The original Amityville Horror house is located at 112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, New York. However, its address has since been changed to deter unwanted attention, and the house has undergone significant renovations, making it visually distinct from its infamous appearance in the 1970s.
The True Address and its Significance
The infamous house that fueled the “Amityville Horror” narrative, a tale of alleged demonic activity that captivated the world, is indeed situated in the tranquil suburban community of Amityville, Long Island. While the exact address was once readily available, it’s now crucial to understand the modifications made to the property and the surrounding area, primarily to protect the current residents from the constant influx of curiosity seekers. The change underscores the profound impact the story had on the neighborhood and the continued fascination with the supernatural. The original address, 112 Ocean Avenue, is integral to the mythology surrounding the events that supposedly transpired there. It’s a landmark etched in the collective memory of horror enthusiasts and paranormal investigators alike.
The House Today: Modifications and Reality
The house at 112 Ocean Avenue has undergone significant renovations since the Lutz family occupied it in 1975. Most notably, the iconic quarter-moon windows on the third floor, which were perceived as resembling demonic eyes in photographs, have been removed. The exterior has also been altered, changing the facade and overall appearance. This remodeling was deliberately done to minimize its resemblance to the house portrayed in the book and films. While the structure itself remains, its identity as the “Amityville Horror” house is primarily rooted in its history and the stories associated with it, rather than its current physical form. This raises the essential question: does the location’s association with an alleged haunting outweigh the changes to its physical structure? For many, the answer is undoubtedly yes.
Understanding the Amityville Horror Phenomenon
The Amityville Horror is more than just a location; it’s a cultural phenomenon. It represents the confluence of tragedy, alleged paranormal activity, and the power of storytelling. The events surrounding the DeFeo murders and the subsequent claims of the Lutz family created a narrative that has resonated with audiences for decades. Whether one believes the story to be true, fabricated, or somewhere in between, its impact on the horror genre and popular culture is undeniable. It is essential to approach the subject with a critical eye, acknowledging the diverse perspectives and the lack of definitive proof supporting the alleged paranormal claims. The power of the Amityville story lies in its ambiguity and the space it allows for individual interpretation.
FAQs About the Amityville Horror
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the details surrounding the Amityville Horror house and its legacy:
What exactly happened at 112 Ocean Avenue before the Lutz family moved in?
The DeFeo family was murdered at the house on November 13, 1974. Ronald DeFeo Jr. shot and killed his parents, two brothers, and two sisters. This tragic event is the undeniable and horrific reality that precedes all paranormal claims.
How long did the Lutz family live in the Amityville house?
The Lutz family claimed to have lived in the house for just 28 days before fleeing, citing terrifying paranormal activity. Their short stay is a cornerstone of the Amityville Horror story.
What kind of paranormal activity did the Lutz family report?
The Lutz family reported a wide range of alleged paranormal phenomena, including cold spots, strange odors, moving objects, demonic voices, and terrifying visions. These claims are detailed in the book and films, but their veracity remains highly debated.
Has the Amityville house been occupied since the Lutz family left?
Yes, the house has been occupied by several families since the Lutz family departed. None of these subsequent residents have reported experiencing the same level of paranormal activity.
Did any investigations corroborate the Lutz family’s claims?
There have been various investigations, including those by paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, but no definitive scientific proof has ever been found to support the Lutz family’s claims.
Is the Amityville house considered a haunted location by paranormal experts?
Opinions vary widely within the paranormal community. Some believe it to be genuinely haunted, while others dismiss the claims as a hoax or exaggeration. The debate continues to this day.
How much did the Lutz family pay for the house?
The Lutz family purchased the house for a relatively low price of $80,000 due to the notoriety surrounding the DeFeo murders.
Has the address 112 Ocean Avenue been changed?
Yes, while the street number remains the same, the house’s appearance and surrounding landscaping have been significantly altered to discourage unwanted attention.
What is the current value of the Amityville Horror house?
The value of the house is difficult to determine precisely, as its notoriety could both increase and decrease its market value. However, similar properties in the area are typically worth well over a million dollars.
Are there any tours of the Amityville Horror house?
No, there are no official tours of the house. It is a private residence, and trespassing is strictly prohibited. Respect for the current residents’ privacy is paramount.
How accurate are the Amityville Horror movies and books?
The Amityville Horror movies and books are highly fictionalized accounts of the events described by the Lutz family. They should be viewed as entertainment rather than factual representations.
What is the legacy of the Amityville Horror story?
The Amityville Horror story has had a lasting impact on popular culture, influencing countless horror films, books, and television shows. It remains a fascinating and controversial example of the intersection of tragedy, the supernatural, and the power of storytelling. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of sensationalism and the importance of critical thinking.