St. Louis’s Scariest House: Uncovering Bissell Mansion’s Ghostly Past

Written by David Dodge  

Nestled in the vibrant heart of St. Louis, the Bissell Mansion, a grand estate dating back to the early 1800s, has long been a source of fascination for locals and paranormal enthusiasts alike. With its rich history and whispers of ghostly happenings, this historic gem is now embarking on a thrilling new chapter. Recently featured on HGTV’s Scariest House in America, the mansion is under the passionate care of new owners Kyle and Aleha Jane Wheeler, who are dedicated to restoring its former glory while embracing its spooky reputation.

A Dream Born from a Missed Opportunity

In 2018, Kyle and Aleha Jane Wheeler were drawn to the Bissell Mansion for its wildly popular murder mystery dinner theater, a beloved attraction that brought the estate’s history to life. However, securing tickets proved nearly impossible due to overwhelming demand. “They were always sold out,” Kyle shared in an interview with FOX 2. When the mansion closed its doors in 2020 and was later listed for sale, the couple saw a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. “We thought, ‘If we can’t get tickets, why not just buy it?’ It’ll be a fun project to fix up,” Kyle recalled with a laugh. On October 18, 2024, they officially became the owners of the sprawling 6,000-acre property, eager to breathe new life into its historic walls.

From the moment they stepped inside, the Wheelers felt a deep connection to the mansion. Its creaking floors, ornate details, and storied past captivated them. But they soon discovered that the property came with more than just architectural charm—unexplained phenomena were part of the package.

Ghostly Encounters: The Man in the Window

As the Wheelers began the daunting task of renovating the mansion, strange occurrences started to surface. While working on the property, contractors reported a chilling sight: a mysterious figure appearing in one of the mansion’s upper windows. “They came running inside, asking, ‘Who’s that guy in the window? Did you let someone in?’” Kyle recounted. A thorough search of the sprawling estate revealed no one, yet the workers insisted they saw a tall man dressed in black staring down at them. According to the Wheelers, this particular window has become a recurring hotspot for ghostly sightings, adding to the mansion’s eerie mystique. For those working on the renovations, it was a stark reminder that the Bissell Mansion might be home to more than just its living occupants.

Echoes of the Past: The Vanishing Wine Glasses

The mansion’s haunted reputation stretches back decades, with stories that have become part of St. Louis folklore. Kyle shared tales from the 1970s, when the mansion housed a bustling restaurant. Former employees reported bizarre incidents, such as wine glasses mysteriously disappearing from the bar. When the glasses were eventually found, they were inexplicably shattered. “No one could figure out what was happening,” Kyle noted. “They just assumed it was something paranormal.” These unsettling events, often occurring under the cover of night, have fueled the mansion’s spooky legacy. While Kyle remains unfazed by the eerie occurrences, Aleha Jane admits to feeling uneasy. “Whenever we’re in the house, she’s right by my side,” Kyle said with a smile. “If I leave the room, she’s right behind me.”

A Vision for the Future

The Wheelers view themselves as stewards of this historic treasure, with ambitious plans to restore the Bissell Mansion to its former grandeur. They hope to revive the beloved murder mystery dinner theater, but with a modern twist that sets it apart from its previous incarnation. Additionally, they plan to transform the second floor into guest accommodations, offering brave visitors the chance to spend the night in one of America’s most haunted homes. Their efforts have already caught the attention of HGTV, with the mansion featured on Season 2, Episode 2 of Scariest House in America, airing on September 26, 2025.

Restoring a property of this scale is no small feat, requiring significant time and resources. However, the Wheelers are hopeful that a potential $150,000 prize from the HGTV show could accelerate their restoration plans. For Kyle, the mansion is more than just a project—it’s a community treasure. “People stop by when we’re working in the yard and share their memories of this place,” he said. “It feels like the Bissell Mansion belongs to everyone, and that brings me so much joy.”

A Haunted Legacy Worth Preserving

The Bissell Mansion is more than a building; it’s a living piece of St. Louis’s soul, where history and mystery intertwine. As Kyle and Aleha Jane Wheeler pour their hearts into its restoration, they’re not just preserving brick and mortar—they’re safeguarding a legacy that has captivated generations. Whether you’re a skeptic intrigued by its architectural beauty or a believer drawn to its ghostly tales, the Bissell Mansion offers an unforgettable experience. Its creaking halls and shadowy corners invite visitors to step into a world where the past lingers, whispering stories of those who came before. With the Wheelers at the helm, this haunted landmark is poised to shine once more, ensuring its place as a cherished destination for years to come.

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