Ghost Hunters of Urban Los Angeles

Amittyville 3D/Haunted House Experiment!

2018-08-24T12:48:00.001-07:00

GHOULA and 3D SPACE will be screening "AMITYVILLE 3D" (in 3D) outdoors next to an ACTUAL HAUNTED HOUSE for an evening of haunted house-themed entertainment, so

Calling all ghost-hunters, paranormal-investigators, psychics, sensitives, and those interested in possibly getting a glimpse of the "other side." Whether you are a seasoned pro or first-timer,...

WE WANT YOU...
for our first-ever "HAUNTED HOUSE EXPERIMENT!"

The Movie: Amityville 3D (Rated PG.)
The House: The Hale House (Heritage Square Museum)
The Date: September 29 (Saturday)
The Time: Walk-thru tours start 7:00 pm (The movie starts at 8:00pm)
The Location: Heritage Square Museum
3800 Homer St, Los Angeles, CA 90031 (map)

Admission: $13.00
(Click here for tickets...)

The Movie: Amityville 3D (1983) Join us for the 35th anniversary of the only feature-length haunted house movie shot in 3D, and arguably the best entry in the Amityville series. However, it is worth noting that because of a lawsuit between the Lutz family (the one-time owners of the infamous house) and the film's producer, and despite the use of the term 3D in the title which would imply it is the third film in the series (which it really was), Amityville 3D is technically not a sequel to other films and is supposed to be more of a stand-alone reboot with new characters. Regardless of its place in the franchise,, the novelty of three-dimensional ghosts is the real reason many aficionados feel this is an underrated classic. So, don't miss this unique chance to see orbs of ectoplasm float off the screen, toward the audience, and into the third dimension!

The Haunted House Experiment: We are putting the ghost lore of the Hale House (pictured below) to the test. Before watching this film about the ghosts of an old haunted house, you can tour this old (haunted) house and maybe have a paranormal experience yourself. If you are (un)lucky enough to actually see/hear/feel something, we want to know about it. As a participant of our "haunted house experiment," you will receive your own individual floor plan of said house (with a pencil), which will be used to record the location of any "activity" or "heebee-jeebees" you may experience as you walk through this house, room by room (ground floor only). Then, once you have past through all these possibly haunted spaces, please return your (hopefully marked-up) hand-out floor plan to GHOULA. Please keep your info confidential to discourage any copy-cat contamination.

Based on everyone's goose-flesh data, "hot spots" will be determined and revealed at the end of the screening. The actual stories associated with the house's ghost(s) will also be revealed, and compared to the collected data. Will there be one room, or area, that most people experience/feel something? If so, will that spot correspond with the known sightings in that house? Join us and find out... if you dare!

NOTE: This is not a themed "haunted attraction" with special effects and costumed actors. It is simply a walk through a haunted house to see what feelings it naturally evokes. Also, if you have "ghost-hunting" equipment/tools, you may bring them, and use them as you walk through the house, provided you do not interfere with the experience of others.

The Preshow: As if this all were not enough, the good people behind HAUNTED: A STAND UP / STORYTELLING SHOW will be providing additional entertainment as storytellers share even more haunted house tales for your macabre amusement hosted by...
REBECCA LEIB (NBC's "Hollywood Game Night, VICE, BUZZFEED,INVESTIGATION DISCOVERY) and JASON HORTON (Rachel Dratch's "Late NIght Snack," YOUTUBE celeb, BUZZFEED)
The line up of story tellers include...
JUDITH SHELTON ("Seinfeld," "The Middle," "The Gregory Hines Show')
ED GALVEZ ("Amigo Undead," "The Haunt" "Badass Bitches of History")
LINDSAY STIDHAM ("Douchebag," "Spooner," "Till Death Us Do Part,")
SARAH DORFMAN (Comedy Central, UCB-LA, The Improv)
BUCK BALL and TIFFANY ALEMAN

Ticket link...
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/amityville-3dhaunted-house-experiment-tickets-49667400532

SPIRITS with SPIRITS (Aug 13th, 2018)

2018-08-13T11:04:00.000-07:00

GHOULA meets for cocktails in haunted places on the 13th of the month. “SPIRITS with SPIRITS” is a casual social gathering of regional ghost-hunters and those that just like ghost stories. Open to all, from the curious skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. Make friends, and toast a ghost! Let's put the “Boo!” back into “booze.”

All those who attend will receive a free (square) GHOULA. button. If you already have one, please wear it so others can find you, without asking the staff about our group. (i.e. IF THIS IS YOUR FIRST TIME, LOOK FOR SOMEONE WITH A GHOULA BUTTON)

THE DATE: August 13th, 2018 (Monday)
THE PLACE: The Faculty
707 N Heliotrope Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90029 (Map)
THE TIME: 8:00pm to 10:00pm

THE GHOST(S):

During a recent visit to this neighborhood bar, GHOULA discovered that the staff was unaware of (or unwilling to talk about) their haunted reputation. In decades past, the sightings were so common that even the much beloved food critic Jonathan Gold, when reviewing the then restaurant at this location, made a passing reference to the building's resident "Hollywood ghost."

No one seems to know for sure how many restaurants/bars have occupied this humble structure, but it appears that this address applied for a liquor license at the end of Prohibition, which would indicate bottle service going back at least to the early 1930s (and possibly illegal hospitality before that). Given the building's long history, the ghostly young woman seen by (past) staff and patrons could realistically be anyone from any era.

That said, most believe "she" is the spirit of Nina Thoeren, the daughter of the screenwriter Robert Thoeren (who is best known for his involvement with Billy Wilder's "Some Like it Hot"). On a warm summer night in 1960, minutes after she ended her shift at her workplace, a bookstore on Melrose, while walking to her nearby apartment, the 21 year old was raped and murdered in a car parked on Heliotrope not far from the entrance of this tavern. It is unknown if she was forced into vehicle or if she went inside on her own (maybe to get a lift home). After her killer strangled her with her own red pants, he dragged her lifeless body across the street to hide it among the piles of lumber of a then college building under construction. The perpetrator of this ghastly crime was easily and quickly caught by the authorities.

Even though, this case was sensationalized in the local papers because of the "red slacks" angle and its possible connection/similarities to the "Bouncing Ball Murders" (a string of similar murders at the time in that area involving an unidentified man that would wait for his female victims to walk past while he bounced a rubber ball), this gruesome crime is largely a forgotten piece of this neighborhood's history. If it is remembered at all, it is because it inspired an infamous artwork (part visual/part performance) by Jean-Jacques Lebel called "Happening Funeral Ceremony of the Anti-Process" that was presented at Europe's first "Happening" in 1960 (shortly after her death), in which attendees/guests were asked to participate in a faux funeral for a sculpture of a murdered corpse.

Or, people (and very few now) remember this incident because her ghost still seems to linger on in the area of her murder, and isn't that part of the reason "ghost stories" persist as well. These are spoken tales that force society to confront tragic and shameful events that civic boosters would prefer we just forget. Does this female phantom just want people to remember her? Some cultures believe that the soul dies a second time when there is no one left to tell their story.

So come out, join us, share ghost stories, toast this ghost, and remember ... If you dare!

(to read about the last haunted location... )
(to see a map of previous SPIRITS with SPIRITS locations... )

Haunted Red Line Tour (Summer Edition)

2018-08-02T16:29:00.002-07:00

Yes, that's ghost stories combined with riding public transit. What could be scarier? Is there a better way to explore the haunted history of Los Angeles than by traveling underground from location to location via our very own (dead) Red Line Metro Subway?

We will meet-up at Union Station (the starting point for the Red Line) and then travel through 13 stops to the North Hollywood Station (at the end of the line), getting off and on along the way. In addition to Union Station and the North Hollywood Station, we will stop at few other stations, step off the train, rise to street-level, and discuss the ghosts and haunted sites visible from that spot before going back aboard to the next stop on our tour.

Come out and hear spooky tales about a spirit solider, a vanishing padre, and a ghostly car. As well as many other phantom figures from our past that haunt our present.
(see a review of this tour here...)

When: August 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th
(Every Sunday in August.)

Time: Tour starts at 6 pm (tour is about 3 hours)

Meeting Place: The palm tree-lined island in front of Union Station's main entrance.
800 North Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map)

Price: FREE (donation-based) tour

Note: you will need a Metro Pass ($7 for "Day Pass" + $1 for a "Tap Card")
Please purchase the Metro Pass (not a "Metrolink" ticket) before the meet-up to save time. The machines can be confusing, so look for metro day fare and not "add fare."

Your Guide: CONNOR BRIGHT

This paranormal historian has traveled the globe, working alongside experts in the field as well as film and television crews. She calls Los Angeles her home and the spirits of the city her friends. With her former partner she founded "What's Your Ghost Story?" an online community for people to share paranormal experiences and seek answers from experts. Connor has also worked with Los Angeles Hauntings Ghost Tours, guiding people through LA's haunted histories. It was through LA Hauntings that Connor met Richard Carradine of GHOULA when they collaborated on the Haunted Houdini Tour of Los Angeles. Connor looks forward to being your host on this year's GHOULA Red Line Metro Tour!

Parking: Since everyone participating in the tour will need a Metro Day Pass to ride the subway, it is advisable to park at one of the pay lots ($3.00) provided by the Metro at either the North Hollywood Station (our end point) or the Universal City Station (or any of the other lots on connecting Metro lines), and then just take the Subway to Union Station to meet-up with the group The lots around Union Station are expensive and they may close early. Free street parking is available around the North Hollywood station, but please read posted signs concerning parking regulations.

GHOSTS of OVERA STREET!

2018-07-03T17:16:00.001-07:00

A FREE WALKING TOUR of our historic pueblo!

Take this FREE tour of one of LA’s most haunted environments... if you dare!

The colorful shops and restaurants on Olvera Street are still homes to their first residents. Encounter the spirits and legends of the oldest "street" in Los Angeles. The tiny little pueblo still contains over 20 buildings and 100s of spirits. Find out where the lizard people hid their treasure and secrets. Discover the true story of Pio Pico’s hotel and its tragic history. Hear weeping widows. Learn the stories of haunted food, glowing crosses, and many more.

When: July 8th, 2018 (Sunday)

Time: (Tour #1) 5:00pm - 6:00pm (Tour #2) 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Meeting Place: The Pico House
424 N Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map)

Price: FREE (donation-based) tour

Note: Even though, walk-ups are welcome. Please RSVP (here).

Your Guide: CONNOR BRIGHT

Connor is a paranormal historian known as the “Paranormal Pixie”. She has traveled the globe, working alongside experts in the field as well as film and television crews. today she calls Los Angeles her home and the spirits of the city her friends. With her former partner she founded "What's Your Ghost Story?" an online community for people to share paranormal experiences and seek answers from experts. Connor has also worked with Los Angeles Hauntings Ghost Tours, guiding people through LA's haunted histories. Connor currently has been working alongside Richard Carradine of Ghost Hunters of Urban Los Angeles they have collaborated on the Haunted Houdini Tour of Los Angeles, she recently hosted GHOULA’s iconic Red Line Tour.

Night of the Living Head!

2018-06-14T11:13:00.001-07:00

GHOULA and the 3D Space
present another evening of movie manifestations and macabre marionettes.

"THE MASK" (1962)
(also known as "The Eyes of Hell")
Each attendee will receive an "Eyes of Hell" viewer absolutely FREE!
Without it... you are just another mortal.
With it... you can enter the weird world of a diabolical ancient cursed artifact!

DATE: July 7th, 2018 (Saturday) ONE NIGHT ONLY!
TIME: 7:00pm
WHERE: The Bob Baker Marionette Theater
1345 W 1st St Los Angeles, CA 90026 (Downtown) (map)
ADMISSION: $15.00 (to purchase tickets, click here...)

The original publicity for this cinematic assault announced "The forces of evil stalk their prey into the audience." So, is there a better place to screen this immersive nightmare than in a theater where puppets and performers also interact with the patrons?

That's right, not only will we be showing this cursed cult classic (a film that must be seen to be disbelieved), but there will also be a preshow featuring the enchanted Bob Baker marionettes and a dream-like solo performance by master puppeteer, Eli Presser.

But wait, there's more...

FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY! The Bob Baker Marionette Theater's party room will be transformed into a ghoulish gallery of cursed dolls. This one-of-a-kind paranormal exhibit will feature toys of terror from master puppeteer Eli Presser's personal collection of super-natural oddities. Yes, you will be in a room surrounded by actual haunted dolls! This will be the first time these "things" will be on public display. Don't miss this chance to be in their presence before they go back in the vault!

So, please join us for a night of celebrating prossessed objects with faces, and stare into the "eyes of hell"... If you dare...

WARNING: We are not responsible for nervous breakdowns. Attend at your own risk!

To purchase tickets, click on this link...
https://tickets.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?e=9803373aee57dbd965bc67f224ffc420&t=tix&vqitq=48583964-73ff-4df7-ab5f-9db500aafeeb&vqitp=78b94759-999a-420f-992c-62952e98a071&vqitts=1528999325&vqitc=vendini&vqite=itl&vqitrt=Safetynet&vqith=4e941fcb91af14e035a7ef5e5808d106

P.S. Did we mention this theater may be haunted? (for more about the theater's ghosts.)

SPIRITS with SPIRITS (June 13th, 2018)

2018-06-11T16:21:00.001-07:00

GHOULA meets for cocktails in haunted places on the 13th of the month. “SPIRITS with SPIRITS” is a casual social gathering of regional ghost-hunters and those that just like ghost stories. Open to all, from the curious skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. Make friends, and toast a ghost! Let's put the “Boo!” back into “booze.”

All those who attend will receive a free (square) GHOULA. button. If you already have one, please wear it so others can find you, without asking the staff about our group. (i.e. LOOK FOR SOMEONE WITH A GHOULA BUTTON)

THE DATE: June 13th, 2018 (Wednesday)
THE PLACE: Los Toros
21743 Devonshire St, Chatsworth, CA 91311 (Map)
THE TIME: 8:00pm to 10:00pm (3:00pm - 8:00pm is Happy Hour)

THE GHOST(S):

Chatsworth rests in the North-Western edges of the San Fernando Valley, in the shadow of some of the most picturesque rock formations in Los Angeles County. These vistas have been the backdrop for many movies, TV shows, and commercials, doubling for Old West locales and distant hostile planets. Not only are these same hills the site of a formerly top-secret rocket/missile testing base, but they have also served as the home (or hide-out) for numerous outlaws and fringe cults (including the infamous "Manson Family" that went on a killing spree in 1969). In addition to cowboys, padres, Native Americas, actors, rocket-scientists, bandits, zealots, and murders, this rocky area also has had numerous ghostly visitors over the years. Not only do large numbers of spirits roam the surrounding topography, but they also populate one of the neighborhood's most beloved landmarks.

Los Toros opened its doors in 1967, and for more than half a century they have been serving up Mexican food to the hungry locals. In that time, they have earned a reputation for having the best bean dip in the valley, as well as at least four resident ghosts and possibly many more. There are the apparitions of an older man and an older lady, who may greet you at the entrance, since this is where most of their sightings occur. It should be noted that although they haunt the same spot, they have not been seen together, and apparently take turns appearing to customers. Then there is the "well-dressed man" who spends his time in the after-life hanging around the restaurant's bar (wouldn't you). Lastly, there is a phantom female seen in the far ends of the restaurant, at the end of the night, seemingly clearing tables that had either not been used or were already cleaned earlier. Additionally, there are disembodied voices heard, cold spots felt, and objects moving by no visible means. whether these are from the before-mentioned spirits, or additional ones haunting this establishment is unknown. Likewise, the identity and motivations of the four most-seen ghosts is also a mystery, although it is presumed that the woman clearing the table is most likely a former waitress eternally finishing up her duties.

In 1969, a couple of years after they originally opened, two youths attempted to buy beer at the bar, and were turned away by the bartender for being under-aged. The hooligans returned later, after operating hours, with a fire bomb, and blew-up part of the restaurant. Although there were employees in the building at the time, no one was hurt in the explosion, and the culprits were easily caught and charged with arson. Could this traumatic event in the restaurant's history cause the residue energy within its walls? Speaking explosions, it has long been rumored that their have been many accidental explosions over the years at the secret base due to experiments with rocket fuel. Could Los Toros' ghosts be former aero-space engineers visiting the local hangout they enjoyed in life? Then again, like the supposed vanishing waitress, maybe these ghost are ex-employees still returning to their happy workplace long after they died. Who knows?

So come out, join us, share ghost stories, and toast this ghost... If you dare!

(to read about the last haunted location... )
(to see a map of previous SPIRITS with SPIRITS locations... )

SPIRITS with SPIRITS is BACK!!!

2018-05-09T13:52:00.000-07:00

GHOULA meets for cocktails in haunted places on the 13th of the month. “SPIRITS with SPIRITS” is a casual social gathering of regional ghost hunters and those that just like ghost stories. Open to all, from the curious skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. Make friends, and toast a ghost! Let's put the “Boo!” back into “booze.”

All those who attend will receive a free (square) GHOULA. button. If you already have one, please wear it so others can find you, without asking the staff about our group. (i.e. LOOK FOR SOMEONE WITH A GHOULA BUTTON)

THE DATE: May 13th, 2018 (Sunday)
THE PLACE: The Tonga Hut
12808 Victory Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91606 (Map)
THE TIME: 8:00pm to ? (4:00pm - 8:00pm is Happy Hour)

THE GHOST(S):

The Tonga Hut is considered the oldest "Tiki bar" in Los Angeles, opening in 1958. Much has been written about Tiki bars and their exotic rum-based fruity cocktails. There are many fans, books, and websites devoted to the artifacts and lifestyle associated with this post World War II era craze. So, the history and the facets of this topic can easily be found elsewhere. What is worth mentioning however is that some believe the resurgence of its popularity is because of this humble bar, which became a lightning rod for the preservation of this culture when fans discovered how far it had sunk in the 1980s with electronic dart boards and neon beer signs. Thankfully, as a result, The Tonga Hut has been restored and reimagined into this magical oasis in the desert of the San Fernando Valley.

This bar has also been on GHOULA's radar for more than a decade, so we are very glad we can finally visit it. A long time ago, when we started doing these meet-ups in haunted bars, we were given a tip that this North Hollywood gem may be haunted. So one night, two of us from GHOULA dropped in to do a little "research." After some time at the bar, we asked the bartender about ghosts. We were informed that "This bar is not haunted and there are no ghosts here." We pressed a little more, mentioning that most historic places have legends and rumors connected to them that add to their colorful history and so on. Again, we were told that "This bar is not haunted and there are no ghosts here."

We were about to drop the subject, when the patron sitting next to us (an elderly man) asked if we were looking for ghost stories. When we answered affirmatively, he told us that there was a long time regular of the bar that we should meet. With that, he called over an elderly woman with a drink in her hand. The man introduced us, and pleaded with her to tell us her ghost stories about the bar. As she was about to sit down and spill the beans, the bartender interrupted and said in a louder voice "This bar is not haunted and there are no ghosts here" and then added "and anyone who says otherwise... will be banned from the bar!" The older lady, scared from this threat, scurried away disappearing into the crowd. Our new friend turn his back on us and pretended we weren't there. The bartender then turned to us (GHOULA) and said these final words "I'm going to ask you to leave now." Not wanting trouble, we left without a ghost story.

Clearly we touched a nerve with this bartender, and clearly there was a ghost story. Henceforth, the Tonga Hut had always represented the one that got away. It was a great tavern that was apparently haunted, but we just couldn't get the story. We never did find out what those stories were, but thanks to the investigative work of James T. Bartlett, author of Gourmet Ghosts 2 (and friend of GHOULA), we finally have a ghost story to pin to this exotic landmark. As he published in his book, it seems that a long time regular of the establishment named Dottie passed away, and subsequently, after hours, a cleaner would have long conversations with Dottie's spirit while she did her nightly chores. Since the publication of that story, this tiki tavrrn has embraced their haunted side. Now, when someone asks about ghosts, they discuss their beloved resident spirit, Dottie. They even keep a seat reserved for "her" at the bar during their "Happy Hour."

One can not help but wonder if that patron we talked to so many years ago was this Dottie. Did the woman who was going to tell us a ghost story end up becoming the story herself? If so, sadly we may never find out the details of that original ghost story. So, whoever else might be haunting the Tonga Hut will have to remain a mystery. In the meantime, let's celebrate the ghost we do have, and have a drink at one of the most unique watering holes in LA.

So come out, join us, share ghost stories, and toast this ghost... If you dare!

(to read about the last haunted location... )
(to see a map of previous SPIRITS with SPIRITS locations... )

HAUNTED HOUSE TOUR!

2018-05-04T10:29:00.000-07:00

(Above-the William H. Perry Residence as it appeared a century ago in Boyle Heights.)

GHOULA'S HAUNTED HOUSE TOUR!
(Who wants to go inside a haunted house?)

THE DATE: May 26th, 2018 (Saturday)
THE PLACE: The Perry Mansion
3800 Homer St, Los Angeles, CA 90031 (Heritage Square Museum) (map)
THE TIMES: ~~6:00pm~~, ~~7:15pm~~, ~~8:30pm~~ (All Times SOLD OUT!)
(The tour is about an hour long.)
ADMISSION: $13.00

Due to the restrictions of this 142 years old historic landmark, we will only be able to bring small groups into this house, and we only have allowed access to three haunted areas inside the walls of this protected building.

NOTE: This is not a themed "haunted attraction" with special effects and costumed actors, nor is it a "ghost hunt" with psychics and equipment to record the presence of spirits. This is an evening of story-telling and an exploration of the buildings haunted lore... Simply put, This is an actual tour of an actual haunted house.

In a city known for its architecture, "house tours" are a common occurrence in Los Angeles. Although, there are many historic homes throughout the South-land with docent-led tours (who may mention rumors of hauntings), this in the very first "house tour" conducted in our city, where the focus is entirely on the ghostly inhabitants.

The "residence with the phantom presence" in question is the stately former home of William H. Perry (the largest house in Los Angeles when it was built in 1876), which is currently part of the Heritage Square Museum in the Arroyo Seco corridor. If you have ever taken the Pasadena Freeway (The 11O) between Downtown and Pasadena, then you have most likely seen it against the hills, next to the parkway, with the protected cluster of Victorian-era buildings. If you have ever wanted to pull off the freeway, go beyond those gates, and hear the strange stories the docents don't tell you. This is your chance...

Come join us on this one-of-a-kind HAUNTED HOUSE TOUR... if you dare!
...And if you dare, that house you normally drive past, will never look the same again!

BEYOND the STRINGS That Go Bump in the Night!

2018-03-23T11:19:00.002-07:00

GHOULA and the 3D Space
present an ALL NEW evening of marionettes and movie manifestations!

"13 GHOSTS" (1960) presented in ILLUSION-O
(Each attendee will receive a GHOST VIEWER absolutely FREE!)

DATE: April 28th, 2018 (Saturday) ONE NIGHT ONLY!
TIME: 6:00pm and 9:00pm (two shows)
WHERE: The Bob Baker Marionette Theater
1345 W 1st St Los Angeles, CA 90026 (Downtown) (map)
ADMISSION: SOLD OUT

In 196O, showman William Castle unveiled one of the greatest Los Angeles-centric haunted house movies of all time. Although this horror film went on to influence Stephen King, Scooby Doo, and Disneyland's Haunted Mansion, it's true claim to infamy is it's use of "ILLUSION-O." Theater patrons were given a "Ghost Viewer," which promised to "make ghosts appear and vanish before your very eyes, and at your command." Sadly, after its initial release, the Illusion-o gimmick was retired... Until now...

Now you can experience this unique (or rather BOO-nique) piece of cinema history. Not only can you see this masterpiece (or rather "macabre-piece") as William Castle intended with GHOST VIEWERS being made for this event, but also for the FIRST TIME EVER ANYWHERE audience members will receive a GHOST-SHAPED viewer like the one promised by Mr. Castle in the movie's trailer (see trailer). For unknown reasons, when the movie was released the viewer 's design had changed to a more rectangular shape. Don't miss out on this ghostly collector's item!

Like our previous "STRINGS That Go Bump in the Night" events, there will be a LIVE horror-themed marionette performance by the master puppeteers of the historic Bob Baker Marionette Theater preceding the screening of a film connected to the theater. Not only is this local enchanted oasis (while it lasts) the oldest indoor puppet theater in the United States, and just blocks away from the site of the Victorian West Addams mansion used in the film, but this humble showplace was one of William Castle's favorite spots in our city. Yes, these innocent marionette shows thrilled this famous thrill-maker. So, is there a better place to screen one of his classics? Also, did we mention that some say it may be... haunted. (for more about the theater's ghosts)

So, please Join us for this evening of eerie ectoplasmic entertainment with...

1.) Dr. Zorba
2.) The clutching hands
3.) The screaming woman
4.) The executioner
5.) The floating head
6.) Emilio
7.) His wife
8.) Her lover
9.) The flaming skeleton
10.) The lion tamer
11.) The lion
12.) The hanging woman
13.) ? (Will it be you?)

GHOULA's Annual Report

2018-02-28T15:40:00.000-08:00

(Alhambran F.E. Ormsby, creator of the 13 month calendar, 1929)

We're Back! As many of you have realized, GHOULA has been pretty quiet the last couple of years with the notable exception of having a presence at GHOULA's favorite Halloween Convention MIDSUMMER"S SCREAM. In 2016, we even curated an exhibition of haunted/cursed objects (Click here to see pictures of the exhibit).

Founder/organizer/guide/host Richard Carradine needed a little break from all these spooky events we were doing. Well, the break time is over, and its time to get back to work. GHOULA will be up and running again in 2018 with more new events (and some old favorite events). This is largely due to the help from another local ghost expert, Connor Bright (aka "The Paranormal Pixie"). Many of you met Connor on our resurrected Haunted Red Line Subway Tour last October. Richard will be taking a more behind the scenes role organizing the upcoming events, while Connor will take on the hosting/guiding duties.

The question that we are asked most often at GHOULA HQ is "When is SPIRITS with SPIRIT coming back?" So, let's address this first... We took a break from our monthly meet-ups in historic (haunted) bars to concentrate on other events we wanted to do, namely off-beat ghost events that celebrate the twisted history our city. That temporary hiatus continued when all events went on hiatus, and GHOULA took a break. This year we will bring back SPIRITS with SPIRITS in the six months leading up to October on the 13th of those months (starting May 13th).

As for the other planned events for 2018, you are going to have to wait and see. So, keep checking or blog (www.ghoula.org) and our facebook page, this is where we will announce these upcoming events. You can also sign up on our mailing list, and we'll send you an email with the info. Hope to see you soon.

WELCOME!

2018-02-17T15:19:00.000-08:00

In the event you have stumbled across this page, and know nothing about GHOULA. We are a social club dedicated to the preservation of greater L.A.'s rich haunted history, and the promotion and celebration of this local lore through ghostly gatherings, events, and publications. We are open to all, from the curious skeptic to the passionate phantom pursuer. In the past, we have done walking tours, bus tours, and even subway tours exploring our city's strangest ghost stories. We have produced theatrical revues in historic haunted locations (creepy puppet shows, free outdoor screenings, dances that conjure the spirits, etc). We have even published books about this stuff (see sidebar to the right). We have curated perfumes that bring to life LA's stinkiest phantoms, created exhibits of local haunted artifacts, but what people generally know us from are our meet-ups in haunted bars ("Spirits with Spirits"). Basically, we like to tell ghost stories about Los Angeles' darker history, while exploring our city. If you are in to that kind of stuff (and if you are still reading this, we're going to guess that you are), then we are the club for you! Please subscribe for our mailing list (upper left corner) and we will notify you about our next ghostly gathering. Thanks!

ALL A-BOOOO-OARD!

2017-09-26T13:48:00.001-07:00

Yes, that's ghost stories and public transit. What could be scarier? Is there a better way to explore the haunted history of Los Angeles than by traveling underground from location to location via our very own (dead) Red Line Metro Subway?

We will meet-up at Union Station (the starting point for the Red Line) and then travel through 13 stops to the North Hollywood Station (at the end of the line), getting off and on along the way. In addition to Union Station and the North Hollywood Station, we will stop at few other stations, step off the train, rise to street-level, and discuss the ghosts and haunted sites visible from that spot before going back aboard to the next stop on our tour.

Come out and hear spooky tales about a spirit solider, a vanishing padre, and a ghostly car. As well as many other phantom figures from our past that haunt our present.
(see a review of this tour here...)

When: October 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th
(Every Sunday in October)

Time: Tour starts at 6 pm (tour is about 3 hours)

Meeting Place: The palm tree-lined island in front of Union Station's main entrance.
800 North Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map)

Price: FREE (donation-based) tour

MIDSUMER SCREAM! 2016

2016-08-05T12:45:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all who came out to the Midsummer Scream Halloween Convention, and checked out our pop-up Museum of Paranormal History which focused on cursed or haunted memorabilia connected to Southern Californian ghost lore (pictured above with GHOULA founder Richard Carradine). Thanks to all the collectors that allowed us to show these unique objects and paintings, especially the San Fernando Valley Pioneer Cemetery which let us remove one of their haunted tombstones for the weekend. I'm happy to report, that despite the legends about these curious grave markers, no one was hurt while the memorial was transported, and sadly no ghost were seen as a result of its temporary displacement. Plus a special thanks to local authors Michael Aushenker, Victor Avila, and Marla Brooks for signing copies of their books about local ghosts. It is quite possible that last weekend could be the only time that all those local spooky items will ever be on display together, so we want to give the organizers of this amazing convention the biggest thanks of all for allowing us to create this paranormal project.

We had a blast and we will definitely be back next year! So. if you missed our Museum of Paranormal History, don't miss next year's all new exhibit!

Also thanks to the LA Weekly for their shout out to our collection of haunted artifacts!
photo by Jared Cowan
http://www.laweekly.com/slideshow/halloweens-horrors-and-haunts-emerged-early-for-midsummer-scream-7202199/31

GHOULA at Midsummer's Scream

2016-07-15T19:27:00.001-07:00

Midsummer Scream Halloween Festival
July 30 and 31, 2016
Long Beach Convention Center (map)
(for more info about the event and tickets... http://midsummerscream.org/ )

GHOULA's BOOTH - #137

GHOULA is honored to announce that we will be a part of this year's Midsummer Scream.
Midsummer Scream promises to be the ultimate gathering for an anticipated audience of over 5000 haunted attraction fans and professionals. Basically, this event caters to the people who travel throughout Southern California (and beyond) looking for fun/interesting things to do in (and around) October.

This year, there will be a section of the show floor, highlighting local "paranormal" destinations (ghost books, ghost tours, haunted placess, etc.) Really, what's Halloween without ghost stories. The Winchester Mystery House and the Queen Mary will be there, as well as other prominent groups, and authors of ghost guide books.

As if that were not enough....

---GHOULA will reveal upcoming events before they are publicly announced.
---GHOULA will be premiering two new ghost guide books from GHOULA Press.
--- GHOULA will have different guests at our booth througout the weekend.
--- GHOULA will curate an exhibition of haunted/cursed objects.
--- GHOULA will be presenting two panel discussions about ghost lore...

PANEL #1: Haunted Amusement Parks (SATURDAY )
PANEL#2: Haunted Bars (SUNDAY )

Additionally, this event also features:
-numerous "fun size" walk thru haunted attractions.
-workshops covering everything from special effects makeup and prop building
-classes covering ghost hunting and the business of haunts and horror
-presentations and discussions from the top names in the haunted attraction industry
-previews of all the October and Halloween events
-makeup demos, and countless creatures lurking in the halls.

As you can see, we're going to have a lot of fun. Please join us, and celebrate our regional ghost lore, and meet the people that do their best to bring it to you... If you dare!

MUSEUM OF PARANORMAL HISTORY!

2016-06-15T23:08:00.000-07:00

GHOULA WANTS YOU!
Calling all ghost-hunters, paranormal-investigators, and enthusiasts of the other-worldly...

GHOULA is curating an ecto-exhibit of one-of-a-kind "haunted" objects (mirrors, dolls, chairs, etc) to be displayed at the MIDSUMMER SCREAM Halloween festival in Long Beach as part of their Museum of Paranormal History. (Yes, the "Haunted VCR" will be there.)

Not only will this be the first time such an exhibit will ever be attempted in Los Angeles, it will be the largest collection of such items ever assembled in one place in California,
and YOU CAN BE A PART OF THIS PARANORMAL HISTORY...

If you have a haunted (or cursed) object, and you would like to have it on display at this unique event, please contact us at ghoulahq@live.com. Give us a description of the item, and the story attached. Thank you.

For tickets... http://midsummerscream.org/

GHOULA's Annual Report 2015

2016-01-18T16:37:00.003-08:00

(Alhambran F.E. Ormsby, creator of the 13 month calendar, 1929)

HAPPY BOOOOOOOOO YEAR!

GHOULA has many great things planned for the upcoming year.

But first, let's take a last look back at 2015.

The question that we were asked most often last year (as well as in 2014) was "When is SPIRITS with SPIRIT coming back?" So, let's address this first... We took a break from our monthly meet-ups in historic (haunted) bars to concentrate on other events we wanted to do, namely off-beat ghost events that celebrate the twisted history of our city. The temporary hiatus will continue thru 2016, so that we can focus on other events in mind for 2016. This is not the end however, "SPIRITS with SPIRITS" will return, since there are still so many haunted restaurants/bars we haven't been to yet.

The big news of last year was PHANTOSMIA, a collaboration with THE SMELLY VIALS PERFUME CLUB (of The Institute for Art and Olfaction). Since some ghost stories have a smell that accompanies the sighting (like Peg Entwistle’s ghost and her gardenia perfume) or not just a smell (like Orson Welles' phantom cigar smoke), we explored that idea with a celebration of LA's 13 smelliest ghost with kits that contained perfumes that recreate those spooky odors and a map of each location with the fragrant ghost stories.

GHOULA also conducted "Haunted House tours" of the very historic and very haunted Perry Mansion in Heritage Square, where we lead people through this Victorian era house, stopping in the haunted rooms to discuss the ghost stories of the building.

Last April, GHOULA collaborated with our friends at Captured Aural Phantasy Theater to create a tribute to the spooky puppet films of Kevin Mcturk at the world famous (haunted) Bob Baker Marionette Theater (oldest in the U.S.) called "Beneath the STRINGS that Go Bump in the Night."

Also in October, GHOULA (with the EPFC Filmmobile) brought back "Haunted Films in Haunted Places" with a special screening of "NIGHT STALKERS," a documentary about Los Angeles' local Ghost-hunting culture. The Filmmaker, Wayne Poe, was present to answer questions. The screening was held at the East end of Pasadena's (haunted) "Suicide Bridge."

Because of our group's LA-centric interest in the phantom folklore of this city, GHOULA once again participated in Los Angeles' Halloween Convention, ScareLA, where other groups and companies that create spooky content and events in October, got together under one roof to share (and promote) what would be happening in October with each other and the public. It was so much fun, GHOULA plans on returning next year.

GHOULA was also invited to tell ghost stories to our local journalists at the October meeting of the L.A. Press Club.

Last, but not least, last year GHOULA not only brought back its "Haunted Red Line Tour" (which uses the Metro to explore haunted areas of our city) in October, but we expanded it, offering tours throughout the summer as well.

2015 was a great year for GHOULA, and judging from the surprises that are in the works, 2016 will be even better.

PHANTOSMIA: Ghost Stories

2016-01-18T13:12:00.000-08:00

PHANTOSMIA: Ghost Stories
AN HISTORIC GUIDE TO THE AROMATIC APPARITIONS IN LA
(presented by GHOULA and the Institute for Art and Olfaction’s Smelly Vials Perfume Club)

Date: Thursday, December 10th
Time: party starts at 7pm
Location: The Institute for Art and Olfaction
932 Chung King Road, LA CA 90012 (map)
Admsission: The Party is FREE! (to RSVP click here)
Limited Edition "Phantosmia Maps" are $5 (see below)
"Ghost Smell Kits" are $60 (see below)

NOTE: Re-hosting due to popular demand. Drawing from Ghost Hunters of Urban LA’s extensive research into haunted Los Angeles, Phantosmia is a self-guided tour of the city’s famous and not-so-famous haunts – notable for their paranormal disturbances uniquely driven by scent. 6:30 to 8:30pm, at IAO HQ Pre-Order your kit, map, or just RSVP (Quanitities are very limited)

This is one of our most unusual ghostly events. Its a unique self-guided tour of local sites that are haunted by SMELL. So, come to the kick-off party and get a "Phantosmia Map" (and a "Ghost Smell Kit"), so you can go off on your own para-aroma adventure as we recreate the odors of 13 SMELLY GHOSTS !

"Phantosmia" (făn-tŏs′mē-ă) is the perception of an odor when no physical source is present, a phantom smell (also known as "clairscent"). Yes, with some ghost stories, in certain locations, people not only claim to see "something," but they may also smell "something" associated with that spirit. Furthermore, there are psychics that can smell a victim's perfume, and get "readings" of the crime, or be able to locate the body. Now, its time to put your abilities to the test...

What will you conjure up when exposed to the specific scents associated with these local spirits? From Peg Entwistle’s sweet gardenia perfume floating inexplicably around the Hollywood sign to the phantom smell of Rudolph Valentino’s horse, these ghost smells are sensorial reminders of the lurid, turbulent and baroque history of this City of Angels; where dreams come to be born and – just as often – die terrible, lonely and often painful deaths.

On October 3rd, 2015, join us for the kick-off party for our self-guided tour. At this "scent event," you will be able to purchase the limited edition "Phantosmia Map" and the "Ghost Smell Kits," or you can buy now (in case the limited quantities sell out). Then, at your leisure, you can explore the city’s famous and not-so-famous haunts – notable for their paranormal disturbances uniquely driven by scent.

The Limited Edition "Phantosmia Maps" designed by Micah Hahn (http://www.allies.la/) are $5 (while supplies last), and fold-out to reveal our guide to 13 aromatic apparitions of LA, with the locations and stories related to the hauntings.

The "Ghost Smell Kits" are $60 (while supplies last), containing thirteen ghostly scents created by The Smelly Viles Perfume Club in 3ml spray bottles (one for each stop on the self-guided tour) and the limited edition fold-out map to the locations with stories related to the hauntings, and a few extra goodies. (only a limited number of the kits were made, so if interested, get it now, before they are all gone).

As part of the project, guests are invited to visit each location on their own, experience the space with their haunted smells and collect a rubbing from the Phantosmia marker hidden nearby. Guests who visit all thirteen sites (and have the rubbings to prove it!) will be invited to a special blending session at the IAO, where they will be able to explore their own olfactory version of ghostly LA. experience.

LAST CALL!

2015-10-22T12:44:00.000-07:00

When: Sunday, October 25 (This is the last one until next year))

Time: Tour starts at 6 pm
(tour is about 3 hours)

Meeting Place: The palm tree-lined island (with the sun-dial) in front of Union Station
800 North Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map)

Price: FREE (donation-based) Tour
NOTE: Each person will need to purchase a Metro "Day Pass" ($7 + $1 "Tap Card"). Please purchase the Metro Pass (not a "Metrolink" ticket) before the meet-up to save time. The machines can be confusing, so look for metro "day fare" and not "add fare."

Parking: See below.

Los Angeles' lore is filled with tales of secret tunnels. Whether its supposed opium dens, rum-running passages, discontinued "Red Car" tunnels, munchkin transports, celebrity/mistress escape routes, or simply chambers belonging to a race of subterranean lizard people, many buildings and homes claim to be connected to other buildings and homes below street level (if only we could find their openings).

So, is there a better way to explore the haunted history of Los Angeles than by traveling underground from location to location via our very own (dead) Red Line Metro Subway with the other living dead of this city?

We will meet-up at Union Station (the starting point for the Red Line) and then travel through 13 stops to the North Hollywood Station (at the end of the line), getting off and on along the way. In addition to Union Station and the North Hollywood Station, we will stop at few other stations, step off the train, rise to street-level, and discuss the ghosts and haunted sites visible from that spot before going back aboard to the next stop on our tour.

Come out and hear spooky tales about a spirit solider, a vanishing padre, and a ghostly car. As well as many other phantom figures from our past that haunt our present.

(see a review of this tour here...)

Parking: Since everyone on the tour will need a Metro Day Pass to ride the subway, it is advisable to park at one of the FREE lots provided by the Metro at either the North Hollywood Station, our end point (map), or the Universal City Station (or any of the other free lots on connecting Metro lines), and then just take the Subway to Union Station to meet-up with the group (The lots around Union Station are expensive and may close early).

5th Annual Haunted Films at Haunted Places

2015-10-19T19:52:00.000-07:00

It's that time again...

...for our annual "Haunted Films at Haunted Places."

In a partnership with the Echo Park Film Center Filmmobile, we present a free outdoor screening of a horror film at an unusual location that is said to be haunted, and discuss that ghost lore before showing the film. All are welcome to this family-friendly event. Don't forget to bring chairs and flashlights.

Date: October 26th (Monday)
Time: movie starts at 8:00pm
Location: SUICIDE BRIDGE (Colorado St. Bridge)
East end of the bridge at Defenders Park, adjacent to...
1 S. Grand Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105 (Map)
Admission: FREE!
Movie: NIGHT STALKERS (2011)

NIGHT STALKERS is a documentary feature focusing on Southern California's paranormal investigators, and why they hunt ghosts. In addition to featuring several local ghost-hunting teams and haunted locations around town, the movie was granted unprecedented access to the inner-workings of these normally private groups, creating a unique glimpse in to this large nocturnal subculture of our city. Thus, NIGHT STALKERS is a an insightful time capsule of the paranormal investigation scene in Los Angeles of 2010.

WAYNE POE, the film's director, will be present at the screening for a Q and A afterward.

ALSO: For those interested in learning more about ghost-hunting, a demo and mini ghost-hunt of the haunted bridge will be conducted at 7:00pm (an hour before the movie) by Connor Bright and Scott Marcus from whatsyourghoststory.com.

ALL A-BOOOO-OARD!

2015-09-28T01:36:00.000-07:00

href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSTQ9vTrS6Ffy4tCpGyK93gjeW4K16TaFhrSVduTmHhbna-oGQkP2TwBP7UrEh_iYiAWpfcM9RbyX4PpXIeQARdyNpxhXZbGevUpYzDUb1r9qSSk31fjZ7X7ED1p5iNDeHCInum8ddRpAB/s1600/metro2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">

When: October 4th, October 11th, October 18th, October 25
(Each SUNDAY in October)

Time: Tour starts at 6 pm (tour is about 3 hours)

Meeting Place: The palm tree-lined island (with the sun-dial) in front of Union Station
800 North Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map)

Price: FREE (donation-based) Tour
NOTE: Each person will need to purchase a Metro "Day Pass" ($7 + $1 "Tap Card"). Please purchase the Metro Pass (not a "Metrolink" ticket) before the meet-up to save time. The machines can be confusing, so look for metro "day fare" and not "add fare."

Parking: See below.

Los Angeles' lore is filled with tales of secret tunnels. Whether its supposed opium dens, rum-running passages, discontinued "Red Car" tunnels, munchkin transports, celebrity/mistress escape routes, or simply chambers belonging to a race of subterranean lizard people, many buildings and homes claim to be connected to other buildings and homes below street level (if only we could find their openings).

So, is there a better way to explore the haunted history of Los Angeles than by traveling underground from location to location via our very own (dead) Red Line Metro Subway with the other living dead of this city?

We will meet-up at Union Station (the starting point for the Red Line) and then travel through 13 stops to the North Hollywood Station (at the end of the line), getting off and on along the way. In addition to Union Station and the North Hollywood Station, we will stop at few other stations, step off the train, rise to street-level, and discuss the ghosts and haunted sites visible from that spot before going back aboard to the next stop on our tour.

Come out and hear spooky tales about a spirit solider, a vanishing padre, and a ghostly car. As well as many other phantom figures from our past that haunt our present.

(see a review of this tour here...)

Parking: Since everyone on the tour will need a Metro Day Pass to ride the subway, it is advisable to park at one of the FREE lots provided by the Metro at either the North Hollywood Station, our end point (map), or the Universal City Station (or any of the other free lots on connecting Metro lines), and then just take the Subway to Union Station to meet-up with the group (The lots around Union Station are expensive and may close early).

Hunt Ghosts with Your Nose!

2015-09-27T23:41:00.000-07:00

PHANTOSMIA
AN HISTORIC GUIDE TO THE AROMATIC APPARITIONS IN LA

(presented by GHOULA and the Institute for Art and Olfaction’s Smelly Vials Perfume Club)

Date: Saturday, October 3rd
Time: Kick-off party starts at 5pm
Location: The Institute for Art and Olfaction
932 Chung King Road, LA CA 90012 (map)
Admsission: The Party is FREE! (to RSVP click here)
Limited Edition "Phantosmia Maps" are $5 (see below)
"Ghost Smell Kits" are $60 (see below)

This is one of our most unusual ghostly events. Its a unique self-guided tour of local sites that are haunted by SMELL. So, come to the kick-off party and get a "Phantosmia Map" (and a "Ghost Smell Kit"), so you can go off on your own para-aroma adventure as we recreate the odors of 13 SMELLY GHOSTS !

"Phantosmia" (făn-tŏs′mē-ă) is the perception of an odor when no physical source is present, a phantom smell (also known as "clairscent"). Yes, with some ghost stories, in certain locations, people not only claim to see "something," but they may also smell "something" associated with that spirit. Furthermore, there are psychics that can smell a victim's perfume, and get "readings" of the crime, or be able to locate the body. Now, its time to put your abilities to the test...

What will you conjure up when exposed to the specific scents associated with these local spirits? From Peg Entwistle’s sweet gardenia perfume floating inexplicably around the Hollywood sign to the phantom smell of Rudolph Valentino’s horse, these ghost smells are sensorial reminders of the lurid, turbulent and baroque history of this City of Angels; where dreams come to be born and – just as often – die terrible, lonely and often painful deaths.

On October 3rd, 2015, join us for the kick-off party for our self-guided tour. At this "scent event," you will be able to purchase the limited edition "Phantosmia Map" and the "Ghost Smell Kits," or you can buy now (in case the limited quantities sell out). Then, at your leisure, you can explore the city’s famous and not-so-famous haunts – notable for their paranormal disturbances uniquely driven by scent.

The Limited Edition "Phantosmia Maps" designed by Micah Hahn (http://www.allies.la/) are $5 (while supplies last), and fold-out to reveal our guide to 13 aromatic apparitions of LA, with the locations and stories related to the hauntings.

The "Ghost Smell Kits" are $60 (while supplies last), containing thirteen ghostly scents created by The Smelly Viles Perfume Club in 3ml spray bottles (one for each stop on the self-guided tour) and the limited edition fold-out map to the locations with stories related to the hauntings, and a few extra goodies. (only a limited number of the kits were made, so if interested, get it now, before they are all gone).

As part of the project, guests are invited to visit each location on their own, experience the space with their haunted smells and collect a rubbing from the Phantosmia marker hidden nearby. Guests who visit all thirteen sites (and have the rubbings to prove it!) will be invited to a special blending session at the IAO, where they will be able to explore their own olfactory version of ghostly LA. experience.

Due to USPS regulations we are unable to ship kits – they are only available for pick-up only.

ABOUT THE SMELLY VIALS PERFUME CLUB Smelly Vials Perfume Club (SVPC) is a collaborative perfume club rooted in an ethos of experimentation, knowledge-sharing and a gonzo approach to creativity and learning. SVPC is a program of The Institute for Art and Olfaction, a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization based in Los Angeles. More information

4th Annual Peg Entwistle Memorial Hike

2015-09-15T01:44:00.000-07:00

HIKE AT YOUR OWN RISK!
Due to the high temperatures and limited access, everyone is on their own for this. We recommend that if you plan on going, bring water, and hike with a buddy.

On September 16th, 1932, Peg Entwistle committed suicide by hiking up to the Hollywood sign, and jumping of the "H," not only ensuring her name would live on in infamy, but likewise becoming Hollywood's most famous spirit. Come out and join us for a self-guided hike along that haunted trail to Hollywood's most famous haunted landmark (which celebrates it 92th anniversary this year), and meet-up behind the "H," if you dare...

THE DATE: September 16th, 2015 (Wednesday)
(on the anniversary of her death)
THE PLACE: Behind the "H" of the Hollywood Sign
(Directions to the "H" are below)
THE TIME: 5:00pm - 7:00pm (Sunset)
(meet us at the top)

NOTE: Since everyone goes at their own speed, and everyone will be arriving at different times after work, there is no set meet-up time. We will just be hanging out at the sign during the time mentioned above. The hike is normally about 3-4 miles (round trip) and takes about 1-2 hours (round trip), but see "NOTE" (and updated directions) below. Also, there is no organized paranormal investigation included in this hike, but local ghost-hunters are welcome to bring their own equipment, and investigate on their own if they wish.

THE GHOSTS:

"I was hiking near the Hollywood sign today, and near the bottom I found a woman's shoe and jacket. A little further on I noticed a purse. In it was a suicide note. I looked down the mountain and saw a body...."
--- Anonymous call to the Hollywood Police Station

82 years ago, this September, a sad, depressed, possibly drunk, unemployed actress left her home on Beachwood Drive and started walking up the road to the Hollywood sign. She had been completely cut out of a RKO movie that was to be her big break in Hollywood. On that treacherous hike, that probably took her most of the night, she eventually made it to her destination, the fifty-foot letter "H" at the beginning of the internationally recognized Hollywood sign (then the Hollywoodland Sign). She climbed a ladder that was attached to the backside of the flat metal structure, and leaped to her death once she reached the top. It is thought that she did not die instantly, but instead lingered for hours in the brush below, where her corpse was eventually discovered by hikers. For a short time she was simply known as "The Hollywood Sign Girl," until her published suicide note was recognized by her uncle. Her name was Peg Entwistle.

When people tell her tale, they always point out the ironic twist that occurred shortly after her death, a letter arrived at her address, stating that she had landed the lead role in a high-profile play about a woman who commits suicide. However, there's the bigger (more obvious) irony. This act of desperation over the lack of a show-biz career, ended up making her more famous (or infamous) than any of her working contemporaries. Not everyone can easily name the stars of the early 1930's, but most people know the Hollywood Sign Girl.

Her legend seems to grow with each passing year, and as it does, so do the stories of her restless ghost near the famous landmark. Most people describe her apparition as a young woman dressed in a 1930's style white gown walking along a trail (sometimes dazed). She is most commonly seen by hikers (not unlike those that originally found her body) and dog walkers in the very early or very late hours. Witnesses claim that she is accompanied by the strong scent of the gardenia flower (her favorite perfume). Some accounts even describe her reenacting her final moments stepping off of the top of the "H" only to vanish as she falls. She seems doomed to repeat the last moments of that last night over and over again, just as we also seemed doomed to repeat those last moments with each retelling of her story. (for more info about the ghost of Peg Entwistle...)

NOTE (and updated directions): Because the surrounding neighborhood has complained about traffic, the city might cut off the closest access points to the public trails (even for pedestrians). As a result, you might not be able access the Hollywood Sign from Beachwood Canyon, so please consult a map. It appears the next best way to get to the Hollywood Sign is to follow Canyon Dr. up the hill to the end, and park in the lot (as if you were going to the famous Bronson Cave). That paved road turns into a trail. Follow the trail extension from Canyon Dr up the hill til it dead-ends at the Mulholland Hwy (trail), and go left on this trail as it zigs-zags across the mountains until you get to a split in this trail. Follow the right-side trail that goes up hill (and not the left downward one). Once on that new trail, follow it (going towards the Hollywood sign) until it dead ends at a paved road (Mt. Lee Drive). Turn right on the paved road, seemingly away from the Hollywood sign. The road will take you up the backside of Mt. Lee, offering great views of the San Fernando Valley and Forest Lawn Cemetery, to the top of the mountain and a dramatic reveal of the Hollywood sign, the same view Peg Entwistle had before she jumped (incidentally Peg's studio, RKO, is dead center in this view). Below is a link to a map, which you should study, before going out there, since its very easy to get turned around out there on the trails (and there is limited cell reception up there.) There's another route that's shorter but more difficult... Park on Lake Hollywood Dr. (at Wonder View Dr.). Walk up Wonder View Dr. to Trail Head, and take the "Tree of Life" Trail along the ridgeline to the Hollywood Sign. Again, consult a map before attempting.
(for more info on alternate ways to the Hollywood Sign...)

DIRECTIONS: (See "NOTE" and updated directions above) Follow N. Beachwood Drive up the hill to the end (just before the "Sunset Ranch Hollywood" stables). You'll see cars parked around a trail head, so park anywhere you can. Follow (on foot) the dirt trail up and along the ridge adjacent to the stables. Cell phone reception is not very good up there, so note the directions before you set off on foot. This trail will merge into a larger trail (Mulholland Hwy). Make a hairpin turn left (South-West) on this new trail, and follow it (going towards the Hollywood sign) until it dead ends at a paved road (Mt. Lee Drive). Turn right on the paved road, seemingly away from the Hollywood sign. The road will take you up the backside of Mt. Lee, offering great views of the San Fernando Valley and Forest Lawn, to the top of the mountain and a dramatic reveal of the Hollywood sign, the same view Peg Entwistle had before she jumped (incidentally Peg's studio, RKO, is dead center in this view). Below is a link to a map, which you should study, before going out there, since its very easy to get turned around out there on the trails.

View Larger Map

Phantosmia!

2015-09-02T18:01:00.000-07:00

ANOTHER HAUNTED HOUSE TOUR!

2015-08-06T00:38:00.000-07:00

(Above-the William H. Perry Residence as it appeared a century ago in Boyle Heights.)

GHOULA'S HAUNTED HOUSE TOUR!
(Who wants to go inside a haunted house?)

THE DATE: September 13th, 2015 (Sunday)
THE PLACE: The Perry Mansion
3800 Homer St, Los Angeles, CA 90031 (Heritage Square Museum) (map)
THE TIMES: 6:00pm, 7:15pm, 8:30pm (The tour is about an hour long.)
ADMISSION: $13.00 (SOLD OUT)

Due to the restrictions of this 139 years old historic landmark, we will only be able to bring small groups into this house, and we only have allowed access to three haunted areas inside the walls of this protected building.

NOTE: This is not a themed "haunted attraction" with special effects and costumed actors, nor is it a "ghost hunt" with psychics and equipment to record the presence of spirits. This is an evening of story-telling and an exploration of the buildings haunted lore... Simply put, This is an actual tour of an actual haunted house.

In a city known for its architecture, "house tours" are a common occurrence in Los Angeles. Although, there are many historic homes throughout the South-land with docent-led tours (who may mention rumors of hauntings), this in the very first "house tour" conducted in our city, where the focus is entirely on the ghostly inhabitants.

This event was inspired by Walt Disney's original vision of Disneyland's Haunted Mansion, which involved taking small groups of people through an "old house," telling ghost stories along the way. Although that initial concept was rejected, GHOULA has always liked that idea and for the past couple of years has searched for a local house that had enough tales to tell to justify such a tour (and whose caretakers would let us tell them).

The "residence with the phantom presence" in question is the stately former home of William H. Perry (the largest house in Los Angeles when it was built in 1876), which is currently part of the Heritage Square Museum in the Arroyo Seco corridor. If you have ever taken the Pasadena Freeway (The 11O) between Downtown and Pasadena, then you have most likely seen it against the hills, next to the parkway, with the protected cluster of Victorian-era buildings. If you have ever wanted to pull off the freeway, go beyond those gates, and hear the strange stories the docents don't tell you. This is your chance...

Come join us on this one-of-a-kind HAUNTED HOUSE TOUR... if you dare!
...And if you dare, that house you normally drive past, will never look the same again!

HAUNTED Red Line Tour!

2015-06-25T11:59:00.002-07:00

When: June 28th, July 26th, August 30th, September 27th
(Each "Last Sunday" this summer)

Time: Tour starts at 7 pm (tour is about 3 hours)

Meeting Place: The palm tree-lined island in front of Union Station
800 North Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 (map)

Price: FREE (donation-based) Tour
NOTE: Each person will need to purchase a Metro "Day Pass" ($7 + $1 "Tap Card"). Please purchase the Metro Pass (not a "Metrolink" ticket) before the meet-up to save time. The machines can be confusing, so look for metro "day fare" and not "add fare."

Parking: See below.

Los Angeles' lore is filled with tales of secret tunnels. Whether its supposed opium dens, rum-running passages, discontinued "Red Car" tunnels, munchkin transports, celebrity/mistress escape routes, or simply chambers belonging to a race of subterranean lizard people, many buildings and homes claim to be connected to other buildings and homes below street level (if only we could find their openings).

So, is there a better way to explore the haunted history of Los Angeles than by traveling underground from location to location via our very own (dead) Red Line Metro Subway with the other living dead of this city?

We will meet-up at Union Station (the starting point for the Red Line) and then travel through 13 stops to the North Hollywood Station (at the end of the line), getting off and on along the way. In addition to Union Station and the North Hollywood Station, we will stop at few other stations, step off the train, rise to street-level, and discuss the ghosts and haunted sites visible from that spot before going back aboard to the next stop on our tour.

Come out and hear spooky tales about a spirit solider, a vanishing padre, and a ghostly car. As well as many other phantom figures from our past that haunt our present.

(see a review of this tour here...)

Parking: Since everyone on the tour will need a Metro Day Pass to ride the subway, it is advisable to park at one of the FREE lots provided by the Metro at either the North Hollywood Station, our end point (map), or the Universal City Station (or any of the other free lots on connecting Metro lines), and then just take the Subway to Union Station to meet-up with the group (The lots around Union Station are expensive and may close early).