Heritage Park – Is it Haunted

Nestled in the heart of San Diego, **Heritage Park’s Victorian Village** offers a journey back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This eclectic collection of preserved Victorian-era homes is a hidden gem for history enthusiasts and architecture admirers, all within walking distance of the lively Old Town San Diego Historic State Park.

A Step Back In Time

Heritage Park is a unique historic district dedicated to preserving San Diego’s architectural history. Established in 1971, the park serves as a sanctuary for Victorian-era structures that might have otherwise been lost to urban development. Today, it features **seven beautifully restored houses**, each with a unique story to tell about the people and communities that shaped San Diego during its formative years, but is there a darker side to the park?

Nena and Eric went to explore and investigate the Victorian Village as rumors have been circulating the internet that more and more activity has been discovered there.

Is this because all of the homes were moved from their original location and brought together?
Was this because of rumors that people were practicing witchcraft and rituals on the grounds in the park?
Was this because this park is so close to the famed and Haunted “Whaley House?”

Highlights of the Victorian Village 6 Houses and 1 Temple

1. Senlis Cottage (1896)
Built by Eugene Senlis, is a perfect example of late-Victorian folk architecture. Its simple design and modest size reflect the lifestyles of working-class families of the era.

2. Bushyhead House (1887) 
Named after Edward Wilkerson Bushyhead, a Cherokee journalist and San Diego sheriff, this house is an excellent representation of Italianate architecture. It once served as a residence for Bushyhead and his family and later became a commercial building in Old Town.

3. Christian House (1889)
This Queen Anne-style home features distinctive architectural details, such as ornate woodwork and decorative shingles. Its vibrant colors make it one of the most eye-catching structures in the park.

Throughout our investigation there, something about the Christian House kept calling us, meaning the windows although closed kept appearing like someone was looking back, and in 1 single frame our EMF Meter went off and took a photo and in only 1 frame was a shadow in the window. The garden and trail were full of EVP activity but be careful, coyote’s lurk just up the hill.

4. McConaughy House (1887)
Originally a private residence, the McConaughy House now operates as a visitor center and gift shop. Its Stick-Eastlake design, characterized by intricate wooden trim and steep gables, is a classic example of the era.

This is the one house that we know is open to the public, but during our investigation the house was closed and there were no cars in the area. So, what was that figure that we saw dashing through the hallway?

5. Sherman-Gilbert House (1887)
One of the most famous houses in the park, the Sherman-Gilbert House, boasts elaborate gingerbread detailing and a wraparound porch. It once hosted renowned performers such as pianist Anna Pavlova and ballerina Isadora Duncan.

Is that a face in the window? During our investigation there is clear evidence that someone is looking back at us, except, the house is closed and locked and no one is inside.

6. Burton House (1893) 
This simple, wood-framed house reflects the practical sensibilities of middle-class homeowners in the late 19th century. Its unassuming design contrasts with some of the more ornate structures in the park.

Tales have noted that if you “knock” on the door on the outside… you will hear a “knock” returned from the inside. Although we did not have that experience, this place gives you an unsettled feeling.

7. Temple Beth Israel (1889)
The only non-residential structure in Heritage Park, Temple Beth Israel is San Diego’s first synagogue. Its Gothic Revival design and historical significance make it a standout of both beauty and creepy.

During our investigation, this was a location that had a lot of EVP activity and changes in temperature. We still cannot explain the black headless creature that was filmed walking backwards out the front of the Temple, if you know what that is please let us know.

Next time you’re in San Diego, step back in time and immerse yourself in the unsettling charm and eeriness of Heritage Park. It’s a journey that is filled with things that we were not able to explain.

What have you discovered at The Victorian Village in Heritage Park at Old Town San Diego, Ca.?