Spooky Lancaster!
Lancaster County is a unique area of the country. One minute, you could be driving through the hustle and bustle of the city, and the next, you could be taking in the fresh country air. Lancaster is both a popular place to live and a sought-after destination to visit. From the Amish community to various shops, restaurants, and events, there’s a little something here for everyone. With its long history, dating back to its founding in 1729, Lancaster also has its fair share of haunted attractions. With the spooky holiday approaching, I thought it would be fun to explore some of these intriguing places.
Fulton Theatre
Fulton Theatre, named after Robert Fulton for his commercialization of the steamboat, is not only one of the oldest theaters in Lancaster County, but it’s also one of the oldest in the entire country. Built in 1852 by Christopher Hager and designed by Samuel Loan, the theater was meant to serve as a community center for concerts, lectures, meetings, and theatrical events. Before its construction, the site was home to Lancaster’s prerevolutionary jail and was the location of the infamous Paxton Boys massacre, where the Paxton Boys gang murdered the last 14 Conestoga Indians who were being held there for protection. Over the years, there have been countless reports of hauntings throughout the theater, including sightings of the ‘Woman in White,’ a ghostly apparition of former stage actress Marie Cahill, whom many actors and stagehands have reported seeing. Others have claimed to witness an apparition known as “The Whistler,” who is said to wear a light-colored suit, brown shoes, and a straw hat. This spirit often whistles or claps, causing actors to miss their lines during performances.
Bube’s Brewery
With a history dating back to the 1800s, Bube’s Brewery has a rich heritage that has led many to believe it may be home to a few lingering spirits. Over the years, both staff and customers have reported strange sightings and encounters, including the appearance of a woman dressed in a long, flowing gown, who has often been seen floating through the art gallery. In addition to her, patrons have also claimed to witness the apparition of a man, further enhancing the brewery's reputation as a hotspot for paranormal activity. The tales of these figures have sparked curiosity and fascination, drawing in visitors eager to experience the mysterious atmosphere for themselves. Bube’s Brewery's history and supernatural associations garnered significant attention when it was featured on the popular television show Ghost Hunters.
Franklin & Marshall College
Built in the 1850s, Franklin & Marshall College's Old Main Building stands as a unique architectural landmark with a wealth of history. Interestingly, this historic structure was reportedly constructed on the site of Lancaster’s infamous “Gallows Hill,” where criminals faced execution following their trials. Numerous reports of paranormal activity have surfaced over the years, piquing the interest of both students and ghost enthusiasts alike. One recurring phenomenon is the tolling of the bell, which has been reported to ring out on its own at night. This occurrence has led some to speculate about the building’s past and whether the ringing is caused by the spirits of those who were executed at Gallows Hill. There have also been reports of unexplained noises, shadowy figures, and cold spots throughout the main building. These sightings have made the college an attractive destination for tourists interested in the supernatural. These are just a few locations throughout Lancaster with a long history of supernatural happenings.
With so many old buildings scattered across the county, it’s not uncommon to hear stories of unexplained sightings and eerie sounds that continue to perplex people to this day. Whether you’re drawn to tales of unusual sightings or eerie whispers, Lancaster’s rich history continues to attract and amaze both tourists and locals alike. Whether you were out to eat or showing a house, have you ever encountered any otherworldly phenomena in the area?
Facts, opinions and information expressed in the Blog represent the work of the author and are believed to be accurate, but are not guaranteed. The Lancaster County Association of Realtors is not liable for any potential errors, omissions or outdated information. If errors are noted within a post, please notify the Association. Posts represent the author's opinion and are not necessarily the opinion of the Association.
