Haunted House Stories

The haunted mansion in Altoona, Pennsylvania which currently acts as the center of operations for Blair County’s Historical Society was constructed in the late 1840’s. The man behind the haunted mansion was Elias Baker who built this home for his growing family which included Hetty along with their sons, Sylvester and David. Later two more children would arrive, Anna and Margaretta. The last of the Baker family would reside there (Elias’s daughter Anna) until the year 1914. Less than a decade later, it would serve as a museum to the public. Since then, strange paranormal occurrences have plagued this haunted mansion. Some say the Bakers have decided this mansion still belongs to them even in the afterlife.

A popular attraction at the Baker haunted mansion is that of a beautiful wedding dress. This piece of clothing was Anna Baker’s at one time. It has been said that Anna’s father did not approve of her choice of a mate and because of this, Anna never got to wear this wedding dress. For some strange reason, on occasions this dress has been seen vibrating violently. Is Anna upset that she never got to marry the man of her dreams?

There have been other paranormal activity at the haunted mansion. One is strange sounds that have been heard throughout the years. Another is actual apparitions taking form, including that of what appeared to be soldier. Maybe one from the Civil War era. A young boy had seen him in the basement much to his mother’s dismay. Others have sworn seeing Anna along with her father, Elias himself, including that of a figure who is seen only as dark in appearance.

Orbs are another instance where something of the supernatural resides at the Baker’s haunted mansion. People have taken pictures in the past with noticing nothing out of the ordinary until they view the pictures later on, only to find orbs in the photos.

I believe the Baker Mansion is open all year round. The admission is fairly cheap (only 6 dollars for adults). For classes, it is available for larger groups but you must give the Baker Mansion, seven days notice.