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<h1><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The Haunted History of Middleton Tavern, Annapolis, Maryland</span></h1><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Nestled in the heart of historic Annapolis, Maryland,&nbsp;</span><strong>Middleton Tavern</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">&nbsp;is more than just a charming spot for dinner or a drink—it’s a site steeped in centuries of history and, according to legend, haunted by restless spirits. Dating back to&nbsp;</span><strong>1750</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">, this colonial-era tavern has served as an inn, general store, meat market, and even a ferry stop. Over the years, tales of unexplained phenomena have made it one of the most talked-about haunted sites in Annapolis.</span></p><h2><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">A Tavern With Deep Roots</span></h2><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Horatio Middleton opened the tavern in the mid-18th century, catering to sailors and travelers who docked along the Annapolis waterfront. The building has seen its share of renovations and fires, including significant restorations in the 1970s, but its historic charm remains intact. With its centuries-long history, it’s no surprise that stories of lingering spirits have become part of its lore.</span></p><h2><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The Ghosts of Middleton Tavern</span></h2><h3><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Roland Johnstone: The Mischievous Colonial Spirit</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The most famous ghost at Middleton Tavern goes by the name&nbsp;</span><strong>Roland Johnstone</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">. Described as a middle-aged man in Revolutionary-era clothing, Roland is known for his mischievous (and sometimes malevolent) behavior. Staff and visitors report the smell of cigar smoke appearing out of nowhere, objects being knocked off shelves, furniture moving on its own, and even electronic devices acting strangely.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Some have seen Roland crossing the bar in full colonial attire, vanishing before reaching the other side. The second floor and upper areas of the tavern are rumored to be particularly active, with some staff too frightened to venture upstairs alone.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Shadowy Figures and Other Entities</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">In addition to Roland, guests and employees have reported seeing shadowy figures gliding through the dining rooms, and lanterns mysteriously flipped upside down. Tables and chairs have reportedly moved on their own, adding to the tavern’s reputation as a hotspot for paranormal activity.</span></p><h3><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">George Schmidt: The Tragic Tale</span></h3><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Another ghost tied to Middleton Tavern may be&nbsp;</span><strong>George Schmidt</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">, a man who was allegedly killed outside the tavern during an argument in 1876. Some lore suggests that Schmidt’s spirit, or perhaps Roland himself, is responsible for certain disturbances, particularly the more aggressive poltergeist-like activity.</span></p><h2><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Paranormal Experiences</span></h2><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Staff and tour guides have shared numerous accounts of unexplained events. Some nights, coffee is spilled in the upstairs kitchen without explanation, silverware moves on its own, faucets turn on and off, and lights flicker mysteriously. Guests and employees alike report a sense of being watched, and some have even felt phantom touches. Many of these incidents occur in the early morning hours when the tavern is quiet and the shadows long.</span></p><h2><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Why Middleton Tavern Captures the Imagination</span></h2><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Middleton Tavern’s long and varied history, combined with these reports of supernatural activity, has made it a fixture on Annapolis ghost tours. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the stories of Roland, shadowy figures, and unexplained disturbances add an eerie charm to this historic landmark. Its haunted reputation is as enduring as its colonial architecture, making a visit here an experience that blends history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural.</span></p>