Snohomish, Washington is one of the most historic and haunted locations in the state. We recently had the pleasure of having a private tour of this historic and ghost filled structure originally built in 1900.
1st floor bar
After a delicious meal Rebecca Caden, General Manager of the Oxford Saloon, started our tour of the building by leading us to the basement. Used for parties and other events, the basement of the building has two pool tables, a full bar and seating scattered around. Rebecca shared with us some of the history of the place. After a time as a store, the saloon opened and immediately became one of the most notorious joints in town. It even was a speakeasy during prohibition, with a basement entrance from a tunnel.
The basement bar, where the black caped figure was seen
One of the resident ghosts is a chap named Henry. Henry was a policeman and tried to break up a fight resulting in his death by stabbing. He died on the bottom step of the basement stairway, and is known to stand behind the bar talking to folks. Rebecca shared with us that she personally does not like to be in the basement, and goes there a little as possible. She has seen a large black shape with a black flowing cape down there. The son of the owner finally became a believer when he too saw this figure the same time as Rebecca.
The infamous doll locked safely (?) in her case
Above the main floor bar is an old antique doll in a glass case. This doll has a creepy history. Ready? Many people have bought the doll and all soon returned it to the person or antique store where they got it. Rebecca says she has determined that the doll does cause chaos and is best kept in the case and inside. She once took the doll without a case from the upstairs and slipped outside and then back into the main floor. There was a large and happy crowd. When the doll came into the room conversation ceased, everybody felt bad emotions and said “what has happened”. The doll has been in the case ever since.
At the top of the 2nd floor stair
Upstairs rooms
The upstairs is equally filled with other-worldly beings. It was once a thriving brothel, and the Madam of the business still walks the upstairs hall and the many rooms. The rooms are currently used for special events, and are beautifully furnished. One of the furnishings, however, has a tragic story. The claw foot bathtub was the location where a young lady’s body was found. Stories say she fell down the stairs (or was pushed) and placed in the tub to make it look like suicide.
On the left is our tour guide, Rebecca Caden
Rebecca shared other instances of strange happenings. One time after a band was done playing on the stage on the 1st floor one of the ghosts had fun with the speakers. It played music and when they tried to turn it off, it wouldn’t. Unplugged from power, it still played. In addition, for a while there was a jukebox in the bar. The ghosts had too much fun with it as well, so it was removed.
Upstairs, former brothel room
Original double sliding doors
It was very interesting to hear of all of the paranormal happenings at The Oxford. Also interesting is the fact that there have been several paranormal investigations held on the site. Rebecca shares that investigations are still allowed, however the Oxford does not want anyone to try to remove any of the ghosts. She says that they are happy and will move on when they are ready. Rebecca shares that some employees like the basement, others prefer the upstairs rooms.
Sign from the 2nd floor
By all means visit the Oxford Saloon in Snohomish. Not only is there a fascinating history and some ghostly residents but also great food and good times. Live music is common on the weekends. Private parties can be accommodated. The main floor is family friendly. Here is The Oxford’s website.
