When History Gets Haunted: Haunted Abilene at the Swenson House

At Bunton Roofing, we take pride in the homes and landmarks that define Abilene’s character—especially when we get to help protect them. We’re honored to count the Swenson House Historical Society among our clients, and recently had the privilege of helping address leaks in portions of the roof to protect this beautiful structure from water damage.

Even more exciting? This October, the Swenson House will take center stage at one of the city’s spookiest—and most meaningful—events: Haunted Abilene: Pirates of the Scare-ibbean – Curse of the SS Swenson.

A Haunted Voyage Awaits

Mark your calendars:

• Dates & Times
   • Friday, October 24: Full Scare, 7:00–10:00 p.m.
   • Saturday, October 25:
   – Kid’s Hour (less intense) from 5:30–6:30 p.m.
   – Full Scare: 7:00–10:00 p.m.

• Ticket Info
   • General Admission: $15 per person
   • Ages 5 and under: free when accompanied by a paying adult
   • Bonus Scare (ages 13+): an additional $5 for extra frightful thrills
   • Note: Online ticket sales end October 23, but tickets may still be purchased at the event.

• What to Expect
   The Swenson House transforms into the SS Swenson, a passenger ship that has become cursed and haunted by ghosts, pirates, sea monsters, and the spirits of those lost at sea.
   On the grounds, attendees can also enjoy food trucks, arts & crafts vendors, and lawn games to complement the haunted journey.

• Why It Matters
   All proceeds from Haunted Abilene go toward the upkeep, restoration, and preservation of the Swenson House. The Swenson House Historical Society, a volunteer-run 501(c)(3), depends on community events like this to care for this landmark.

The Story Behind the Swenson House

The Swenson House is not just a striking backdrop for haunted thrills—it’s a pillar of Abilene’s heritage.

• Built in 1910 by W.G. and Shirley Swenson on 58 acres in what was then open prairie, the home now sits upon a two-acre city block.

• In 1928, the Swensons undertook a significant remodeling, adding a brick veneer, a grape arbor, and stylistic touches tied to the Spanish Colonial Revival aesthetic.

• Architecturally, the house blends Prairie style elements (broad overhangs, horizontality) with Mission / Spanish Revival features such as clay tile roofing, window dormers, and ornamental flourishes.

• Many original interior details remain intact: cypress woodwork, stained-glass windows, grand staircase, and the elliptical dining room among them.

• The property also retains historic outbuildings—servants’ quarters and a two-story garage.

• In 1991, descendants of the Swenson family donated the home to the Abilene Preservation League (and later transitioned to the Swenson House Historical Society) to ensure its preservation for future generations.

Today, the Swenson House is used for historic home tours, weddings, receptions, meetings, and community programs.

Our Role: Protecting Heritage, One Roof at a Time

When Bunton Roofing was called in to address leaks at the Swenson House, we felt an extra sense of responsibility. Working on a historic structure presents unique challenges—matching materials, preserving architectural integrity, and working carefully around delicate features.

By ensuring the roof is watertight and secure, we help protect the original woodwork, stained glass, plaster, and finishings from deterioration. We believe that these historic treasures deserve expert care and respect—and we're proud to play a small part in safeguarding Abilene’s legacy.

At Bunton Roofing, we know protecting a roof means protecting the stories, memories, and craftsmanship beneath it. The Swenson House is one of those rare buildings that carries so much of Abilene’s past forward—and Haunted Abilene gives the community a chance to engage, celebrate, and preserve at the same time.

We hope to see you there—and if you attend, feel free to say hey. We’ll be glad to talk about how we helped keep the roof over this haunted ship afloat.