ONE MAN BAND
A late start, nor the lack of traveling companions, could not stop what would become a memorable night on the road. The 8 o’clock hour had this lone wolf barreling down I-75 south with hungry eyes set on the village of Lafayette, Ohio, home of Haunted Town Hall. The historic, multi-storied structure loomed large on the corner of West Sugar and South High Street. Shortly after I parked, I met the operators of Haunted Town Hall, Ned and Nettie.
We swapped some stories, shared a few laughs and then I was ushered into the impressive building. Haunted Town Hall was neatly designed and showcased many of the classic fundamentals that helped launch the haunted attraction industry into the American mainstream. Age and atmosphere were present in spades, the path even sent guests skyward up a creepy stairwell. Precious few attractions nowadays are held in genuine, historic locations like this one. Haunted Town Hall is a hidden gem of the Ohio haunt scene, suitable for guests of all ages.
CLOWNS IN A CORNFIELD
My second and final stop of the night was in nearby Waynesfield, where the mysterious Hammer Brother’s Haunted Circus had popped up in the middle of a cornfield. Now in it’s 10th season, Hammer Brother’s featured four attractions — Haunted Cornfield, The Homestead, Fun House, and Zombie Paintball Wagon Ride.
Guests are encouraged to enjoy the attractions in whatever order they see fit which is a novel technique that helps with crowd management. Oh, did I mention that Hammer Brother’s Haunted Circus is Hands-On? Well, now I have, and you’ve been warned.
Each attraction was well-paced, abundantly staffed, and painstakingly detailed. Numerous areas included clever design features that served to engage the imagination and provide depth to the overall narrative. I was particularly impressed with the in-your-face nature of the cast and the deftness with which the Hands-On element was implemented. The high energy presentation created an immersive experience that felt very much like a genuine adventure.
All of the puzzle pieces required to construct a superior haunted attraction fit snuggly together at Hammer Brother’s Haunted Circus. I can say without reservation that I look forward to a return trip in the future with friends in tow. With room to expand and an ambitious brain trust, ten years may just be the beginning for the Wonder of Waynesfield.
Many thanks to Julie, Caesar, and Matt who played the role of gracious hosts and eagerly shared their insights and ideas into this wild industry that delights untold millions each Halloween season.
Full reviews of Haunted Town Hall and Hammer Brother’s Haunted Circus to follow in the coming weeks.
