Welcome to our article on the infamous Amityville Horror House, a home with a haunted past that has captivated the world for decades. The history of this haunted home dates back to the 1970s, when the Lutz family moved in and experienced a series of terrifying paranormal activities. The events that took place inside the Amityville Horror House have been the subject of numerous books, movies, and documentaries, making it one of the most well-known haunted homes in history. Follow us as we explore the history and paranormal activities that took place inside the Amityville Horror House, debunk some of the claims, and delve into the psychology behind our fascination with haunted houses.
In this first section, we will provide a brief introduction to the Amityville Horror House and its history. We will also touch on some of the infamous paranormal activities that have taken place inside the house. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the dark and haunting past of the Amityville Horror House.
The History of the Amityville Horror House
The Amityville Horror House is a large Dutch Colonial-style home located at 112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, New York. The house was built in 1927 and was originally owned by John Moynahan and his family. The Moynahan family lived in the house until 1965 when they sold it to the DeFeo family.
The DeFeo family consisted of Ronald DeFeo Sr., his wife Louise, and their five children: Ronald Jr., Dawn, Allison, Marc, and John. On November 13, 1974, Ronald DeFeo Jr. shot and killed his entire family while they were sleeping in the house. He claimed to have heard voices that told him to do it.
Following the murders, the house remained vacant for over a year until it was purchased by George and Kathleen Lutz in December 1975. The Lutz family knew about the murders before purchasing the house but were able to negotiate a lower price due to the property’s history.
The Lutz family only lived in the house for 28 days before leaving due to alleged paranormal activity. They claimed to have experienced supernatural phenomena such as strange noises, foul odors, and ghostly apparitions.
The events that took place in the Amityville Horror House have been the subject of much debate, with some believing it to be haunted and others alleging that the Lutz family fabricated the story as a publicity stunt. Despite the controversy, the Amityville Horror House remains a popular topic of discussion among paranormal enthusiasts and horror fans alike.
The DeFeo Family Murders
The tragic murders of the DeFeo family that took place inside the Amityville Horror House continue to haunt the property to this day. On November 13, 1974, Ronald DeFeo Jr. murdered his parents and four siblings with a rifle while they slept in their beds.
Investigators later found that all six victims had been shot with a .35 lever-action Marlin rifle. Despite initial claims that the murders were carried out by a group of hitmen, it was eventually revealed that Ronald DeFeo Jr. acted alone.
The murders were a shock to the small town of Amityville, and the tragedy has become a part of the infamous history of the Amityville Horror House.
The Lutz Family Moves In
In 1975, George and Kathy Lutz, along with their three children, moved into the Amityville Horror House. They were aware of the murders that took place in the home just a year before, but decided to move in anyway. The Lutz family claimed that they got a good deal on the house and believed that they could handle any negative energy that may be in the house.
However, it wasn’t long before strange occurrences began happening in the home. The Lutz family reported seeing green slime oozing from the walls, hearing strange voices and sounds, and experiencing cold spots throughout the house. George Lutz also claimed that he would wake up every night at exactly 3:15 AM – the same time that Ronald DeFeo Jr. murdered his family.
The Hauntings Begin
Shortly after moving into the Amityville Horror House, the Lutz family began experiencing strange and terrifying occurrences. As they settled in, they started noticing odors that seemed to come from nowhere and the presence of unseen entities lurking around the house. Soon, the activity escalated into full-blown hauntings.
One evening, George Lutz heard a loud chorus of voices calling his name coming from inside the house. When he went to investigate, he found no one there. Another time, the family’s daughter reported being held in her bedroom by an invisible force. The Lutzes also claimed to see strange red eyes glowing in the darkness at night.
The hauntings took a toll on the family, causing them to feel constantly on edge and unable to sleep. They reported being physically assaulted by the spirits as well, with George Lutz claiming to have been levitated off his bed by an unseen force.
The Entities
The Lutz family encountered several different entities during their stay in the Amityville Horror House. One of the most prominent was a demonic pig-like creature with glowing red eyes that appeared to George Lutz in his nightmares and physically attacked him.
Another entity seemed to be the ghost of a small child, who appeared to the family in various forms and seemed to be trapped inside the house. The Lutzes also claimed to have seen the ghost of John Matthew DeFeo, the youngest victim of the DeFeo family murders.
The Lutz Family Tries to Escape the Amityville Horror House
As the hauntings in the Amityville Horror House grew increasingly severe, the Lutz family knew they had to get out. They attempted to leave the home on several occasions, but each time they were met with seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
On one occasion, the Lutz family tried to leave but found that the front door had become inexplicably jammed shut. They were forced to exit through a window instead. Another time, they attempted to flee in their car but found that the engine wouldn’t start, despite having worked perfectly fine earlier in the day.
As the days went on, the Lutz family became increasingly convinced that they were in grave danger and that their attempts to leave the Amityville Horror House were being actively thwarted by the malevolent force that resided within its walls.
Ultimately, the Lutz family was able to escape the Amityville Horror House, but their experiences in the home would haunt them for the rest of their lives.
The Media Frenzy
After the Lutz family went public with their experiences, the Amityville Horror House gained nationwide attention, leading to a media frenzy. The story was covered extensively in newspapers, magazines, and on television, captivating audiences with its sensational claims of paranormal activity.
The book “The Amityville Horror” by Jay Anson, which chronicled the experiences of the Lutz family, was a bestseller and later adapted into a popular film series.
The Amityville Horror Movie Adaptations
| Movie Title | Release Date | Studio |
|---|---|---|
| The Amityville Horror | 1979 | American International Pictures |
| Amityville II: The Possession | 1982 | Orion Pictures |
| Amityville 3-D | 1983 | Orion Pictures |
| The Amityville Horror | 2005 | MGM Pictures |
The authenticity of the Lutz family’s claims has been a topic of debate, with some claiming the story was a hoax or exaggeration. Despite this, interest in the Amityville Horror House remains high, and the house itself has become a tourist attraction for those interested in the paranormal.
The Warrens Get Involved
Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren were called in to investigate the Amityville Horror House in 1976, just a year after the Lutz family moved out. During their investigation, they claimed to have experienced supernatural phenomena, including feeling a sense of paralysis and seeing green slime oozing from the walls.
The Warrens concluded that the Amityville Horror House was possessed by a demonic presence, and that the DeFeo family murders were a result of this possession. They believed that the Lutz family’s experiences were a continuation of this possession.
Despite the Warrens’ claims, their involvement in the case has been met with skepticism. Critics have accused them of exaggerating or fabricating their findings, and of exploiting the Lutz family’s experiences for their own gain.
Whether or not the Warrens’ investigation provides evidence of paranormal activity in the Amityville Horror House remains a subject of debate.
The Amityville Horror House Today
After the Lutz family fled the Amityville Horror House, several families have lived in the home without reporting any paranormal activity. The house has since been renovated, and the iconic quarter-moon windows have been removed to discourage visitors from trespassing.
As of now, the Amityville Horror House is privately owned and is not open to the public for tours or visits.
Debunking the Amityville Horror House
While the Lutz family’s experiences in the Amityville Horror House gained widespread media attention and sparked numerous books and movies, there are those who question the validity of their claims of paranormal activity.
One explanation for the experiences of the Lutz family is carbon monoxide poisoning. In 1976, a reporter for Newsday investigated the Amityville Horror House and found high levels of carbon monoxide in the home. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include hallucinations, dizziness, and nausea, which could explain some of the experiences reported by the Lutz family.
Additionally, some critics have pointed out inconsistencies and inaccuracies in the accounts of the Lutz family’s experiences. For example, the layout of the house described in their accounts differed from the actual layout, leading some to question the accuracy of their claims.
Despite these criticisms, believers in the paranormal continue to point to the Amityville Horror House as evidence of the existence of spirits and ghosts. The debate over the reality of the haunting in the Amityville Horror House continues to this day, and likely will for years to come.
Similar Haunted Homes
The Amityville Horror House is not the only home with a haunted history. Here are some other notable haunted homes from around the world:
| House | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Winchester Mystery House | San Jose, California | A sprawling mansion with staircases leading to nowhere, doors that open to walls, and other architectural oddities. |
| The Tower of London | London, UK | A historic fortress and royal palace with a reputation for being haunted by the spirits of former prisoners and executed royals. |
| The Myrtles Plantation | St. Francisville, Louisiana | An antebellum plantation with a history of murder and mystery, including the legend of a slave girl named Chloe who haunts the grounds. |
| The Banff Springs Hotel | Banff, Alberta, Canada | A grand hotel built in the late 19th century that is said to be haunted by the ghosts of former guests and staff members. |
Each of these homes has its own unique history and set of ghostly legends. For those brave enough to explore, they offer a glimpse into the eerie world of the paranormal.
The Psychology of Haunted Houses
Haunted houses have long been a subject of fascination for people around the world. From ghostly apparitions to unexplained noises, the idea of a house being haunted is both thrilling and terrifying at the same time. But what is it about these homes that draws people in?
One theory is that people are attracted to the unknown. The uncertainty of what might happen in a haunted house is exciting and creates a feeling of anticipation. Additionally, some people may be drawn to the history of the home and the events that make it haunted.
However, living in a haunted house can also have negative effects on a person’s mental health. The constant fear and anxiety can lead to sleep deprivation, depression, and even PTSD. It’s important for individuals to consider the potential risks before deciding to live in a haunted home.
Despite the potential risks, some people still choose to investigate paranormal activity in haunted homes. The use of scientific methods, such as electromagnetic field detectors and temperature sensors, can help provide evidence of the existence of ghosts and other entities. However, skeptics argue that these methods are not foolproof and that there could be other explanations for the phenomena.
Ultimately, the psychology of haunted houses is complex and varies from person to person. Some may find the fear and thrill of living in a haunted home exhilarating, while others may find it too overwhelming. Whatever the case may be, it’s important to approach the subject with an open mind and consider both the potential risks and rewards.
Paranormal Investigations and Research
Paranormal investigations and research have gained significant popularity in recent years, as more people are becoming intrigued by the possibility of life after death and the existence of spirits and ghosts. There are various methods used in paranormal investigations, including scientific equipment, mediumship, and psychic abilities.
One of the most common tools used in paranormal investigations is the EMF meter. This device measures fluctuations in electromagnetic fields, which are believed to be caused by the presence of spirits. Another popular tool is the EVP recorder, which records electronic voice phenomena, or sounds that are thought to be voices from the spirit world.
However, some skeptics argue that these tools do not provide concrete evidence of paranormal activity, as there could be other explanations for the fluctuations and sounds recorded.
Despite the controversy surrounding the methods used in paranormal investigations, there are ongoing efforts to provide evidence of the existence of ghosts and other entities. Organizations such as the Society for Psychical Research and the Rhine Research Center are dedicated to researching paranormal phenomena and providing a scientific understanding of the spiritual world.
Ghostly Encounters: Real or Fake?
For decades, people have been fascinated by stories of ghostly encounters and haunted houses. While many believe in the existence of ghosts and other supernatural entities, others remain skeptical and question the validity of these claims. So, are ghostly encounters real or fake?
The answer to this question is not so straightforward. While there is no concrete scientific evidence to prove the existence of ghosts, there are countless stories and experiences from people who claim to have had encounters with them. On the other hand, many of these experiences can be explained by natural phenomena or psychological factors.
One theory is that some of these experiences may be caused by carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that can cause a range of symptoms, including hallucinations and confusion. In some cases, people have reported seeing ghostly apparitions in homes with high levels of carbon monoxide.
Another explanation for ghostly encounters is the power of suggestion. If someone believes that a house or location is haunted, they may start to interpret normal sounds as paranormal activity. This can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy, where the person becomes convinced that they are experiencing something supernatural.
However, there are also cases where ghostly encounters cannot be easily explained. Paranormal investigators use a range of techniques to capture evidence of supernatural activity, such as recording electronic voice phenomena (EVP) or taking photographs of apparitions. While skeptics argue that these methods can be easily faked, paranormal investigators maintain that they provide strong evidence of ghostly encounters.
Ultimately, whether or not ghostly encounters are real or fake is a matter of personal belief. While skeptics may argue that these experiences can be explained through natural or psychological factors, believers maintain that they provide evidence of the existence of ghosts and other entities.
The Amityville Horror House: Fact or Fiction?
The events that took place inside the Amityville Horror House have been the subject of debate for decades. While the Lutz family’s claims of paranormal activity have been widely reported, skeptics question the validity of their experiences.
Despite multiple investigations and studies, there is no concrete evidence to prove or disprove the existence of ghosts or other entities in the Amityville Horror House. Some attribute the reported hauntings to natural phenomena, such as creaking floorboards and drafts, while others argue that there may be a psychological explanation for the Lutz family’s experiences.
Regardless of the truth behind the Amityville Horror House, its legacy has endured. It has inspired numerous books, movies, and television shows, cementing its place in popular culture. Whether fact or fiction, the story of the Amityville Horror House continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
The Amityville Horror House: FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Amityville Horror House:
Is the Amityville Horror House still haunted?
There have been no reported paranormal activities at the Amityville Horror House in recent years. However, the current owners have reported strange occurrences, such as unexplained footsteps and doors slamming on their own.
Is the Amityville Horror House open to the public for tours?
No, the Amityville Horror House is not open to the public for tours. The current owners are very private and do not allow visitors to the property.
How much does the Amityville Horror House cost?
The Amityville Horror House was sold for $605,000 in 2010. However, it is not currently for sale.
What happened to the Lutz family?
The Lutz family left the Amityville Horror House after just 28 days due to the hauntings they experienced. They eventually moved to California and changed their names.
What did the Warrens find in their investigation of the Amityville Horror House?
The Warrens conducted a seance in the Amityville Horror House and claimed to have made contact with the spirits of the DeFeo family. They also claimed that the house was built on a Native American burial ground, which could be the cause of the hauntings.
Has the story of the Amityville Horror House been proven to be true?
There is no concrete evidence to support the claims of paranormal activity in the Amityville Horror House. Some have claimed that the Lutz family made up the story to profit from a book and movie deal. Others believe that the hauntings were real and that the house remains haunted to this day.
