10/14/2026
Whispers in the Hall: The Haunting History of 1881
Hosted by folklorist Rissa Miller, created with assistance by medium Jennifer LaRue
Third year running and sold out every year so far.
Whispers in the Hall invites you into the layered past of the historic building that is now home to 1881 Salt Sanctuary. Long before it became a space for restoration and wellness, this land held an early schoolhouse, its classrooms filled with frontier children, strict schoolmasters, and the daily life of a growing community.
Rissa Miller, a folklorist and researcher who also leads ghost tours throughout York, shares what she learned from months of uncovering the stories tied to the property. That includes the documented history, the whispered legends, and the lingering presences that seem to echo through the halls. Working with psychic medium Jennifer LaRue, she explored the subtle energies of the space and traced impressions of teachers, traders, and long-ago residents who still seem to be here.
You’ll hear accounts of unexplained sounds, shadowy movements, and quiet moments that suggest some spirits haven’t entirely moved on. Woven together with local history, these stories show a building where past and present meet, sometimes gently and sometimes unexpectedly.
During the evening, you’ll:
~ Explore the early history of the schoolhouse that now houses 1881
~ Hear researched stories, legends, and historical accounts tied to the property
~ Learn about documented and anecdotal ghostly activity in the building
~ Discover how past residents, teachers, and traders shaped the land’s energy
~ Enjoy a reflective, atmospheric program that blends folklore and local history
Weather permitting: We’ll close the night with a walk next door through Loucks (Wolf) Cemetery. Rissa will introduce some of its notable residents and share more stories from the grounds. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Whether you love the mysteries of old buildings, enjoy regional history, or just want to celebrate spooky season in a meaningful way, this is a thoughtful, atmospheric evening with the past.
Wednesday, October 28 @ 7pm
1881 Salt Sanctuary, 1881 Loucks Rd, York
This event has sold out every year, so we recommend reserving early.
Call 717-894-1881 or register online https://www.1881sanctuary.com/events
