John Hays Hammond Jr., became known as the inventor of his era. He patented 400 items and invented 800 inventions. His greatest invention was the remote control. He also worked on various aspects of the invention of FM radio and radar.
Displays consist of Medieval armor with numerous items of weaponry from the era. Guests will be able to view the Hammond pipe organ up close as it sits on display in the Great Hall of the castle. The organ towers 85 feet up in the air and has 8,200 pipes. The pipes tower 8 stories above the floor that the organ resides on. The organ has the distinction of being one of the largest in the world. An extensive stained glass window collection makes visitors feel they are visiting a church or other holy place.
Within the castle is an indoor swimming pool that is surrounded by Medieval artwork. The exterior courtyard was designed to resemble a Medieval marketplace.
Certain areas of the castle are available for rent for special functions; such as weddings. The Great Hall, courtyard, side yard and Renaissance dining room are all available for advance rental. Anyone interested in renting the areas will need to make advance reservations to guarantee the date and time.
The castle does close during the winter months and is only available for special educational tours. Be sure to contact the castle museum to determine when it opens each spring. The museums number is, 978-283-2080.
In an effort to allow the castle to remain as close to its original beauty and splendor as possible, it is not handicap accessible.
Rumors have circulated that the castle and the grounds are reputed to be haunted by Hammond and his wife, Irene. An avid believer and follower of Spiritualism, Mr Hammond made known his desire to be reincarnated as a cat later in life. He and his wife had many cats during their lifetime and as each on would pass away, Mr Hammond would have it interred in the family mausoleum on the castle grounds after an elaborate funeral service.
Mr Hammond passed away in 1965.
People who visit the castle often report seeing Mr Hammond's late wife Irene gazing out of her window. Others see unknown entities.
During Halloween, the castle is open to the public as a haunted house. It is transformed into a house of fear by a local theatrical group. The haunted Halloween event is held annually. Call the museum for dates, details and times. The annual haunted house usually holds the title of, Castle of the Damned.
Sources:
http://www.hammondcastle.org/common/index.php?com=HAMM&div=AA&nav=AA&page=A16
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