Completed in 1878, the Music Hall in Cincinnati is famed for its architecture. It’s a prominent example of the Victorian Gothic Revival Style, and its presence and beauty astound all who visit. But there is more than meets the eye with the Music Hall. Situated in an 1800s cemetery and next to an old orphan asylum, there are many who consider this building one of the most haunted places in America. So be sure to take a tour or grab a show here, and see if you notice any paranormal activities!
The Cincinnati Music Hall is located across from the historic Washington Park in Over-the-Rhine, just a few minutes from downtown Cincinnati. Completed in 1878, it was designed to house both musical performances and exhibitions.
The Music Hall was designed by architect Samuel Hannaford in the Victorian Gothic Revival Style. It truly is a picture-perfect building that inspires awe in all who visit.
In fact, in 1975, it was recognized as a National Historic Landmark for its distinctive Venetian Gothic architecture. There are many notable features, including the stunning large Rose window on the facade.
Today, the Music Hall serves as the musical center for Cincinnati. It is home for the Cincinnati Ballet, Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Opera, May Festival Chorus, and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra. So there are so many great performances you can watch here!
Part of the Music Hall was built over an 1800s Potter’s Field, which is a cemetery where poor, unidentified or unclaimed bodies were buried. In the early 1800s, the Cincinnati Orphan Asylum was built next to the site and eventually became a place where people with infectious diseases were held.
When excavations for the Music Hall began in 1876, human bones were discovered around the foundation. Later, over 200 pounds of bones were discovered during renovations at the Music Hall in 1927 and in 1988. And, even as recently as 2017, remains were found under the current orchestra pit. Wow!
Since then, various employees and watchmen have reported paranormal activities at the hall. Some have seen and heard spirits late at night. Others have heard the sound of unearthly music. And even creepier, there have been reports of people seeing children in period dress. What do you think? Could the Music Hall be haunted?
