CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — The Ross County Historical Society is inviting the public to step back in time for an evening of local lore, oddities, and historical mystery during its upcoming “Haunted Histories” event on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026.
The family-friendly Halloween event will take place from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Ross County Heritage Center, located at 45 W. 5th St. in Chillicothe. Attendees are asked to arrive by 6:45 p.m., and costumes are welcome.
Interactive Experiences and Victorian Spiritualism
Throughout the evening, visitors can experience live scheduled performances and interactive displays set in authentic historical settings:
- Ghost Stories & Victorian Parlor Tales: Guests can step into a Victorian parlor to hear Appalachian ghost stories and tales from across Southern Ohio.
- Interactive 19th-Century Séance: Inside an 1800s log house, participants can take part in an interactive recreation of a Victorian séance and attempt to debunk 19th-century spiritualism techniques using deduction. Both the séance and ghost story presentations will feature three showings over the course of the evening.
- Oddities from the Collection: Attendees can view a curated display of curious and unusual items selected from the depths of the society’s permanent collection.
- Folk Art Demonstrations: Two Appalachian folk artists will demonstrate and sell traditional crafts, including corn husk doll making and pine needle basket weaving.
In addition to the presentations and exhibits, admission includes full access to museum tours, Halloween-themed crafts, fortune-telling games, and complimentary refreshments.
Registration & Admission Details
Reservations are strictly required in advance for all attendees.
- Date & Time: Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Arrival at 6:45 p.m.)
- Location: Ross County Heritage Center, 45 W. 5th St., Chillicothe, OH
- Admission: $20 for Ross County Historical Society members; $30 for non-members
- How to Reserve: Tickets can be reserved online at rosscountyhistorical.org or by calling 740-772-1936.
