Not every haunted house is scary. The lingering presence or energy felt by Nicole Westhoff in the recently renovated Dr. Williamson House at 701 E. Vandeveer St. in Burnet is peaceful. Also known as the Healing House, Westhoff’s property was once owned by Dr. Jason Luther Williamson (1878-1944), who treated returning World War II soldiers in his home.

“The original owner’s grandparents were from Louisiana, so he incorporated some of their traditions when he built the house,” Westhoff said. “The porch was painted blue to ward off evil spirits, which may be one reason the house feels so peaceful.”

At some point, Dr. Williamson built an unusual rock wall around the house, also to ward off spirits. The rocks all contain crystals and are various types of stone known for protective properties,

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