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Carterville Manor: 130 Years of Haunting

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/22/carterville-manor-130-years-of-haunting.html
  Published in House and Home on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 22:40 GMT by syracuse.com
      Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

DeWitt, NY - February 23rd, 2026 - For over 130 years, Carterville Manor has stood as a silent sentinel outside Syracuse, New York, accumulating not just history, but a reputation as one of the most actively haunted locations in Central New York. The stately home, built in 1886, isn't merely a landmark; it's a generational chronicle of the unexplained, currently overseen by John Diroff, the third member of his family to experience its peculiar phenomena.

Carterville Manor's story begins with its original owner, William Carter, a prominent figure in the burgeoning railroad industry of the late 19th century. Carter's success allowed him to commission the impressive manor on Woodchuck Lane, envisioning a grand family estate. However, his time within its walls was cut tragically short. Carter's unexpected death within the home quickly birthed the local lore that continues to swirl around the property today.

"The stories started almost immediately after my great-grandfather passed," explains John Diroff, the current steward of the manor. "Unexplained noises, objects moving, people catching glimpses of... something. It wasn't just a one-time thing. It's been consistent throughout the years."

What sets Carterville Manor apart isn't simply the presence of reported paranormal activity, but the longevity and consistency of these experiences, spanning three generations of the Diroff family. While many haunted locations boast fleeting encounters, Carterville Manor offers a continuous narrative of the unusual, documented through family accounts, paranormal investigations, and countless local stories. John's father and grandfather both shared similar experiences, fostering a unique familial connection to the otherworldly.

The manor's reputation has naturally attracted the attention of paranormal investigators. Over the years, numerous teams have descended upon Carterville Manor, equipped with an array of technology--EMF readers, thermal cameras, and EVP recorders--attempting to capture evidence of the spirits said to reside within. Several investigations have been featured on popular paranormal television shows, further cementing the manor's place in the public imagination. While conclusive 'proof' remains elusive, investigators consistently report significant anomalies within the house, often correlating with areas associated with William Carter and other historical occupants.

Beyond professional investigations, Carterville Manor has become a cornerstone of local ghost tours. Guides lead groups through the house and grounds, recounting the documented history and chilling tales passed down through generations. The tours have become a popular attraction, drawing visitors from across the region eager to experience the manor's spooky ambiance and perhaps even catch a glimpse of its spectral residents.

John Diroff, however, seems remarkably unfazed by the paranormal activity. He doesn't describe the manor as 'haunted', preferring the term 'different'. He has embraced the manor's legacy, willingly sharing his family's experiences with researchers and enthusiasts. "It's a unique situation," he states. "You don't find many houses with a three-generation history of this kind of thing happening." His open attitude has fostered a collaborative environment, allowing for ongoing research and documentation of the phenomena.

The nature of the alleged haunting remains a mystery. Some speculate that William Carter himself is the primary resident spirit, unable to rest due to the abruptness of his death or unfinished business. Others suggest that the land itself may be imbued with energy, attracting or creating paranormal activity. Local historians have also uncovered stories of a tragic accident on the property prior to the manor's construction, suggesting a possible connection to earlier events.

Despite the numerous investigations and stories, the true source of Carterville Manor's enduring mystery remains elusive. However, for the Diroff family, and for the many who have visited its halls, the manor represents more than just a house; it's a living testament to the enduring power of the unexplained, a place where the past refuses to stay silent. Those interested in learning more about Carterville Manor and potentially experiencing its unique atmosphere can find further information at [ http://www.cartervillemanor.com/ ].

Location: 5985 Woodchuck Lane, DeWitt, NY