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| PATHWAY PAST OLD HOSPITAL |
On September 29th, "Pennhurst Asylum" opened for their 2023 season. Two of my adult children and another friend accompanied me. The weather was beautiful, calm and a bit overcast. It perfectly set the mood.
Over the years, I have seen many changes in the actual haunt itself- including new and better scenes and animatronics. And as amazing as these ADDITIONS can be, there is nothing like the actual physical aspect of an actor dressed in disguise, leering and doing something incredibly horrid -especially if they can get a jump scare out of your hide.
"ASYLUM" Before we entered the Asylum, our four person group was also gifted with the addition of four 13 year old girls. This was the first time these young ladies were touring the haunt. After being greeted in the entrance way by a wicked nurse, we began moving through the building with all the gory displays. Now I am a seasoned haunter and there isn't much that scares me, but it was a really crazy experience with two out of the four girls hanging on to me for dear life. Claw like fingers dug into my arms and back. My shirt was twisted, my coat half ripped off. I began to laugh as they fell to the floor or refused to even walk. One screamed at me, "Why are you laughing?" I could only shake my head as one burst into tears. We all managed to get through the horror show and once outside, the foursome thanked me for my "motherly" service.
"THE MORGUE" After touring the Asylum, came the MORGUE. We were able to tour it with our small group. Once again, the actors out did themselves and managed to give me a couple of scare jumps. Screams, groans and eerie displays kept my feet moving in stride. Screams for help and a supposed dire situation took hold of the actors as they did their best to bring you into their imagined terror.
"TUNNELS" There is something very unnerving about the tunnels - even without the exhibits. I know from personal experience and revealing eye witness accounting, that the tunnels are often the target of paranormal mayhem. As you walked down the staircase, you are quickly overcome with the dark, damp atmosphere. You check your step, wondering if you'll disappear into the darkness. Fog, lighting and shapes lurking in the atmosphere giving you pause - not to mention a few hideous creatures. I found myself watching my footing or what I was touching as the dark worked over your imagination. The misty atmosphere messes with your mind as you strain to see your mystical surroundings. Just as you think you are finally escaping the underground corridor intact, a murderous surprise roars out of the final darkness - a nice ending to your feat.
"PATHWAY" At the end of our tour, we were greeted with a spooky trail, complete with surreal lighting, hanging pumpkins and large animatronics that would come to life. This was a nice touch and I enjoyed the tranquility after just experiencing the crazy mayhem.
*There is an additional attraction "CATACOMBS" offered but we didn't opt for it this particular time but will in the near future.
Out of the three attractions, "ASYLUM" was by far "my favorite" for I am easily drawn into the vivid creepiness of the endless rooms and corridors set amongst the historical relics of a bygone era. The actors are top notch pros. I was impressed.
For more info: (Spring City, Pennsylvania)
Author Tamera Lawrence
GHOSTS OF MAYFLOWER: A PENNHURST HAUNTING BOOK 1&2
ASYLUM- A FICTION HORROR BASED ON SOME OF THE TRUE HISTORY OF PENNHURST
