Spirits Stir in Williams: Museum's Haunted House a Hit
COLUSA, Calif. — The Sacramento Valley Museum sits in the Old Williams High School, built in 1911, where locals whisper about spirits. A dark shadow here. A creeping feeling there. A creaking door to add a little fright. Some time ago, a donated Raggedy Ann doll that resembles the infamous Annabelle planted the idea for a haunted house.
Museum director Elijah Rodriguez asked the community for Halloween décor to test the concept. A few items arrived, including pieces from community member Resa Lynn, with most supplied by Rodriguez’s partner.
Rodriguez then recruited Williams High School students to staff the haunted house for community service hours.
Volunteers planned scenes and chose their posts.
“I gave the volunteers creative freedom,” Rodriguez said. “I shared a few ideas, but they picked the direction and made it happen.”
On Thursday, Oct. 30, the museum opened its haunted doors alongside the Williams Trunk or Treat. Admission was $5 per person.
Guests entered through the basement, climbed to the main floor and exited through the front, Rodriguez said.
Inside, students triggered jump scares with strobe lights, old school bells, music and sudden shouts. Some wore costumes. Others used masks and face paint.
Crowds topped 200, Rodriguez said.
“Everyone seemed to have a great time,” Rodriguez added. “Some kids tried to say they weren’t scared, but their parents said they caught a video that proved otherwise. We even had one group go through seven times.”
When it came to “Annabelle” there was much curiosity.
“We were asked a lot if it was the real doll,” Rodriguez said. “I left it up to their imagination.”
Rodriguez thanked Joe, Tim, Resa and Fredo for helping bring the vision to life.
“I am already planning and can’t wait to do it again next year,” Rodriguez said.
