The Ridges – Haunted Asylum in Athens, Ohio
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Full Address: 118 Ridges Cir, Athens, OH 45701, United States
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The Ridges, once known as the Athens Lunatic Asylum, is one of Ohio’s most chilling haunted locations. Built in the 19th century, it served as a mental hospital for nearly a century.
Today, it’s remembered less for its architecture and more for the dark stories of mistreatment, tragedy, and ghost sightings that still linger in its halls.
Historical Background
- Year Built: 1874
- Original Purpose: Mental Asylum
- Significant Events: Over the years, the asylum housed thousands of patients, many of whom suffered from harsh treatments like lobotomies and electroshock therapy.
One of the most tragic stories is of Margaret Schilling, a patient who disappeared in 1978. Her body was found weeks later in an abandoned wing. A stain of her corpse is still visible on the floor.
Paranormal Activity Summary
Strange noises, cold spots, and eerie whispers are common here.
Visitors report doors opening on their own, unseen footsteps, and sudden feelings of dread. Some say the building itself seems to breathe.
Margaret Schilling is the most well-known spirit. Her presence is often felt in the room where she died. Lights flicker, and people feel a heavy pressure when they stand near the stain.
By the way, have you visited this haunted place in Ohio State? Twin City Opera House – Haunted Theater in McConnelsville, Ohio
Ghost Stories & Reports
The ghost of Margaret Schilling is often seen peering out the windows or wandering the hallways. She’s described as wearing a hospital gown and looking confused.
There are stories of former patients still roaming the grounds—some crying, others screaming. Staff from the Ohio University, which now uses part of the property, have reported lights turning on by themselves and voices echoing through empty buildings.
Local legends say that the spirits are restless due to the suffering they endured during their lifetimes.
Another chilling tale tells of a shadow figure often seen lurking in the former lobotomy ward, sometimes pacing, sometimes standing completely still.
Speaking of haunted places, don’t forget to also check this place in Ohio State? Loveland Castle – Haunted Castle in Loveland, Ohio
Most Haunted Spot Inside
The abandoned ward where Margaret Schilling died is said to be the most haunted. Her body imprint remains on the floor, and her spirit is most active here.
The paranormal doesn’t stop here—this haunted place might also interest you in Ohio State? Collingwood Arts Center – Haunted Performance Space in Toledo, Ohio
Can You Visit?
- Open to the Public? Yes
- Entry Fee: Free for general grounds; museum may charge a small fee
- Tour Availability: Special ghost tours and historical tours are offered occasionally
- Photography Allowed? Yes
- Visiting Hours? Varies by building; museum generally open during regular daytime hours
Best Time to Visit
Fall and winter are said to bring out the most activity, especially in the late evenings.
Paranormal Investigations & Findings
The Ridges has been visited by multiple paranormal teams. Many recorded EVP sessions have picked up strange voices calling out names or saying phrases like “help me.”
Some teams captured unexplained shadows and temperature drops during thermal scans.
Safety Warnings & Legal Restrictions
Not all buildings are open to the public. Trespassing into restricted areas is illegal and dangerous due to the aging structure. Visitors should only explore areas marked as open.