San Antonio, TX — In a city renowned for its haunted history, the Hotel Gibbs stands out as a hotspot for paranormal activity. Located just steps from the site of the Battle of the Alamo, the hotel is steeped in history and ghostly legends.

Echoes of the Alamo

The Battle of the Alamo is a cornerstone of Texas history, attracting thousands of visitors annually who come to pay homage to the fallen heroes and explore the historic grounds. This deep connection to the past permeates San Antonio, and nowhere is it more evident than at the Hotel Gibbs.

Historical Discoveries

Constructed in 1909, the Gibbs building unearthed two cannons from the Battle of the Alamo during its construction. These significant artifacts were relocated to the Alamo Mission Museum and the Briscoe Western Art Museum, where they can still be seen today. However, their removal is believed to have intensified the building’s paranormal activity.

A security guard from the adjacent old U.S. Postal Office (now the Hipolito F. Garcia Building and U.S. Courthouse) reported a mysterious sighting early one morning. He saw two shadowy figures pushing a cannon from the Gibbs building to the Alamo. Initially mistaking it for a reenactment, he later discovered no such events had occurred that day. This led him to conclude that he had witnessed a residual haunting of Texas soldiers.

Ghostly Residents

Converted into a hotel in 2006, the Hotel Gibbs has retained much of its historic charm. Visitors often remark on its old-world ambiance, but some encounter more than just vintage decor. Despite the elevators being out of commission, many guests report seeing the doors closing on their own or catching glimpses of apparitions inside.

Frustrated by the apparent malfunction, guests frequently ask hotel staff about the elevators, only to learn they are not in use. These incidents suggest the presence of spectral residents.

Guests and employees alike have reported numerous paranormal occurrences. People dressed in period clothing have been seen walking the halls, passing through walls, and disappearing into rooms. Some guests have entered their rooms to find a figure already there, which vanishes upon being addressed. Employees have also heard disembodied voices and unexplained footsteps, with the front desk—where Colonel William Travis reportedly died—being particularly active.

A Charming Stay Amidst the Paranormal

Despite its haunted reputation, the Hotel Gibbs offers a charming stay in downtown San Antonio. “The room was small but cozy, with a Keurig machine for morning coffee and a stand-up shower to rinse the day away,” shared by Robert Morris. “Though there’s no pool or gym, the breakfast buffet is a nice touch. The bed wasn’t bad, and there were tons of soft pillows. It’s a great value for history buffs and those who appreciate quaint spots like this.”

The hotel’s location is another highlight. “It’s steps from the historic Alamo as well as great spots for food and nightlife. A few short blocks from the Riverwalk,” the Robert added.

As San Antonio continues to draw history enthusiasts and ghost hunters, the Hotel Gibbs remains a significant, albeit eerie, landmark. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the tales of the Hotel Gibbs are a fascinating part of San Antonio’s haunted heritage.