ROLLING HILLS ASYLUM

Earlier this month I had the pleasure of joining my paranormal investigation team on a trip to the Rolling Hills Asylum in East Bethany, New York. For seasoned ghost enthusiasts, this location needs no introduction. Many popular and televised teams have come to this property in the past. The team I’m on was incredibly excited to explore a place as iconic as this. 

But perhaps a short history lesson is in order, first. Rolling Hills was built in 1827 as the Genesee County Poor Farm. Residents, inhumanely known as “inmates” included orphans, the elderly, mentally disabled individuals. Essentially anyone who was deemed “unfit” for respectable society. Over the years, housing was opened up to widows, criminals, and the physically disabled. Anyone who lived at Rolling Hills, or another poor farm, was expected to work in some capacity to earn their keep. 

Advancements in mental health evolved, albeit slowly, and Rolling Hills was converted into an asylum during the late 1800s. Despite this evolution, treatments and conditions were severely lacking. Rolling Hills was plagued by overcrowding, inhumane conditions, and primitive treatments. Many people lived and died within its walls. The property was eventually converted into various commercial endeavors, including a museum, until it officially closed in 1974. 

Rolling Hills was later purchased and has reopened as a very popular, and active, paranormal destination for the morbidly curious. And I am happy to say I had the opportunity to visit. 

Now, given the nature and history of this location, it’s easy to say Rolling Hills gives out fairly creepy vibes. Especially in rooms where original furniture remains intact. That being said, there weren’t any particular rooms or areas that gave off negative energy. I never felt scared to venture into any area, even when alone. I don’t say that to sound cool or brag, or shit like that. I just want to emphasize that any residual spirits in this place don’t feel particularly malicious. 

Our team is still combing through our EVP evidence, but Rolling Hills was active in a plethora of ways. Trip wires, flashlights, and motion activated cat balls seem to be particular favorites among the spirits here. Oftentimes they’d activate lights in direct response to our questions. Using the Estes Method, we quickly learned that several spirits at Rolling Hills have a biting (fantastic) sense of humor, including former resident Roy, William the former barber, and one unnamed entity who resides in the basement. My favorite exchange of the night was when I verbalized that we couldn’t see the spirit who hung out near the bathtub, to which he replied, “no shit.” 

All in all, this was a fantastic paranormal location, and well worth the time and energy to get there. If you ever intend on visiting Rolling Hills, I suggest a lot of motion activated equipment, an EVP recorder, and a good sense of humor. You won’t be sorry you went.