The Story of the Haunted Odd Fellows Home

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The Odd Fellows Home, now known as Belvoir Winery, has a rich yet eerie history that dates back to the early 20th century.

Established by the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (I.O.O.F.) on a 240-acre farm in Liberty, Missouri, the complex was designed to care for members of the fraternity, as well as their widows and orphans.

This self-sufficient community included several facilities: an orphanage, a nursing home, a hospital, and a school, all built in the distinctive Jacobethan Revival architectural style.

The I.O.O.F. had a unique tradition of caring for those in need, a concept that was reflected in the construction of the Odd Fellows Home. At its peak, the facility offered a safe haven for hundreds, including children who had lost their families and elderly members who needed long-term care.

The Home was largely self-sufficient, operating a farm that produced a variety of goods to support its residents. During the Great Depression, the population swelled as impoverished families sought better living conditions for their children.

Throughout the 20th century, the facility provided education, healthcare, and a sense of community. The administration ensured that children received quality schooling, with many even progressing to high school or college—a rare opportunity for orphans at the time.

However, by the 1950s, the need for such large-scale homes declined due to the advent of modern social programs and local care facilities. Eventually, the Odd Fellows Home ceased its original operations, and the site was mostly abandoned, except for a few parts still in use.

Today, Belvoir Winery has transformed part of the historic property into a welcoming inn and event space. The restored orphanage building is the centerpiece of the winery, where visitors can enjoy wine tastings, overnight stays, and weddings.

Despite the beautiful renovations, the site has retained its reputation for paranormal activity. The remaining abandoned buildings, including the old hospital and nursing home, add an unsettling backdrop to the otherwise serene surroundings.

Numerous ghost stories have emerged over the years, with reports of mysterious sounds, sightings, and even televised investigations by shows like Ghost Adventures and Kindred Spirits.

Guests and staff alike have encountered unexplainable occurrences, such as flickering lights, the sound of footsteps in empty hallways, and even apparitions of children and adults believed to be former residents. One of the most curious artifacts is "George," a skeleton once used in the Odd Fellows' initiation rituals, still on display at the winery.

Interested in more spooky history from Odd Fellows? See the below video from the Travel Channel, if you dare...

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This Week in the KC Yesterday Scavenger Hunt

The Boley Building

Built in 1909, the Boley Building was one of the first in the world to use a revolutionary curtain-wall design, with glass walls suspended from a steel frame, paving the way for modern skyscrapers.

Rialto Building

This 113+ year old building recently reopened as the AC Hotel Downtown after undergoing an extensive $73M renovation by Marriott.

This Week's Featured Home

5930 Oakwood Rd, Mission Hills, KS 66208​
Built in 1925 · $6,750,000
Listing/Photos Courtesy - Trent Gallagher, ReeceNichols // Nate Sheets Photography

Step into this reimagined English Tudor, where classic elegance meets contemporary luxury. Completely renovated, this stunning home offers the rare chance to experience new construction in Kansas City's prestigious Mission Hills.

Every detail reflects superior craftsmanship, from custom European white oak floors to bespoke cabinetry. A four-story, museum-inspired staircase serves as a striking architectural centerpiece, illuminated by natural light.

Perfect for entertaining, the state-of-the-art kitchen features a mosaic basalt tile wine cellar, Dacor wine dispenser, built-in Miele coffee system, and a sleek walnut bar top. Outdoors, a heated pool, pizza oven, and barbecue grill create an ideal setting for alfresco dining.

Thanks for reading, Reader!

What do you want to learn about next? Reply and let me know!

-Joe

ps: some very interesting Halloween decorations on the Plaza in 1933...

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