William Payne
Summary
William Payne is believed to be the spirit haunting Alexander's Castle at Fort Worden State Park in Port Townsend, Washington. Known as 'The Castle Caretaker,' Payne was reportedly a tenant and maintenance caretaker for Oscar Klockers and Reverend John Alexander. His life came to a tragic end on December 23, 1892, when he accidentally drowned in the basement rainwater cistern of the castle. This incident has led to his classification as a residual haunt, with his spirit thought to be tied to the traumatic circumstances of his death. Over the years, visitors and paranormal investigators have reported various phenomena attributed to Payne, including unexplained noises and a feeling of being watched, particularly in the basement area. While some folklore suggests that Payne's spirit is protective of the castle, others describe his presence as merely residual, replaying the moments leading up to his untimely demise.