Letchworth Village originally started in 1911 in the small town of Thiells, New York as a type of safe haven for those with severe physical and mental disabilities. Its aim was to create an organization that enabled people with special needs to live more independently. It was initially designed to be a farming and self-serving agricultural society, rather than just another insane asylum that basically left its residents to rot. Namesake William Pryor Letchworth was a humanitarian who strove to support rights of humanity. However, the location that was established for peace became more known for tragedy, darkness, overcrowding, and neglect. The harshness that existed there went full-scale public in 1972 in a bombshell report that made clear the awful truth of what really went on there. Unsurprisingly, it was shut down permanently in 1996 and remains mostly abandoned today, although partially historically preserved as a type of memorial of its dark past. Naturally, such an afterthought of a place is now widely considered to be haunted by those who once suffered there. Dark energy is felt throughout the sprawling property and its multiple buildings and plots of land. Those who do visit the site often report disembodied noises and voices, as well as apparitions, including a menacing 7-foot-tall shadow figure lurking around. Former staff and patients are both possibilities as explanations of who may be haunting the area. Extreme temperature changes, startling door slams, and oppressive feelings are commonly experienced. Loose teeth have even been seen on the grounds. The facility has been featured on various shows and visited by legit paranormal investigation groups regularly. The place is literally a decaying memorial of lives who clearly were taken for granted at their most vulnerable and leaves an impression on virtually all who have been there.
Haunted Letchworth Village
