Ghost Walk Set at West Virginia Independence Hall
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WHEELING - West Virginia Independence Hall in downtown Wheeling is the birthplace of West Virginia, but it has a dark side as well.
Many say it is one of the most haunted places in Wheeling. Visitors and staff have experienced many strange things in the building over the years including objects being knocked onto the floor, doors slamming by themselves, light being turned off and on by unseen hands, at least one apparition and perhaps an encounter with an angel.
On Saturday, Oct. 24, visitors will have an opportunity to learn about many of these unexplained encounters. They will also hear some interesting facts about the site, which is the most historic place in West Virginia.
"This isn't a haunted house type of event," said Pattie Hershey, vice president of the West Virginia Independence Hall Foundation (WVIHF). "Costumed guides will take groups through the historic landmark and tell stories about the possibly supernatural things visitors and staff members have experienced in the building since the 1970s."
Gerry Reilly, president of the WVIHF, and site manager of the building between 1996 and 2006, will be one of the guides and will recount some of the things he, and others, have experienced while working in the building.
This is the second-year members of the WVIH Foundation have held the ghost walk at the site. "Guests who attended last year's program told staff how much they enjoyed seeing the actual locations in the building where these strange things occurred, and also learning about the history of the structure, Reilly said. "So many people told us how much they enjoyed the event last year that we decided to hold it again this October."
Wayne McCord will be the other presenter. He was born and raised in Wheeling. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Point Park College. Over the years, McCord has performed in many local productions, most of them through Oglebay Institute's Towngate Theatre. This marks his fourth time as a presenter for a spirit program at WVIH.
The program is a fundraiser for the West Virginia Independence Hall Foundation, which supports programs and events at the historic site. There will be seating for most of the stories.
Tours will be held at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 24. Admission is $10 per person. Reservations are encouraged. To make reservations call 304-238-1300. Unfortunately, credit cards cannot be accepted for payment. Please pay by check or cash. The program is not recommended for children 12 and under. Make checks payable to the West Virginia Independence Hall Foundation. West Virginia Independence Hall is located at 1528 Market St., Wheeling, WV 26003.