Haunted Hayloft, Rockwood

A Chat with Haunted Hayloft

What was the inspiration to start or run this business?

It was a cold winter evening in February 1889 when Herman Umberger and his family finished their dinner. How strange it must have been to hear a knock on the door at this late hour. Little did Herman know that his death lurked outside the dining room of his own home. The intended robbery turned into murder as shots rang out when the innocent farmer tried to protect his hard earned gold pieces. The maid ran frantically into the corn field while Mrs. Umberger pulled madly on the dinner bell in a desperate call for help. It was too late... Joseph and David Nicely were eventually apprehended and charged with the murder. Repeated escapes from the jailhouse were aimed at proving their innocence but the brothers luck ran out when they were found near the barn located in this small town. They were hung side by side at the Somerset County Jailhouse in April, 1891. The week following the hanging, a written confession was received by the judge indicating the wrongful death of one, or perhaps both of the Nicely's. Their restless spirits surfaced so many times at The Hayloft that it was found necessary to move the haunt to another location a few miles away. Instead of calming the brothers, the move maddened them even more and they returned with a vengeance to The Haunted Hayloft. Will you escape The Haunted Hayloft as you experience the presence of Joseph and David, witness the night of the tragedy, and walk through their hell? And even if you do, will you ever be the same?

Reservations/Appointments: Optional

Established: 2008

Staff Size: 50+ people

Average Duration of Services: 1–2 hours

Parking: Parking lot

Recommended Age Group: All Ages

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable clothing, old shoes, and be prepared to have fun.

Most Popular Attraction/Offering: Two floors of frights, rain or shine

Q&A with Elizabeth, Owner

When and how did you first develop a passion for your work?

The spirits made their presence on a regular basis, forcing us to finally deal with their story.

As the old adage says, "Stuff happens." What training do you and your staff have to stay ahead of the unexpected?

PA inspection certifications, professional actors, creative geniuses, and attendance at many conventions and classes to be informed.

What is the experience customers can expect, and how do you make it special?

At this historic multi-floor haunt, try to survive terrifying attractions, special effects, and the return of the Nicely Brothers who seek their vengeance.

Is there anything else you want to add that we didn't cover?

Vengeance at The Haunted Hayloft offers two floors of indoor frights, cornmaze, Train of Terror, food, fires, and more.