A Tragic Demise at the Wagener Building
When it comes to Charleston history, the F.W. Wagener Building holds a much more prominent position than its past uses as a brewery or a storage facility might imply. Its presence also symbolizes some of the darkest and most chilling aspects of Charleston’s haunted past.
While several stories circulate about the Wagener structure, the story of the young associate, George Poirier, is probably the most sinister.
Upon the severe downturn of the cotton and fertilizer businesses in the South after the Civil War, Poirier found himself in desperate financial straits. His family had built its fortune over several generations of agricultural trading. However, Poirier lost it all after a particularly unlucky weevil infestation that destroyed his crops.
Since Poirier could no longer maintain the lavish lifestyle his family expected, he saw no other option than to commit suicide, which he did in one of the Wagener Building’s attic office spaces. Looking out at the ships on the harbor, bringing in his doomed wares, he pulled up a captain’s chair and hung himself.
The next day, a newsboy spotted his corpse hanging in the window and alerted the town to his tragic demise. Since then, reports of softly swinging shadows and inexplicable cold drafts are regular at the Wagener. Particularly by customers who dare venture onto the third floor.
Haunted Charleston, SC
If you think you’re ready to experience more such fascinating ghost lore, join US Ghost Adventures on a haunted tour of Charleston. The F.W. Wagener Building is just one of the many haunted spots scattered throughout the historic neighborhoods of this southern port city.
About US Ghost Adventures
Since 2013, US Ghost Adventures has offered entertaining, historic, and authentic ghost tours of America’s most haunted cities. We deliver fun yet honest accounts of hauntings across the nation for curious people of all ages. Our ghost stories are based on historical research, but that doesn’t mean they won’t send a chill down your spine.
This video gives you a small taste of what you might experience on your ghost tour — subscribe to our YouTube Channel for more.
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