Villisca, Montgomery County, Iowa
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| Photo: Wikipedia |
In the quiet town of Villisca, Iowa, nestled within Montgomery County, stands one of the most chilling unsolved murder sites in American history — the Villisca Axe Murder House. This unassuming white house, once a family home, became the scene of a brutal and mysterious tragedy that continues to shock and mystify over a century later.
On the night of June 9, 1912, Josiah and Sarah Moore, along with their four children and two visiting guests, were murdered in their sleep — each victim bludgeoned with an axe. The killer had hidden in the attic, waiting for the household to fall asleep, before committing the heinous act. The brutality of the murders, combined with the lack of clear motive and the many suspects who were never convicted, has left behind a legacy soaked in mystery, sorrow, and spiritual unrest.
Over the decades, the house has gained a reputation as one of the most haunted places in America. Visitors, paranormal investigators, and even skeptics have reported ghostly voices, unexplained movements, shadow figures, and the eerie sound of children's laughter echoing through the rooms. Lights flicker, doors open and close on their own, and a heavy presence is often felt in the bedrooms — especially near the attic where the killer is believed to have hidden.
Some guests have reported feeling overcome with emotion, others claim they’ve been physically touched or scratched. During overnight stays, it’s not uncommon for cameras and equipment to malfunction, clocks to stop at 12:45 AM (the suspected time of the murders), and EVP recordings to pick up chilling whispers asking for help.
The Villisca Axe Murder House serves not just as a relic of one of the darkest chapters in Iowa’s history but also as a focal point for paranormal exploration. Whether drawn by curiosity, sorrow, or the thrill of a good ghost story, those who step inside rarely leave untouched by the weight of its past.
Address: 508 E 2nd St, Villisca, IA 50864Tours: Day tours and overnight stays available by appointment.
Website: http://www.villiscaiowa.com or call (712) 621-1530 for bookings.
Note: Due to the graphic nature of the events associated with the home, tours may not be suitable for children.