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Writer's pictureErin Egnatz

Lake Shawnee Amusement Park: West Virginia

In the year 1783, the Clay family lived on a plot of land in what is now Princeton, West Virginia. The area was very rural in that time, and their was still extreme animosity between the new settlers and the Native American's who had lived there before. It was recently discovered that the Native American's had used the land as a sacred burial ground, though that was not known in the Clay's time. As tensions reached a boiling point, an attack on the Clay family was carried out during a hunting expedition. As a result, two of the Clay children were killed and another was taken hostage. The family member taken hostage was allegedly burnt at the stake in a horribly brutal retaliation.


Fast forward to the 20th century and a theme park was built on the land. The theme park, called Lake Shawnee Amusement Park, became a popular destination in the area. Spinning swings, a water slide, a large pond for rowing and canoeing, a ferris wheel and more were all attractions visitors loved to experience. Sadly, at least six people lost their lives in different tragedies at the theme park. In 1966, after a 40 year run, Lake Shawnee Amusement Park closed its gates for good. For over 50 years, the remains of the old theme park have stood as nature has taken its course all around the rides and grounds.


Reports from various people who visited the site have claimed that the paranormal activity is prevalent. From shadows, to orbs, to disembodied voices, to swings moving on their own, the location is very active. The Travel Channel has even ranked it as one of the "Most terrifying Places in America."


Photo by: Edd Lange

 



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