‘Haunted’ Civil War-Era Octagon Mansion Hits the Market in Virginia for Less Than $300K After Being Left ‘Vacant for First Time in Years’

The Octagon Mansion in Wytheville, Virginia, has been listed for sale at $295,000, marking its return to the market after years of being a focal point for conspiracy theories regarding its "haunted" history. Constructed in 1870, the historic octagon home has been the subject of numerous paranormal investigations, with some documented on its official Facebook page. The property previously housed the Octagon Mansion History Museum, established by curator John Cushman in 2019 after he purchased the dwelling, which had been vacant for nearly a decade. The museum, which hosted "dinner with a ghost" events, ceased operations in March 2025, leaving the mansion available for a new owner. Octagon homes gained popularity in the 1850s and 1860s, promoted for their perceived efficiency and increased space, as detailed in Orson Fowler's 1848 book "The Octagon House: A Home for All." However, this architectural trend was brief, leading to the demolition of many such structures. The Octagon Mansion is noted as a well-preserved example of this style, featuring six bedrooms and a 5,000-square-foot interior. Recent renovations include a commercial kitchen, updated bathrooms, and improved electrical systems, while retaining many original features.