by Angie Pollock

Created on: October 06, 2009   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Located in Delray Beach, Florida, The Colony Hotel is a historical landmark that dates back to the mid 1920s. As for the history of the building, there may be some misinformation available as to the original builders and/or owner.

According to Greg Jenkin's book, "Ghostly Legends and Haunted Folklore", the building was constructed and founded by father and son, Charles and George Bowden and the hotel originally catered to Northern guests who came to the area to escape the cold winters of the north.

But for locals and those who have had the pleasure of seeing the The Colony Hotel firsthand and the pictures hanging inside will tell you that the hotel was designed by Martin L. Hampton. The hotel was originally known as Hotel Alterep after its first owner, Albert T. Repp.

Its sister hotel located in Maine is also known for its popularity with elite groups of people. However, there are many differences between the hotels, one being the tale of ghosts that allegedly walk the floors of the Delray Beach location.

Even today, The Colony Hotel in Delray is reminiscent of the 1920s era. Some of the furniture inside the rooms and suites are original pieces from the 1920s which was purchased from the John Wanamaker Store in Philadelphia. The three-story hotel was once only open seasonally but is now open year-round. During its short downtime during the summer, locals often remarked at strange happenings seen through windows from the outside. But even when the hotel is open and visitors are walking the halls, tales of apparitions and spirits have surrounded this unique landmark.

The stories of dark and ghostly figures have been connected to The Colony Hotel for many years. The ghosts are said to be that of Charles and George Bowden - the constructors of the building according to Jenkin's book. Witnesses of the figures state that Charlie (the father) is bolder than his son and will show himself more often. Charlie's granddaughter, Justina Boughton, has made several claims of seeing a figure walk by her or seeing reflections in glass.

Some of the events occurred while The Colony was closed over the summer. Passersby would notice strange sightings through the windows and would often call local law enforcement to investigate. Lights, figures, and even music have been reported to come from within the hotel when no one was inside. No evidence has been found to account where the jazzy 1920s music originated. Staff of the hotel has also reported strange voices and the most unsettling

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