Deep in the woods of Chesterfield, New Hampshire, lies a mysterious and enchanting remnant of the past: the ruins of Madame Sherri’s castle. Its crumbling stone staircase, shrouded in vibrant foliage during autumn, stands as a silent testament to a bygone era of glamour and eccentricity. This magical destination attracts hikers, photographers, and history enthusiasts eager to uncover the story of the flamboyant woman behind the castle and the life she led amidst the quiet of the New Hampshire wilderness.
The Life of Madame Sherri: Glamour and Eccentricity
Madame Antoinette Sherri was born in France in 1878 and dazzled audiences as a singer and dancer in Parisian music halls before setting her sights on America. In 1911, she moved to New York City, where she quickly became a sought-after costume designer for the vaudeville stage. Her couture designs and flair for drama earned her fame among New York’s elite, and she reveled in her reputation as a bold and unconventional personality.
As her career flourished, Madame Sherri sought an escape from the fast pace of city life. She fell in love with a secluded piece of land in Chesterfield, New Hampshire, where she envisioned a retreat as unique and extravagant as herself. Her “castle” would become a summer haven for lavish parties, creativity, and the company of artists, actors, and socialites.
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The Construction and Heyday of the Castle
Madame Sherri’s castle was built in the 1920s and was unlike anything the region had ever seen. Despite being called a castle, it was more of a whimsical mansion with dramatic stone staircases, arched windows, grand fireplaces, and ornate details that hinted at her European roots. Perched atop a hill and surrounded by dense forest, it was a private paradise for those lucky enough to receive an invitation.
The castle hosted extravagant gatherings that became the stuff of local legend. Guests danced, dined, and drank late into the night, often entertained by Madame Sherri herself, who was known for her flamboyant outfits and larger-than-life personality. Her cream-colored Packard touring car became a familiar sight on Chesterfield’s winding roads, as she traveled back and forth between the castle and the nearby towns, always dressed to impress.
The Fall of the Castle
By the late 1930s, the glitz and glamour of Madame Sherri’s castle began to fade. Financial struggles caught up with her, and maintaining such a grand estate became impossible. The castle was abandoned and left to the mercy of time and the elements. Vandals further stripped it of its former glory, and in 1962, a fire ravaged what was left, leaving only the iconic stone staircase and a few foundations.
Despite its decline, the castle’s ruins retained an air of mystery and elegance. Locals shared stories of Madame Sherri’s eccentricity and whispered about her ghost wandering the staircase. She passed away in 1965, leaving behind not just the ruins of her castle, but a legacy that continues to intrigue and inspire.
Exploring Madame Sherri’s Forest Today
Today, the ruins of Madame Sherri’s castle are preserved within a 513-acre forest named in her honor. The freestanding stone staircase, though partially collapsed in 2021, remains the centerpiece of the site, drawing visitors from near and far. The surrounding forest offers a peaceful retreat for hikers, with trails that weave through towering trees, past quiet ponds, and up scenic overlooks.
One popular route is the Ann Stokes and Daniels Mountain Loops, a 4.4-mile hike that begins at the castle ruins. The trail takes you through lush woods, past Indian Pond—a perfect spot for a rest or a swim—and up to Daniels Mountain, where the Moon’s Edge Overlook provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk, the trails offer something for everyone.
The forest is particularly enchanting in the fall, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, carpeting the trails in autumn hues. In winter, the ruins take on a haunting beauty, with snow highlighting the intricate stonework of the staircase.
Legends and Ghost Stories
The ruins of Madame Sherri’s castle are not just a place of historical interest—they’re also steeped in local lore. Visitors often claim to feel an otherworldly presence as they wander the site, and some even report seeing the ghost of Madame Sherri herself, elegantly dressed and sitting on the stone staircase. The combination of the castle’s mysterious past and its remote, forested location makes it a magnet for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers.
Whether or not you believe in ghosts, there’s no denying the castle’s ability to spark the imagination. Its history, combined with its dramatic setting, creates an atmosphere that feels almost magical.
Preserving History and Nature
Thanks to the efforts of the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, Madame Sherri’s Forest has been preserved for future generations to enjoy. The organization acquired the land in 1996, ensuring that the ruins and surrounding trails would remain accessible to the public. Their work has helped protect not just the natural beauty of the forest, but also the cultural significance of Madame Sherri’s castle.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the site by staying on marked trails and refraining from climbing on the ruins. By doing so, they help preserve this unique piece of history for years to come.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Madame Sherri Forest, parking is available off Gulf Road in Chesterfield. A short walk from the parking area brings you to the ruins and the start of the hiking trails. Maps and trail information are provided at a kiosk near the parking lot, making it easy to navigate the forest.
The best time to visit depends on your preferences. Fall offers stunning foliage, while spring and summer bring vibrant greenery and blooming wildflowers. Winter visits are also popular, though hikers should be prepared for icy conditions.
Don’t forget to bring a camera—the castle ruins and surrounding forest are a photographer’s dream. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the ghostly Madame Sherri.
Conclusion: A Walk Through History
Madame Sherri’s castle ruins are more than just a hiking destination—they’re a window into the past, a place where history, nature, and mystery converge. As you climb the crumbling staircase or wander the forest trails, you’ll feel a connection to the glamour and creativity that once defined this unique spot. Whether you’re drawn by the history, the natural beauty, or the whispers of ghostly tales, a visit to Madame Sherri Forest is an unforgettable experience.
