Reports of paranormal and supernatural activity are typically considered publicity tactics or exaggeration aimed at generating interest, particularly within the ‘millennial’ generation. Irrespective of the quantity of evidence available, there are several individuals who simply do not accept such tales; one can find only a scant number of people willing to accept such urban myths and anecdotes. But the Pennsylvanian Blair County and its Ghost Research Foundation recognize numerous haunted sites and accord them the status of ‘national museums’. The foundation focuses on exploring numerous haunted sites across Pennsylvania ("Discovering the Railroaders Memorial Museum in Altoona, Pennsylvania Uncoveringpa"). Blair County’s key ‘haunted’ tourist spots are Altoona Railroaders Museum, Baker Mansion, and Mishler Theater. These three sites offer highly intriguing entertainment, particular in October and November.
The abovementioned museums plan and arrange ghost haunt festivals to entice visitors. Halloween sees a huge inflow of tourists at these sites, seeking participation in their Halloween event and wishing to study ghosts’ history. Such sites are ‘gazetted’ as museums for the purpose of preserving community heritage and cultivating interest among community members to retain their ancient relics. Programs, academic havens and exhibitions are planned for engaging individuals of diverse creeds. This facilitates fundraising for preserving and maintaining the sites and their associated legends.
The Altoona Railroaders Museum
This 4-storey Altoona-based memorial museum records and commemorates the contribution of railroaders to America’s economy. Exhibits on display (covering three of its four stories) take spectators through the city’s railroading history and the activity’s impact on the city. The entire museum is dotted with several entertaining interactive elements for children as well as adults. Furthermore, one will come across numerous animatronic figures which commence speaking the moment somebody enters the room ("Discovering...
The aforementioned figures are actually historical characters aiding spectators in understanding the golden age of railroading in America.
Situated in the heart of the city, this museum’s building was once the Pennsylvanian Railroad’s Master Mechanics edifice. Constructed in the year 1882, it was intended for the purpose of rigorous railroad testing. The museum, which unlocked its doors for public viewing in the year 1980, was initially not situated here; only in 1998 was it relocated to its current building. It is regarded as the nation’s sole interactive Railroader Museum featuring museum, film, lobby show and store. Even individuals not interested in the railroad will end up loving the place.
A spirit, Frank, spotted throughout the building, is believed to haunt it. Workers report other apparitions too; at times, they hear faint strains of Big Band songs and even, on occasion, find gift shop shelves empty of their articles, which are seen stacked on the ground ("Discovering The Railroaders Memorial Museum In Altoona, Pennsylvania - Uncovering" 1). Visitors are invited to connect to ancient history and participate in instructive screenings organized on the building’s second story. Personnel at the museum are qualified to capably answer visitors’ queries.
The Mishler Theater
Isaac Mishler first established this theatre in the year 1906. However, unfortunately, within a year’s time, a fire in an edifice adjacent to it spread and reached the theatre, nearly burning it down to the ground. In the following year, a restored theatre was reopened to the public. During the 60’s, a decision was made to demolish the theatre but community members resisted. The building’s interior has partly been restored largely to its initial look; even now restoration efforts are in progress ("Mishler Theatre Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania USA Haunted Discoveries Your Paranormal Haunted Article Database Join the Community" 1). A number of ghosts are believed to haunt the…
