The infamous Amityville Horror house, a symbol of suburban terror, was built in 1927. However, its history extends far beyond the tragic events that solidified its place in paranormal lore.
A Deep Dive into the Amityville House
The house at 112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, New York, stands as a stark reminder of both human tragedy and the enduring power of suggestion. While often associated solely with the alleged paranormal activity experienced by the Lutz family in 1975, understanding the house’s complete history, including its construction and subsequent owners, provides a more nuanced perspective.
Architectural Origins and Early History
The house’s construction in 1927 predates its association with horror by nearly half a century. It was built in the Dutch Colonial style, a popular architectural choice in the area, characterized by its distinctive gambrel roof, spacious interiors, and large windows. Original architectural plans and records reveal that the house was initially commissioned by John and Catherine Moynahan, not the DeFeo family, as is often mistakenly assumed.
The early years of the house were relatively unremarkable. It served as a private residence, housing various families before being purchased by the DeFeos. Understanding these early ownership periods provides context, removing the layer of sensationalism that has often obscured the house’s true history. It was a family home, like many others in the neighborhood, before the horrific events of 1974.
The DeFeo Murders: A Turning Point
The house’s idyllic existence shattered on November 13, 1974, when Ronald DeFeo Jr. murdered his parents, two brothers, and two sisters. This event irrevocably changed the house’s identity, transforming it from a simple suburban residence into a site of unimaginable horror. The brutal nature of the crime captivated the nation and laid the groundwork for the subsequent paranormal claims.
The Crime Scene and Aftermath
The sheer scale of the tragedy – six family members murdered in their beds – shocked the community and beyond. Police investigation revealed that DeFeo used a .35 caliber Marlin rifle to carry out the killings. The trial that followed, and DeFeo’s subsequent conviction, further cemented the house’s notoriety. Even before the Lutz family moved in, the house was already burdened with a dark and disturbing history.
The Lutz Family and the “Amityville Horror”
In December 1975, George and Kathleen Lutz, along with their three children, purchased the house for a significantly reduced price, knowing of its dark past. They hoped to start anew, but their 28-day stay turned into a living nightmare, or at least, that’s the story they told.
Alleged Paranormal Activity
The Lutz family claimed to have experienced a series of terrifying events, including cold spots, foul odors, moving objects, and even demonic apparitions. Their experiences were documented in the book “The Amityville Horror,” written by Jay Anson, which quickly became a bestseller and spawned a successful film franchise.
Skepticism and Controversy
The Lutz family’s claims have been met with skepticism and controversy from the beginning. Many investigators have pointed out inconsistencies in their story and have suggested that the events were either fabricated or greatly exaggerated for financial gain. Regardless of the truth, the “Amityville Horror” catapulted the house to international fame and cemented its place in paranormal folklore.
Subsequent Owners and the House Today
Following the Lutz family’s departure, the house was purchased by several other owners who reported no paranormal experiences. This fact is often overlooked in the popular narrative, which tends to focus solely on the Lutz family’s account. The house has been remodeled and renovated over the years, but its exterior remains largely recognizable.
Ongoing Fascination
Despite the lack of verifiable evidence of paranormal activity and the skepticism surrounding the Lutz family’s claims, the Amityville Horror house continues to fascinate people around the world. It serves as a reminder of the power of suggestion, the human capacity for both good and evil, and the enduring appeal of the unknown.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3 What architectural style is the Amityville Horror house?
The house is built in the Dutch Colonial style, characterized by its distinctive gambrel roof and symmetrical facade. This style was popular in the Long Island area during the early 20th century.
H3 Who originally commissioned the construction of the house?
The house was originally commissioned by John and Catherine Moynahan in 1927, not the DeFeo family.
H3 How much did the Lutz family pay for the house?
The Lutz family purchased the house in December 1975 for approximately $80,000, a significantly reduced price due to the notoriety of the DeFeo murders.
H3 How long did the Lutz family live in the house?
The Lutz family only resided in the house for 28 days before fleeing, claiming to have experienced intense paranormal activity.
H3 What were some of the alleged paranormal events experienced by the Lutz family?
The Lutz family claimed to have experienced a range of paranormal phenomena, including cold spots, foul odors, moving objects, demonic apparitions, and feelings of being watched.
H3 Was the book “The Amityville Horror” based on real events?
The book “The Amityville Horror” is a fictionalized account of the Lutz family’s experiences. While it claims to be based on real events, many of its details have been disputed and debunked.
H3 Have subsequent owners of the house reported paranormal activity?
No, subsequent owners of the house have not reported any paranormal activity, which casts doubt on the validity of the Lutz family’s claims.
H3 Has the house been remodeled since the Lutz family lived there?
Yes, the house has been remodeled and renovated several times since the Lutz family’s brief stay. However, the exterior remains largely recognizable.
H3 Where is the Amityville Horror house located?
The house is located at 112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, New York. The address has been changed since the events occurred in an attempt to lower its appeal to the curious.
H3 Is it possible to visit the Amityville Horror house?
While the house is a private residence, it can be viewed from the street. However, it is important to respect the privacy of the current owners. Trespassing is illegal and disrespectful.
H3 What is the current value of the Amityville Horror house?
Estimating the current value of the house is difficult due to its history. Comparable homes in the area sell for upwards of $1 million, but the Amityville name and the potential stigma could affect its market value.
H3 What is the legacy of the Amityville Horror house?
The Amityville Horror house has become a symbol of suburban terror and the enduring power of suggestion. It continues to fascinate people around the world, despite the skepticism surrounding the Lutz family’s claims and the lack of verifiable evidence of paranormal activity. It represents a blend of real-life tragedy and alleged supernatural phenomena, solidifying its place in popular culture.