'The Haunted Fortress' returns to Old Fort Niagara

Old Fort Niagara's centuries-old buildings offer more than a few ghost stories, from the headless ghost that reputedly haunts the 1726 French Castle to unexplained shadows, slamming doors, and eerie orbs. Area residents will have their opportunity to experience the fort's dark and mysterious past during "The Haunted Fortress," set for Saturday nights, Oct. 19 and 26.

The event offers visitors a nocturnal tour of the fort, complete with animated ghosts from the fort's violent past. Visitors also visit a bonfire and hear true stories of unexplained supernatural sightings on the fort grounds. As a finale, fort volunteers will offer tours of the post's graveyard, which dates back to 1755.

This year's theme focuses on the year 1813 when the fort fell into British hands during the War of 1812. As part of their tour of the fort's dark stone corridors, visitors will encounter unfortunate souls who met a violent end during the British assault of Dec. 19, 1813.

Tickets for "The Haunted Fortress" are available in advance by calling 716-745-7611 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission to the event is $13 per person. Advance reservations and payment are required. The tour is not recommended for children under 8 years of age. Visitors are encouraged to wear walking shoes. Proceeds from this fundraising event benefit Old Fort Niagara's educational programming.

Old Fort Niagara is located in Youngstown, 14 miles north of Niagara Falls via the Robert Moses Parkway North. The fort opens at 9 a.m. daily, and is open until 5 p.m. during the winter months (admissions end at 4:30 p.m.).