Irvington Indiana
Irvington is a historic neighborhood located on the eastside of Indianapolis, which is known for its haunting history. The neighborhood itself was founded in 1870 by Jacob Julian and Sylvester Johnson. The two founders named the town after author Washington Irving, the writer of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Why? Because they both thought it looked like (or could look like) Sleepy Hollow. Presumably, with less headless horsemen.
But the town isn't spooky on name alone. There are several haunted sites, like the Benton House. And, if you're a true crime reader, you may associate Irvington with H.H. Holmes. For decades strange stories have swirled in the streets of the historic neighborhood. It's said that you can see women dressed historically floating about Irving Circle Park. Or, if you want something a bit more sensory it is said you can catch puffs of cigar smoke seemingly from nowhere.
Some of the most notable locations in the neighborhood are:
Irving Circle Park, as mentioned above.
Masonic Lodge Number 666 is bound to come with a reputation. This lodge is often the starting point for Irvington's many ghost tours.
The Irving Theatre, built and founded in 1913. It iis said you can often hear disembodied voices and there is a strange energy from the stage of Elvis' last performance before his death.
The H.H. Holmes Cottage would be something you just passed by if you didn't know better. But, 114 S Good Avenue was once a short term rental for H.H. Holmes. While never proven, it is believed that Howie Pietzel, 10 at the time of his death, was dismembered and buried in the backyard. While this hasn't been proven, teeth and bones that are believed to be Howie's have been discovered in the fireplace. Interestingly enough, the house was moved from 5811 Julian Avenue after the murder during a land deal.
Beginning in 1947, the neighborhood has embraced its spooky side with a week-long Halloween celebration that brings together thousands of people every year. To this day, it is one of the most-attended Halloween celebrations in America!
Thanks to Michelle Codarmaz-Booth for this blogstonishing suggestion!
Masonic Lodge 666, Irvington Lodge, Washington Street - US40 Irvington, Indiana. This work has been released into the public domain by its author, Kcflood. This applies worldwide.
