The May-Stringer House, home of the Hernando Heritage Museum, is a prominent
historic site located at 601 Museum Court in Brooksville. Perched on one of the
town's highest hills, this striking four-story, 14-room Queen Anne style
Victorian "Painted Lady" features seven gables and ornate gingerbread spindle
work.
Added to the National
Register of Historic Places in 1997, it offers a deep look into local history
alongside a legendary reputation for paranormal activity. The property’s
history dates back to the mid nineteenth century when Richard Wiggins
homesteaded the site after receiving a deed through the Armed Occupation Act. In
1856 John L. May purchased the property for his family.
Following John's death from tuberculosis just three years later, his widow
Marina married Frank Saxon - a returning Civil War veteran. Together they had
two children. One died shortly after birth - and Marina died just six weeks
after giving birth to her second child with Frank - a daughter - who also died
just three years later. With such misfortune and untimely deaths, it is no
wonder that the May-Stringer House has become a favorite dewstination for
paranormal investigators. The museum has regular "ghost tours" as part of its
event schedule.
In 1903, the estate was sold to Dr. Sheldon Stringer, who expanded the house
into the multi-story Victorian structure seen today. Dr. Stringer also operated
a medical practice from the home, which eventually served as a sanatorium for
patients suffering from yellow fever and smallpox. With such a history of
misfortune and untimely deaths, it is no wonder that the May-Stringer House has
become a favorite dewstination for paranormal investigators. The museum has
regular "ghost tours" as part of its event schedule.
Today, the home is operated by the Hernando Historical Museum Association and
holds over 11,000 donated historical artifacts. The rooms are curated into
distinct thematic spaces, including an 1880s doctor’s office, a 1900s
communications room with a vintage switchboard, a military room, and preserved
Victorian-era bedrooms.
Activities & Facilities
Museum or Visitor Center
Arts/crafts vendors