Halloween in Columbus with the Mill Race Monster
Everyone loves a good ghost story, and 50 years ago, Columbus, Indiana, got its very own urban legend: the Mill Race Monster (cue the spooky music).
An urban legend is typically defined as a modern myth or tale, a genre of folklore passed down through generations. But is the Mill Race Monster really just a legend?
Take a Trip back in time
1974
Nov. 1: Women report sightings; creature allegedly jumps on car.
Nov. 5: Men see figure near covered bridge; UFOs also reported.
Nov. 8: Dogcatcher Rick Duckworth spots tall, green-blanketed figure.
Nov. 12: The Republic editorial urges calm.
Mid-Nov: Park closed at night; monster hunters still searching.
Nov. 20: “Monster Roast” on city agenda; sightings fade.
Wait there's more?
But the Mill Race Monster isn’t the only scary tale within the streets of Columbus. The town has several locations rumored to be haunted. The historic Crump Theatre, once a vaudeville and opera house, is said to be one of the most haunted places in Columbus. The most famous ghost is “The Lady in Black,” who has been seen on the staircase in a period-style dress. Other claims include sightings of ghostly children and men, reports of people being touched, and hearing disembodied voices. Music has even been heard coming from the top of the staircase.
The Crump Theatre has welcomed numerous paranormal investigations over the years, and to celebrate its 135th anniversary, it will hold a paranormal conference to investigate the building. Other notable haunted spots include the Bartholomew County Historical Society, where doors have been seen opening on their own, and Viewpoint Books, where books have reportedly flown off the shelves in the basement and footsteps have been heard after hours.
Visit Columbus, IN, and delve into the paranormal activities around town. You never know—you just might catch a glimpse of something unexpected and unforgettable.
The Haunting
Open Friday and Saturday in October Non-scare & kid friendly 4pm-6pm Scare time 8pm 11pm Down the path of twisted mazes and pipes are the many zombies, ghosts, and ghouls that are…
Haunted Museum
October 27th from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm Enter through the secret door and try to escape the Other World. The night will include button eyes, jumping mice, mango smoothies & slugs…
Park of the Living Dead
October 25, from 7:00 – 8:00 Mill Race Park will be overrun with zombies. As survivors, it is your job to secure shelter, find food, train with a weapon, gain access to…
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Clessie Lyle Cummins built his first steam engine at the age of 11.