Monte Cristo Homestead Haunting

Monte Cristo Homestead in Junee, New South Wales, holds the title of Australia’s most haunted house. Built in 1885, the elegant Victorian manor witnessed multiple tragic deaths and harbors spirits that continue to manifest.

History

Christopher William Crawley built Monte Cristo as a testament to his prosperity. The homestead dominated Junee from its hilltop position. After Crawley’s death in 1910, his widow Elizabeth became increasingly reclusive, remaining in the house until her death in 1933.

The house fell into disrepair before the Ryan family purchased and restored it in 1963.

The Deaths

Multiple deaths occurred at Monte Cristo. A maid dropped or was pushed from the balcony. A baby fell or was dropped down the stairs. A stable boy burned to death—some say deliberately. A mentally ill man was kept chained in a cottage on the grounds for decades.

Whether all these deaths occurred as reported is debated, but the house’s association with tragedy is well documented.

The Haunting

The ghost of Elizabeth Crawley is most frequently reported, particularly in her former bedroom and on the landing. A ghostly white glow appears in the chapel. The stable area produces sounds of crying and the smell of burning.

Visitors report being touched, feeling watched, and experiencing overwhelming dread. Equipment malfunctions frequently. The current owners accept the ghosts as housemates.

Assessment

Monte Cristo combines documented tragedy with decades of paranormal reports. Australia’s most haunted house has earned its reputation through consistent activity witnessed by thousands of visitors.