience I just ignored all of the scripted narration by the tour guide and like you admired the physical house and the experience of visiting a preserved house from that time.

@kodyjbosch1 Жыл бұрын

SO true! she bought Tiffany glass windows seemingly Wholesale. LOL - wonder if she ever had personal interactions with LC Tiffany (Compare this place to Laurelton Hall - which was also recently featured on this channel) - One of the things I found most amazing is that in one of her plant conservatories, she had the floor coated in metal. I believe Zinc - that also went partly up the walls, maybe four or 5 inches. there were small square sections that could be lifted out of the floor, modulor style, then a potted plant could be set into the "pond" and water let into the area and the water would wick up through the roots / potting soil. that has always stuck with me as amazing. I don't know if it was one of her inventions but, one of the elevators in the house is operated by a hand pump. I seem to recall she invented things to do with doing laundry and kitchen sinks. Maybe a sink with a built in washboard ? Whatever her mental state, neuroatypical or not. The Lady certainly was a genius in her own right.

@junglekutz5625 Жыл бұрын

One of the good things about knowing specifics first hand and also doing the math on what you see and can sense for yourself. Whatever foolishness that you hear and others claim, tend to be ignored. As most individuals that are good at fabricating lies, have a tendancy of creating false rumors about individuals that they believe need to be seen in a negative light. Especially when and if their life and the way that they're living it, is bland.

@natsuroadkillpuffin Жыл бұрын

worked there for 4 years and did my hardest to get this message across every tour. some people just don't want to hear the truth. bless you for posting this, the truth needs to be heard.

@dianehenkel9088 Жыл бұрын

Everyone should visit the Winchester Mystery House. It’s amazing, the tours show all the beauty of this amazing mansion.❤️

@ganymededarling Жыл бұрын

Do they tell the true story or the fictions?

@timw8228 Жыл бұрын

@@ganymededarling When I was there it was the fictional story as I recall

@dianehenkel9088 Жыл бұрын

@@ganymededarling I believe the fictionalized story but it’s worth visiting anyway. The seance room with a window in the floor plus another window in the seance room on a wall was over a kitchen so Sarah Winchester could hear what the staff was talking about if she chose to.

@Phlowermom Жыл бұрын

It's the fictional story. My uncle lives 2 blocks away from the estate so we were there quite a bit. Everyone should go before it's gone, it is an exceptionally beautiful house and gardens. I would always picture myself living there as I was growing up but I couldn't see how anyone in a ball gown, with a partner and let's say a trio providing the music to dance to, along with even a small guest list would be hard pressed to find room to breathe in, let alone dance in that "ballroom"! Laugh at the tour, look at the house!

@dianehenkel9088 Жыл бұрын

@@Phlowermom I love the ballroom. And to see all those huge Tiffany stained glass windows stored there but not used. They are so beautiful.

@LJB103 Жыл бұрын

I have only heard the ghost story about this house. While I did know that the tower collapsed in 1906, I did not know how much of the house also was destroyed. Thank you for the new information. Excellent video.

@MD-gg5tf Жыл бұрын

please read what I wrote. I am a descendant of a key family who worked for Mrs. Winchester.

@crazynamehere6701 Жыл бұрын

@aaronandrews3059 Жыл бұрын

10 years ago, I went for the first time to this amazing place. The tour guide provided that first tale and very few rooms were furnished. In 2019 I went again, and the story had changed to tell more of the truth about her. The movie Winchester, even though fiction, has helped bring more people and funds for renovations. It also helped in the discovery of 3 rooms that had been boarded up after the earthquake.

@MD-gg5tf Жыл бұрын

please read what I wrote. I am a descendant of a key family who worked for Mrs. Winchester.

@kevingonzales5149 10 ай бұрын

That Winchester movie was a horror story, it was pretty bad.

@sleeplessstu Жыл бұрын

Back in the late ‘60’s and early ‘70’s the story that was told to ME was that Mrs. Winchester had the idea that if she kept building that she would never die. She kept building and building (even stairways to “nowhere”) just so she could prolong her life. I think that in Today’s world, Sarah Winchester would be celebrated as an icon of ingenuity and spirit and would likely have her OWN KZfaq channel 😂

@Catbooks Жыл бұрын

That's the same story I heard. Wonder where it came from. Same people?

@St.Linguini_of_Pesto Жыл бұрын

Yep, I can recall the commercials for the Winchester.. "keeeep buillldinnng". I've visited that home a few times throughout my childhood (when my parents would ask what I wanted to do on my birthday, I usually replied "Winchester or Egyptian museum" -the Rosicrucian place was around the same area) and I do recall passing a strange man-shaped shadow on a staircase when I was 6, but as to the other ghost stories regarding this beautiful home, I could not say. One thing I know to be an absolute solid fact: if there was a need for a person to reside in the home, then ✋🏻 right here! Choose wisely, choose me. I am Tortellini Primavera, and I approve this message.

@MD-gg5tf Жыл бұрын

please read what I wrote. I am a descendant of a key family who worked for Mrs. Winchester.

@sleeplessstu Жыл бұрын

@@MD-gg5tf A fascinating legacy in your family ! Thanks for sharing. I haven’t been through the mansion for over 50 years. I’ll take my kids and grandchild next time AND pay particular attention to the masonry and fireplaces !

@kodyjbosch1 Жыл бұрын

@@MD-gg5tf what did you write? I'm super curious, one of the Winchester Houses biggest fans for over 21 years. :p - I'm looking forward with great relish to finding your comments!

@TheSockMonkeyGuy Жыл бұрын

I have an elderly friend who, when he was young, knew one of Sarah Winchester's neighbors. The neighbor told him many stories of Mrs. Winchester's kindness and generosity.

@Jingho Жыл бұрын

Thank you for this video, I only ever heard the ghost stories, it is so much more interesting to find out about the actual person and the life she had in the house.

@GlassOwl84 Жыл бұрын

I never knew any of this. Those people really ruined the beautiful truth by making a wonderful woman seem nuts. Those people are disgusting.

@IntriguedLioness Жыл бұрын

I just posted my thoughts on the same. I am so glad I never booked a tour and therefore funded what has become a joke … instead of an architectural attraction it invites ghost enthusiasts and gawkers. So glad this video was posted!

@GlassOwl84 Жыл бұрын

@@IntriguedLioness Me, too. I love ghost hunting, but when stories are fake, like Rolling Hills Asylum's owner fabricates, it really kills the attraction on that front. I'd be more curious to see The Winchester House now knowing she was ahead of her time, and what talent she had to offer. 😊👍

@pandabear1341 Жыл бұрын

I always thought the stories told of her building innovations appeared odd next to the superstitious parts. So glad to hear the record being set straight. The elaborate communication system she created in the house impressed my child self. And that she entertained US Presidents.

@GlassOwl84 Жыл бұрын

@@pandabear1341 Agreed!

@crazynamehere6701 Жыл бұрын

@nisiedraws4854 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for posting the truth about this inspiring woman and her beautiful house! I was very lucky that when I visited the house as a teen, our tour guide offered a balanced mix of "spooky rumors" and real facts about how difficult it was for a woman to pursue an interest in architecture at that time, even with class and money in her favor. The fact that people were more willing to believe that a woman was being instructed by ghosts than have her own ideas really stuck with me, and made me think about how difficult it is for people to pursue their dreams and goals when they fall outside of cultural norms and expectations. I'm so glad that this house has been preserved and future generations can learn about her and her story.

@IntriguedLioness Жыл бұрын

I am very glad to see this video! I lived in San Francisco for years and often went to San Jose on business yet never went by the house. I simply did not believe the lore and with a lifelong love of architecture and history of stately mansions I simply did not want to make this a carnival attraction. Now that I have seen this video I am definitely happy I never booked the tour. I grew up on what would be considered an “estate” and my British family was there for generations. The staff and those who worked the ranch were family and if anything the Manor made sure that there was always plenty of work. This becomes an economic asset to the surrounding people. I’ve always thought that Sarah Winchester had this in her and since she had more money than she could ever spend she was happy to start this project knowing that it would put so many people to work during such a period of immigration and growth in California. Great video, hopefully those who believed the “tourist attraction“ deception see this video and realize there is always the truth behind the sales gimmick.

@sage1875 Жыл бұрын

IntriguedLioness In 1950 the San Francisco Examiner in their supplement American Weekly published an article about the Winchester Mystery House.

@danielulz1640 Жыл бұрын

THANK YOU for setting the record straight. From 83 to 01, I lived in the Bay Area and visited the Winchester House several times. I could tell that what the Guides were telling us did not make sense. I also spoke with people whose parents or grandparents knew or worked for Mrs. Winchester and they all said what a caring, giving and normal woman she was.

@JenniferJJones-cq7yl Жыл бұрын

Ken, Thank you for making this video! Sarah Winchester was a kind and benevolent person and a brilliantly talented visionary born much before her time. I visited her mansion just this past autumn and I felt so much love and consideration in her home. Stories of how she kept local people employed during times of terrible economic struggle and the great kindness that she showed her staff were much more my take-away than any of the “oogie-boogie” ghost stories that I had previously heard. My feeling, after the experience, was that if there ARE spirits lingering there that they would be those of staff that she had treated as family and that they might “stay on” to watch over the home of their gracious employer and friend. She is an unspoken hero of her time, not only for all of her work and innovations on the West Coast, but also her philanthropic work with The Red Cross and her building of the William Wirt Winchester Annex for Tuberculosis in West Haven, CT. (Though the annex itself no longer exists, she had set up a fund which, to this day, over 100 years later, supports the Winchester Chest Clinic at the Yale New Haven Hospital.) THANK YOU for honoring this astounding woman. 🥰👏🏼

@annerohrbacker6097 Жыл бұрын

That poor woman...I, too, have heard this story numerous times. Thank you, Ken, for this video!

@christopherkraft1327 Жыл бұрын

The Winchester House is indeed a fascinating place, I've toured it a few times & took away something new each time!! I'm glad that you set the record straight, that Sarah was a kind benevolent person & not a nut!!! Thanks for sharing this interesting video!!! 👍🙂👍

@tarareads23 Жыл бұрын

Wow!! You just debunked a long long history of The Winchester House. 😱 And I’m glad you did! I had no clue of the real story. And they made a movie about the “hauntings” and everything with Helen Mirren. Mrs. Winchester sounded like a wonderful woman. I just hope when the niece sold the house that she divided the money up equally to the staff that inherited part of the house. Makes me want to go and visit this house even more. Thanks so much for sharing this with us.

@mrknoch Жыл бұрын

Guess you don't need the internet to spin a yarn! In this case the internet set the record straight. Great video.

@Mpiewizard 5 ай бұрын

I grew up near the Winchester House. I’ve known the true story my whole life mostly because my mother knew people who had worked there who openly told her the well known story was false. I think it’s what started my utter annoyance at how often supposedly haunted places fabricate stories when readily available historical evidence points to something completely different which is something that consistently keeps me more of a skeptic than believer in the paranormal. Watching ghost hunting videos there could literally drive me insane, I swear. I understand that all legends start somewhere but I don’t understand why haunted locations get a pass when it comes to fabricating history. It irks me so much that I’ve genuinely thought about writing a book about the true stories of haunted locations based on actual evidence we have. I appreciate that the true story of Sarah and this house is finally starting to gain traction. I always tell people to visit it regardless. It’s a gorgeous house and I was absolutely live there or spend the night if I could.

@SJR_Media_Group Жыл бұрын

*_Sarah Winchester was ahead of her times... her legacy will live on forever.._* Sarah's vision became reality through the hard work of skilled tradesmen. Everything in the mega house was the best of the very best. Price was never an issue, timing and availability were primary factors in her decorations. I saw the house as a youngster. I still remember the front facade that seemed to go on for blocks. *_I studied Architecture and Landscape Architecture. The Winchester Property is Priceless._*

@randykreifels6171 Жыл бұрын

Wow, this is one of the best shows yet simply because you have brought out the truth of this home, and since I have visited it a couple times it all makes sense now ! Thanks

@bridgetdavis9752 Жыл бұрын

I'm over 60 years old and I have never heard the truth of Sarah Winchester's life. Well done. Subscribing now!

@debbied7035 Жыл бұрын

I've been there a couple times. I live in the area and have been here for 40 years off and on. I really enjoyed hearing the real story of the house. The first time I went it was not as dressed up and staged as it is now. But I remember noticing the stairs from the carriage way into the house, they certainly made sense and the shower in her bathroom. Very clever. Also, the bell made perfect sense for a farm or large property because how else would you summon your staff or signal lunch etc. Personally I thought the odd rooms were just because she would copy a room that she had fond memories of or thought were attractive. Your explanation makes more sense. I assumed that she had some belief in spiritualism as most people did in those days, just that they laid it on way too thick. The place really isn't spooky at all. There's a very nice museum of Winchester firearms that you can enjoy while you are waiting for your tour to start. Btw, the area around the place is kinda seedy. Not bad or risky, just sort of tired 1970s blah. It's still very interesting, just very urban. Then again it's easy to get to.

@KathiAnn Жыл бұрын

I knew this back in the early 70s. When I took the tour as a teenager, I bought a book in their gift shop titled fact versus fiction on the Winchester house. It explained how doors that went nowhere was there for future construction on the room not ready to build yet. And water faucets that would stick out of the wall would be water for the new room that would be someday built. when the history channel did a documentary on the Winchester house, they based it on all those wise tales of ghosts. I wrote the history channel and told him to retract everything. I am glad you got this video out there because for years I felt like I was alone voice for the real Sarah Winchester.

@theseduxe1111 Жыл бұрын

Yay! Thank you for doing this video! She was such a wonderful woman, way ahead of her time.

@dak85016 Жыл бұрын

Very interesting. I toured the house when I was 10 and remember being creeped out by those stories when we were taking the tour. The staircase to nowhere was especially spooky. Thanks for setting the record straight.

@proudvirginian Жыл бұрын

I remembered hearing this story as a kid in the 70's or 80's and up until now I've never heard the true story. I'm glad you've set it all straight. She deserves a good legacy.

@KP82457 Жыл бұрын

I've been waiting for you to talk about this mysterious house. Thanks 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

@janedee6488 Жыл бұрын

I’m so glad you covered this one. It’s just a house with a goofy floor plan and no ghosts.

@bscottb8 Жыл бұрын

The house is undeniably a monument to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

@twanohguy Жыл бұрын

I have been hoping you would do a video on this house. I have visited it 3 times. It is an amazing place. The rumor I heard, back in the day, was that Sarah wouldn't die as long as she kept building. Thanks, Ken.

@peggyekena9966 Жыл бұрын

I grew up in San Jose, California and visited the Winchester House only once. It was very interesting and the tour relied heavily on the mysterious aspect of the home and Mrs. Winchester. I so enjoyed your video and learned things that I never knew about Mrs. Winchester. Hopefully, the tour will change the narrative and tell the truth about her life.

@blueeyedbehr Жыл бұрын

thank you for the video about a fascinating mansion. i visited it in 1995 and was told all the typical lies the docents are forced to tell visitors. about five years ago i read "captive of the labyrinth" by mary jo ignoffo, which documents the actual events and facts of sarah's life, other homes, and philanthropy. i highly recommend the book to anyone who enjoys learning the real history.

@stephenwinchester6675 Жыл бұрын

I am Stephen Winchester ( Born one hundred years after Oliver Winchester founded the Winchester Repeating Arms Co. ) and I approve this video :)

@andrewbrendan1579 Жыл бұрын

Maybe this is more of the myth, but I've heard that Sarah Winchester invented sinks with built-in washboards and that it was her idea to have kitchen counters with curved, raised fronts to keep things from spilling to the floor.

@ThisHouse Жыл бұрын

A fun fact that we did not include in this video is that she filed several patents as she worked through solutions for problems that arose during construction (mostly for water run-off). I would have to double check, but it seems plausible that she might have invented that.

@andrewbrendan1579 Жыл бұрын

@@ThisHouse Thanks for the reply and information, Ken! I"m catching up with you: this is really in relation to your video about the Robie house. Here's another fun fact: in the 1974 disaster movie "The Towering Inferno" the skyscraper the Glass Tower was inspired by the Frank Lloyd Wright drawing or plan for a "mile-high skyscraper". Speaking of Show business, actress Anne Baxter was the granddaughter of Frank Lloyd Wright. Also at Indiana University where I work a new building just opened: it's a 1956 design by Mies van der Rohe. The building is small, spare and......cost $55million dollars!

@DawnDavidson Жыл бұрын

@@ThisHouseThat sounds right, from the tour I took last Fall (10/2022). There were several fascinating inventions and conveniences, including a communication system throughout the house, dumbwaiters between floors, many built in cabinets and storage units, those fascinating stairs, and some stunningly beautiful washbasins. Fascinating history!

@danielulz1640 Жыл бұрын

No myth. Mrs. Winchester DID invent the laundry sink with the slanted front and the built-in scrub board and patented it! The scrub board has been mostly discontinued, but we ALL know what a laundry sink or set tub looks like. Thanks to Mrs. Winchester.

@whitneysis617 Жыл бұрын

@@danielulz1640 this is fascinating to learn! I have one in my basement that is hooked up and is in pristine condition. I’m at least the 6th owner and so glad no one ever removed it. My house was built in 1929.

@rickyt3961 Жыл бұрын

9:16 ~ thank you for clearing her name. that’s so sad to hear of such gossip about a person who has passed.

@WorldofMichaelTrent Жыл бұрын

Thank you for telling the true story. I have always heard the lies and hearing the truth was nice for a change.

@paco7992 Жыл бұрын

I've toured this house, which was definitely a bucket list item. Ms. Winchester was way ahead of her time. This is just a play house for her to teach herself Architecture. Thank you for including the families she kept employed. A truly wonderful place. There are so many good ideas!

@tristantristancraped Жыл бұрын

Been waiting for this video forever. I grew up near this mansion and we use to always go to it in the middle of the night as they only had 1 security guard on duty.

@jaynareynolds3684 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for setting the record straight.

@angiebjourney Жыл бұрын

Thank you for shedding light on this. I had no idea! I hope her amazing legacy is restored!

@justinjayankura8676 Жыл бұрын

All the times I visited the Winchester house, I've never once felt it to be haunted or have bad energy. It always had good vibes.

@markdaniels7174 9 ай бұрын

A longtime manager of the house says he was there, alone at night, hundreds of times and never experienced anything “supernatural.”

@tudorjason Жыл бұрын

Fascinating episode!

@litebriteeyes Жыл бұрын

I live nearby, in fact I was born about a mile away from her house. Vintage local history books do tell a more accurate story about her, but the crazy stories sell so much better! I'm glad you're telling her story here. New viewer, will subscribe!

@dalechodorow7465 Жыл бұрын

Ken: Glad you set the record straight. Thanks!

@user-hp9or4ls7p 6 ай бұрын

This house has always fascinated me since I was a child. Thank you for this very enlightened review. As usual, the truth is much better than the lie. 🏆😎

@nancywalty4688 Жыл бұрын

San Jose is my hometown and the Winchester Mystery House was part of my childhood. We drove past it all the time, to the big mall on Stevens Creek, shopping across the street at the Town & Country Plaza with the biggest hobby shop in the area. I remember going on a tour in the 60's and being told it was believed to be haunted by those killed by the Winchester Rifles, and as a child I accepted that, but worried about it. Recently I watched the Hollywood movie and enjoyed the historical drama of Mrs. Winchester's life of the haunted stories. Your biography relieved me of my childhood nightmares and reminded me of the facts, evidence and then clarifing the muttled past. I appreciate your true account and the research done to educate us the public.

@Steven-wm9vu Жыл бұрын

Just in time for the weekend!

@Punkieinthehouse Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for telling the real story. THE FACTS MATTERS!

@lindacalaicone1783 Ай бұрын

I visited last week. Her grief stricken eccentricity in avoiding ghosts from visiting her is still the lead story. Though our guide did talk about her kindness too. Your version is compelling. Thank you.

@Lighthouse4297 Жыл бұрын

I've visited this house. I'm so happy to hear the truth behind it. Thank you!

@geneseward6139 Жыл бұрын

I never felt "right" upon hearing the tragic story of Mrs Winchester. Now I know why. Thank you for sharing the truth about this home. Great job!

@raebean6018 Жыл бұрын

I'm Australian and this is the first time I have heard a different story to the ghosts of Wincesters. That made me sad to hear someone so generous and loved had their history rewritten for financial gain (or any other reason). I've retold the ghost version of the story to other people because I found it so interesting and actually avoided this video of yours because it may have been scary. Wow. Thanks for clearing this up - her story makes total sense.

@Laura-zy5jp Жыл бұрын

It is really appalling the things people will say and do to make money and get ahead in life . Sarah was a visionary ahead of her time . The mansion is enormous. But she seemed to live a rather secluded life once her husband passed. As always Ken another fascinating well researched video about another equally fascinating home. This was really good👍👌💯💐

@SpanishEclectic Жыл бұрын

Thanks for covering this fascinating California landmark, Ken. I took the tour in the early 80s, while visiting a friend who lived in the area. I had only hear the 'supernatural' version of the story, and since spiritualism was popular after the Civil War, did not look further until now. A Feb. 5th, 2018 article by Katie Dowd in the San Francisco Gate supports your version of the story, with added references to economic troubles, additional rumors, and news articles from the time. Hopefully your video will disseminate the true truth more widely. Sarah Winchester was wealthy enough to do what she wanted, keeping her mind busy with building plans, and provide work for local craftsmen and gardeners. The interior decoration is gorgeous, full of beautiful ornate wood. We all love ornate wood, or we wouldn't be here, lol. The stained glass could fill a museum. If you haven't visited the house, you should. :)

@marywinchester5030 Жыл бұрын

I am a 3rd cousin five times removed of William's father, Oliver Winchester and had never heard the actual, true story behind Sarah's house and her motives. It is quite interesting for me as I've always felt a connection to it albeit a distant one. Thank you!

@markus7166 10 ай бұрын

So basically you arent related to him in any way..

@Mahogany3661 Жыл бұрын

I've been to Sarah's house 3 times. Always thought the story was strange. Thank you so much for stating the truth behind her life. 🙂

@normhal4908 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for your truth about this kind woman. I have done a little internet research and have felt there has been a huge scrubbing away of Mrs. Winchester's history.

@MD-gg5tf Жыл бұрын

please read what I wrote. I am a descendant of a key family who worked for Mrs. Winchester.

@normhal4908 Жыл бұрын

@@MD-gg5tf What a proud family history you have. My grandfather raised pigs in Kansas, not a lot to talk about there.

@juliaheger8127 Жыл бұрын

@@MD-gg5tf = CUT AND PASTE, AD NAUSEUM TROLL with no life.

@gregoryferraro7379 Жыл бұрын

I have only heard the lore surrounding the house. This is the first time I heard the truth. What a fascinating and tragic story.

@williamtyre523 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for this video. I had never heard the real story before, but it needs to be told. Hopefully the fabricated stories of the past will fade away and Sarah Winchester and her house can be interpreted correctly.

@stevehunt3121 Жыл бұрын

All this time I believed those stories to be true. Thanks Ken for posting this.

@TheFaeryRing Жыл бұрын

WOW, just wow... I grew up in Cali & NEVER knew the truth, only the urban legend. THANK YOU for sharing the truth about Sarah & her amazing life.

@wdjones4735 Жыл бұрын

I’m glad you cleared up the history of this house👍🏻

@aaronfrahm623 Жыл бұрын

I toured the house in 1980 and then again in 2017. To say the two experiences were vastly different is an understatement. I was beyond pleased that the guide focused on Sarah's philanthropy and the realities that gave the house its "final form." The facts are far more interesting than fiction. Wonderful video, thank you.

@PoetGorman Жыл бұрын

The saddest part of the lies-for-profit told about Sarah Winchester is that history has been deprived of the amazing legacy of a pioneering woman who challenged the patriarchy, designed an amazing place, and defied the stereotype of the selfish rich by sharing her wealth with her workers and eventually embracing them as friends. What a role model she could be for all of us, particularly young girls being told the things they "can't be". Sarah didn't listen to such negativity and they should not either. None of us should. As a writer myself who loves telling the forgotten stories from history, I applaud your efforts to right this wrong. I hope others will take the truth you have told and give us back this piece of herstory. Well done, sir.

@TheVerbalVolley Жыл бұрын

Absolutely fascinating! I visited the house in 1990, when it was largely unfurnished. Now I see that they have decorated it with great taste. Thank you for setting record straight.

@russboulet2228 Жыл бұрын

This was so informative. You really did a service with this video. Thanks!

@The_Smith Жыл бұрын

Great video Ken, nice to know the truth, which is more interesting than the other one . . . Thankyou.

@Angie-sk4th Жыл бұрын

Thank you for this video! I've heard the wrong version for so long. It is refreshing to hear the real story behind the house and Sarah. The real story is much more cooler!!

@kimcarter7567 Жыл бұрын

So totally surprised to learn this! I’ve been to the Mystery House and believed all the lies. Thanks for clearing it up.

@ZagnutBar 7 ай бұрын

I visited the Winchester mystery house in the early 2000s, and I don't remember any effort being made to dissuade the idea that it was a ghost house. This is incredibly interesting; thanks for this.

@Joseph-mf4sw 8 ай бұрын

Thanks, Ken, for informing viewers of the REAL Sarah Wincester and the REAL story of the Wincester House in San Jose, CA. I have toured the house and confirm that the tour guide spouted out lies about Sarah Wincester, her life and her country house in San Jose. As you point out, Sarah was a talented woman with a warm personality. Her main residence was a mansion in Atherton, CA, but she spent considerable time at her San Jose estate. She was generous to her employees, and one wonders if she didn't continue to add on to her San Jose house just to provide some work for her farm workers in the off-season.

@pamelas1002 Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for giving us the truth! Another reason why I love your channel!

@wandaingram4776 Жыл бұрын

I would love to go and visit the Winchester House someday, it sounds so interesting and very beautiful to see it up close !! Thx for posting this video!!

@toolsteel8482 Жыл бұрын

I visited this house in 1984 , I knew it to have 160 rooms, but wow, I did not know or recall that there were over three hundred rooms. Yes , I was sold the false story of the house being built for ghosts. I enjoyed this presentation very much, thanks TH.

@waynewideman4949 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for making a start to reframe her story to give credit where credit is definitely due. What is the status of the mansion now?

@LL-bl8hd Жыл бұрын

Did you say it lost nearly two thirds of its rooms in the earthquake??? I can't imagine how massive it must have been before that! I hope someday they can remove the changes that were made by the Browns and perhaps restore some of the lost rooms.

@JodysJourney Жыл бұрын

Thank you for sharing. I’ve only heard the ghost story side. What a shame. She sounds like a wonderful lady.

@BIGGEOFF40 Жыл бұрын

WOW! I absolutely never heard that version of events before. 🤯

@knutk.dderlein9375 Жыл бұрын

Living in Norway, Europe all my life (I am 74), i have NEVER heard anything but the false assumption that Sarah Winchester's house was deliberately built the way it is today in order to confuse spirits -- and the claim that Sarah Winchester herself believed all her life that spirits were out to "get" her. For the record, I have not been inside the Winchester mansion in spite of the fact that I have travelled in the US more than most Norwegians. My wife is American. Thank you for a very informative video!

@Fedgery007 Жыл бұрын

I feel betrayed and bewildered.

@hollyshaw-elliemae Жыл бұрын

ive been on 6 tours, i live north of san fran and the house is absolutely stunning and well kept up. not going to lie, the place does feel hella creepy. regardless of the story, it was a place ill never forget. i have very fond and precious memories there. the last tour i went on was with my best friend of many many years and she died a year later. ill never forget being there with her.

@Witchofthewood 6 ай бұрын

I sincerely appreciate that so many people can tell the story as it was. To me the real truth is even better than the usual ''ghost story'' that as become redondant over the years. To meet the real wonderful and generous lady is a beautiful fresh start and I will tell to prolong Sarah's beautiful personnality. Too bad alot of people will have seen the ''movie'' by now. It is such a shame. Long live the memory of the generous soul of Sarah Winchester !

@larrykaufman8100 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for setting the story right and honoring this great woman.,

@nanasewdear Жыл бұрын

I had an inkling that the stories were all hype. I was searching through historic California newspapers looking for family that lived in San Jose and ran across stories about Sarah Winchester. There was nothing that spoke to any mysteries and only a slight eccentricity was implied. The house was auctioned off and the townspeople were quite anxious to see inside.

@wmtrader Жыл бұрын

Look for the video called "The Winchester House (1985) by Trish Newfarmer". It is a historically accurate documentary with interviews of people who knew Sarah Winchester.

@neddoucet7779 Жыл бұрын

I just found your site, and was impressed by the story which you just told. I had heard about the 'infamous' Winchester Mansion, and am delighted to find that, in fact, it was the home of an influential and determined woman possessed with an empathic soul which knew no bounds. Well done, and thanks from the beautiful mid-Hudson valley.

@Du-Masses Жыл бұрын

Thank you for giving us the facts. I lived in San Jose for years and had been fed the supernatural silliness.

@violetdreams1799 Жыл бұрын

mind-blowing 😤

@prithivkrishnabpk Жыл бұрын

Hi ,i too thought these many days that the story was real ,that it's haunted and it's afteround stories ,thanks for your work ,all the very best from your sincere subscriber

@lisariggs8947 Жыл бұрын

Wow I had absolutely no clue regarding the truth! Thank you so much Ken, I emensly enjoyed the truth, and great choice😄👍😄

@brandbryce Жыл бұрын

Thank you very much for the clarification(s): it is good to have/see research reference(s), as well. Excellent work: thanks again!

@getsmart9987 Жыл бұрын

I grew up in San Jose and toured the “Mystery House” many times. They have tour guides who tell all the stories of occult dabblings you shared and more. It’s a shame how anyone can fabricate something for money and literally change a persons legacy. Since Sarah had no heirs, they get away with it.

@califdad4 11 ай бұрын

She had bay area family, cousins etc. One in her day was Lt Gov of California, she left all her home furniture to her niece or cousin. This family of hers was why she moved West to the bay area.. I believe they lived in Oakland and Berkeley

@jeanbaker2087 Жыл бұрын

I toured the home in 1996. I think a lot of the tales about Sarah were exaggerated beyond belief, but some may be based on facts. She was a very kind and generous person. It was my understanding that the building did not stop until her death. Some of the rooms I went thru did seem a little spooky, but without human help. I enjoyed visiting and learning about her and her home.

@shoppingonchampagne Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for the shocking update on the Winchester Mystery House! I've been on the tour and there was absolutely no mention of all the info you provide. I used to despise the house, now I have a new appreciation for it! 🤩