Villisca Axe Murder House: A Haunting Mystery
Unravel the mystery at the Villisca Axe Murder House, one of America's most haunted locations and the site of an unsolved 1912 tragedy.
The Villisca Axe Murder House stands as a chilling reminder of a brutal and unsolved crime that shook the small town of Villisca, Iowa, in 1912. On the night of June 10th, eight people – Josiah and Sarah Moore, their four children, and two young visiting friends – were murdered in their sleep with an axe. The crime remains one of Iowa's most enduring mysteries, captivating paranormal investigators, history buffs, and true crime enthusiasts alike. The house itself has been carefully restored to its 1912 appearance, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Moore family before the tragedy. There's no electricity or running water to maintain historical accuracy. Visitors can take daytime tours or, for the truly brave, spend the night in what is considered one of America's most haunted houses. Many have reported unexplained phenomena, fueling the house's reputation as a paranormal hotspot. The Villisca Axe Murder House offers a unique and unsettling experience, inviting visitors to confront the darkness of the past and ponder the enduring mystery of the Villisca axe murders.
Local tips
- Book your tour or overnight stay in advance, especially during peak season, as spots fill up quickly.
- Be prepared for a rustic experience during overnight stays, as the house has no electricity or running water.
- Consider renting an EMF detector to enhance your paranormal investigation experience during your visit.
- Check out the Villisca Cemetery: Tombstone and Town Tour via the Junket App for a GPS-guided audio tour.
A brief summary to Villisca Axe Murder House
- 508 E 2nd St, Villisca, Iowa, 50864, US
- +1712-250-5122
- Visit website
- Monday 11 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Getting There
-
Driving
The Villisca Axe Murder House is located at 508 E 2nd St, Villisca, IA 50864. From Villisca's main thoroughfare, US-71, turn east onto E 2nd St. The house will be on your right. Parking is available on the street. Be mindful of residential neighbors. There are no tolls on the immediate approach. Parking is free on the street.
-
Walking
From most locations in Villisca, the house is easily accessible on foot. From the Montgomery County Historical Society, head east on 4th St, then turn right onto S findlay Ave, then turn left onto E 2nd St. The Villisca Axe Murder House will be on your left. There are no costs associated with walking.
