Going into its 19th year, the Irvington Ghost Tours lead by Al and Rhonda Hunter and their volunteers will hit the streets of Irvington beginning October 1. At first, the tours were small — maybe a dozen or more people. But as word got out, the tours grew in size and scope, and on a nice-weather evening, hundreds would meet on Johnson Avenue to walk a spell and hear tales of the most haunted neighborhood in the Midwest. Tours are held on Friday and Saturday nights through October at 7 p.m.
The Irvington Ghost Tour takes visitors through the sites of the most (in)famous stories of history and hauntings in Irvington. Rich in history, Irvington has been home to artists, writers, and scions of society — but it was also the spot where serial killer H.H. Holmes committed one of his last murders, where the Grand Dragon of the Indiana KKK wielded power (and lost it), and where a young punk named John Dillinger practiced his robbery skills. Al carefully and thoroughly tells their stories on the tour. In addition, tour-goers will find out why the former library of Butler University is called the Bona Thompson, and what famous feet tread the boards at the Irving Theater. Those stories, and many more, are featured on the tour.
In recent years, many families have moved into Irvington and may be unaware of its history. At the same time, people who have lived in the area for a while may not know the whole story behind places like the former Guardian Home (now Irvington Community School High School).
The Magic Candle, 203 S. Audubon, have pre-sale tickets available (cash only). The $20 covers the 2-plus hour walking tour, plus the official Tour Guide book, and a flashlight (while supplies last). You can call to reserve tickets at 317-850-1910. Proceeds from the tour are donated back into the Irvington community.
Masks are not required for this outdoor event, but tour-goers are encouraged to maintain social distancing. No eating, drinking, or smoking on the tours. The tours go on, rain or shine, so participants are reminded to wear good walking shoes and jackets if the weather gets nippy.
“I always look forward to doing the tours,” Hunter noted. “Every year, every tour, it’s a little different.”
