205 Nott Street: The House That Can’t Be Forgotten!

Are you ready for a wacky story? Have a seat, because I’m going to tell you about a house that can’t be forgotten! Yes, you heard that right. A house that can’t be forgotten! Let’s get into it together, because once you know about this house, you won’t be able to forget it.

What is 205 Nott Street?

Before we get into the juicy details, let’s start with the basics. What is 205 Nott Street, you ask? Well, it’s a house! I know, I know, you’re thinking, “duh!” But, it’s not just any house. It’s a house in Schenectady, New York.

Schene-what?

Schenectady! It’s a city in upstate New York that’s known for the General Electric Company and its many inventions (more on that later). Now that we know where we are, let’s talk about the history of this house.

The History of 205 Nott Street

The house at 205 Nott Street was built in 1870 by a wealthy businessman named James H. Manning. He owned a carpet manufacturing company and was one of the most successful businessmen in the city. The house was built in the Second Empire style, which was popular during the 1870s.

Second Empire?

Yes, Second Empire! It’s a style of architecture that was popular during the reign of Napoleon III in France, from 1852 to 1870. The style features a mansard roof, which is a flat or low-pitched roof with two slopes on each side. It’s a very distinctive style, and you’ll recognize it right away once you see it.

James H. Manning didn’t live in the house for long, though. He moved to New York City and sold the house to another businessman named John A. Gage. John A. Gage was also successful, but he didn’t own a carpet manufacturing company. He was involved in the railroad industry and was instrumental in developing the Schenectady Railway Company.

The Curse of 205 Nott Street

Now, here’s where things get interesting. Legend has it that John A. Gage made a deal with the devil to become successful in the railroad industry. He allegedly offered his soul in exchange for success.

The devil?

Yes, the devil! It’s a common myth that people make deals with the devil to become successful. It’s been featured in many movies and books, but we’re talking about 205 Nott Street here, so let’s focus.

After John A. Gage made this deal, strange things started happening at the house at 205 Nott Street. People reported hearing strange noises coming from the house, and some even claimed to have seen ghosts. Some say that John A. Gage never actually lived in the house because he was too afraid to stay there.

The G.E. Connection

Now, let’s talk about the General Electric Company connection. In 1892, General Electric was formed when the Edison General Electric Company merged with the Thomson-Houston Electric Company. The headquarters for the new company was located in Schenectady, New York.

Edison? Thomson-Houston?

Yes! Thomas Edison is the inventor of the incandescent light bulb, and his company, Edison General Electric, merged with the Thomson-Houston Electric Company to form General Electric. Now let’s get back to 205 Nott Street.

Several General Electric executives and employees have lived in the house over the years. It’s said that some of these people have had strange experiences in the house, as well. There are reports of lights turning on and off on their own, doors slamming shut, and footsteps heard when no one else is around.

Is It Really Haunted?

So, is the house at 205 Nott Street really haunted? There’s no way to know for sure, of course. But the stories persist, and many people believe that the house is cursed. The house has been featured in several books about haunted places in New York, and it’s a popular spot for ghost hunters.

Ghost hunters?

Yes! Ghost hunters! They’re people who investigate hauntings and try to capture evidence of ghosts on video, audio recordings, and other types of equipment. They’re usually really into the paranormal, and they’re not afraid to spend the night in haunted places like 205 Nott Street.

The House Today

So, what does the house at 205 Nott Street look like today? It’s still standing, and it’s still a Second Empire-style house. It’s been well-maintained over the years, but it’s not open to the public. It’s currently owned by a private individual who doesn’t allow visitors.

Address and Phone Number

If you’re curious about the house and want to see it for yourself, here’s the address:

205 Nott St, Schenectady, NY 12308

But, don’t bother calling for a tour. The phone number isn’t listed, and the current residents are notoriously private.

Famous People Who’ve Lived Nearby

If you’re in the Schenectady area and want to explore some other interesting places, here are a few options:

Famous Residents

• Author Kurt Vonnegut Jr. lived in Schenectady for a short time in the 1940s.
• Composer Philip Glass was born in Baltimore, but he grew up in Schenectady.
• Baseball Hall of Famer Phil Rizzuto was born in Brooklyn, but he spent many years living in Glens Falls, which is about an hour away from Schenectady.

Table of Famous Buildings in Schenectady

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! The story of the house at 205 Nott Street. Whether or not you believe in curses and ghosts, one thing is for sure – this house has a fascinating history. If you’re ever in Schenectady, make sure to drive by and take a look for yourself. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the one to figure out the mystery of 205 Nott Street.

References:

• “The Curse of 205 Nott Street” by Tom Lewis
• “Ghosts of New York State” by Randi Minetor
• “Haunted Places: The National Directory” by Dennis William Hauck