Lake Shawnee Amusement Park

In Princeton, West Virginia, the Lake Shawnee Amusement Park has a unique and unsettling past. Opened in 1926 by Conley Snidow, the park was popular with locals until it closed in 1988. Its history includes accidents, reports of ghostly activity, and stories that continue to draw curious visitors.

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. A Brief History of Lake Shawnee Amusement Park
3. The Attractions of Lake Shawnee
4. Stories and Legends
5. Lake Shawnee Today
6. Conclusion
7. FAQs
8. Sources

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Introduction

Lake Shawnee Amusement Park, located in Princeton, West Virginia, has a complex history. Opened in 1926, it was a popular spot for families, offering a Ferris wheel, swing rides, a swimming lake, and a race track. It served as a summer getaway for coal miners and their families.

The park closed in 1966 after several tragic events, including the deaths of two children and a failed health inspection. It reopened briefly in 1987 but shut down again in 1988 due to high insurance costs.

The site has a long history beyond the amusement park. It was once a Native American burial ground and the location of an attack in 1785 where Mitchell Clay’s children were killed. These events, along with the park’s later accidents, have fueled stories of paranormal activity.

Today, the park is visited by ghost hunters and others curious about its past. It hosts Halloween tours and events that explore its history and lingering legends.

A Brief History of Lake Shawnee Amusement Park

Conley Snidow

Conley Trigg Snidow, Sr. was born on May 10, 1889, in Pembroke, Giles, Virginia. He was the son of William Benton Snidow and Mary Virginia Williams. Conley grew up in a large family, with several siblings, and spent his early years in Virginia.

In 1910, Conley moved to East River, Mercer, West Virginia, where he later married Mabel C Snidow. Together, they had three sons: Conley T Snidow Jr., Stanley Snidow, and Jim Snidow. Conley was known for his entrepreneurial spirit and vision, which led him to purchase the land that would become Lake Shawnee Amusement Park in 1926.

Conley Snidow’s contributions to the local community were significant. He provided a place for families, especially coal miners, to enjoy leisure and entertainment. Despite facing challenges, including tragic accidents at the park, Conley’s legacy as a community-minded individual remains.

Conley Trigg Snidow, Sr. passed away on February 15, 1979, in Princeton, Mercer County, West Virginia, and was buried in Oakwood Cemetery.

Opening in 1926

The opening of Lake Shawnee Amusement Park on June 26, 1926, was a momentous occasion for the local community in Princeton, West Virginia. Conley Snidow, Sr., the park’s visionary owner, had transformed the land into a family-friendly destination with attractions like a Ferris wheel, swing rides, a swimming lake, a racetrack, concession stands, a dance hall, and cabins for overnight stays. Families could enjoy picnics, boat rides, and games, making it a popular spot for the community during the summer.

The park’s opening day was sunny and filled with excitement and joy as families, especially those of coal miners, gathered to enjoy the new attractions. The park quickly became a beloved spot for summer vacations, offering a place for relaxation, fun, and creating memories.

Decline and Closure in the 1960s

The decline of Lake Shawnee Amusement Park in the 1960s was primarily due to a combination of tragic accidents, financial difficulties, and failed health inspections.

The park experienced several tragic accidents, including the deaths of two children. One child died after being struck by a truck delivering sodas, and another drowned in the swimming pool. These incidents raised serious safety concerns and negatively impacted the park’s reputation.

Maintaining and operating the park became increasingly challenging, especially after the accidents. Rising insurance rates and the cost of repairs and maintenance put a strain on the park’s finances.

In 1966, the park failed a health inspection, which further contributed to its decline. The combination of safety concerns and financial difficulties led to the park’s initial closure in 1967.

The Massacre and the Burial Ground

In August 1783, Mitchell Clay, a settler in what is now Mercer County, West Virginia, left his sons Bartley and Ezekial to build a fence around their harvested grain stacks while he went hunting. During this time, a group of Shawnee Native Americans attacked the family.

Bartley was shot and killed while working on the fence. His sister, Tabitha, tried to defend him but was overpowered and killed. Ezekial, the youngest son, was captured and later burned at the stake in Chillicothe, Ohio. When Mitchell returned, he buried his children with the help of other settlers and led a retaliatory attack against the Shawnee.

The land where Lake Shawnee Amusement Park now sits was originally used by the Shawnee for fishing and farming. Long before the 1785 attack, the area was a Native American burial ground.

In 1988, archaeologists from Marshall University and Concord University excavated the site, uncovering burial sites and ancient artifacts that confirmed the land’s history as a burial ground. These findings highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the site, adding depth to the story of Lake Shawnee Amusement Park.

Current Status

Lake Shawnee Amusement Park today shows its age, with rusted rides and overgrown vegetation taking over the once-busy attractions like the Ferris wheel, swing rides, and swimming lake. The park’s owner, Gaylord White, has shared stories of the wooden swings moving on their own, even without wind, and claims the warmth on a swing seat is from the spirit of a little girl who died on the ride.

The park’s reputation as a haunted site has brought in paranormal investigators and ghost hunters. Stories include sightings of a girl in a pink dress covered in blood and unexplained sounds like chants and footsteps. The park has been featured on shows like GhostLab and The Most Terrifying Places in America, adding to its reputation.

Despite its condition, Lake Shawnee continues to attract visitors interested in its history and ghost stories. It hosts Halloween tours and events that explore its eerie past, drawing curious guests from various places.

The Attractions of Lake Shawnee

Rides and Amenities

Lake Shawnee Amusement Park was once a bustling destination with a variety of popular rides and amenities that attracted visitors from near and far. Among the most beloved attractions were the Ferris wheel, which offered panoramic views of the park and surrounding countryside, and the swing rides, particularly popular among children, providing a thrilling experience as they soared through the air.

The man-made swimming lake was a favorite spot for visitors to cool off and enjoy boating and swimming, while the racetrack added an element of excitement as people watched or participated in small car races. Concession stands offered a variety of snacks and refreshments, creating a favorite gathering spot for families to enjoy treats. The dance hall provided a lively atmosphere for social gatherings, dances, and entertainment, enhancing the park’s charm. For those who wanted to stay overnight, the park offered cabins for a cozy and convenient lodging experience.

These attractions, combined with the park’s scenic location and family-friendly atmosphere, made Lake Shawnee Amusement Park a cherished destination for many years.

Uniqueness

Lake Shawnee Amusement Park stood out for its mix of family attractions, scenic location, and historical background. Set in the Appalachian region, the park offered a peaceful natural setting for rides and activities.

The attractions were designed for all ages. The Ferris wheel provided views of the countryside, swing rides were a hit with kids, and the man-made swimming lake was popular for cooling off and boating. A race track brought some excitement with small car races, while the dance hall served as a spot for social events. Concession stands and cabins made the park convenient for day trips and overnight stays.

What set the park apart was its connection to local history. Built on a former Native American burial ground and the site of an 18th-century attack, the park’s past added a layer of mystery. Reports of paranormal activity, like ghostly figures and unexplained sounds, have drawn ghost hunters and curious visitors. TV features have also highlighted its unique story.

This mix of recreation, natural beauty, and a haunted history has made Lake Shawnee a place of interest for those exploring its past or seeking a glimpse of its eerie legacy.

The “Creepy Swing”

The “Creepy Swing” at Lake Shawnee Amusement Park refers to an old swing ride that has become a focal point of the park’s haunted reputation. One of the most tragic incidents at the park involved a young girl who was struck and killed by a delivery truck while riding on this swing. Today, the swing stands in a rusted, abandoned state, adding to the eerie atmosphere of the park.

Visitors and paranormal enthusiasts have reported seeing the swing move on its own, even when there’s no wind, and hearing the ghostly laughter of children. The haunting tales surrounding the swing have made it one of the most infamous spots in what is often cited as one of the world’s most haunted places.

Stories and Legends

Lake Shawnee Amusement Park is known for its ghost stories and eerie history. One of the most famous tales is about the swing ride, where a young girl tragically died. Visitors have reported seeing the swing move on its own and hearing children’s laughter when no one is around.

Another story involves a girl in a pink dress, thought to be the spirit of the child who died on the swing. Some paranormal investigators claim to have seen her ghost.

The Ferris wheel is also said to be haunted. Some people have noticed ghostly figures on the ride or heard strange sounds. The park’s swimming lake, where another child drowned, is another spot linked to paranormal activity.

There are local stories of mysterious lights and voices, adding to the park’s eerie vibe. These ghost stories, along with the park’s dark past, make Lake Shawnee a popular spot for thrill-seekers and paranormal fans.

Lake Shawnee Today

Today, Lake Shawnee Amusement Park is a mix of history and mystery, drawing visitors with its tours, ghost hunts, and community events.

The park is especially known for its guided tours, which focus on its haunted past. These tours, mostly held around Halloween, let visitors explore the old rides and learn about the events that contributed to the park’s spooky reputation. Paranormal enthusiasts often join ghost-hunting expeditions, hoping to witness some of the reported supernatural activity.

Beyond ghost tours, the park also hosts various community events like festivals, seasonal activities, and educational tours that explore the area’s history, from its Native American heritage to its time as an amusement park.

There’s ongoing interest in preserving the site’s historical value. While the haunted tours are a big draw, efforts are also being made to maintain the land’s significance and explore future uses that could benefit the local community. The White family, who owns the park, has focused on preserving its historical and haunted elements instead of redeveloping it.

Conclusion

Lake Shawnee Amusement Park is a unique part of American history. Its mix of family attractions, natural beauty, and tragic past has made a lasting impact on West Virginia’s culture. Today, the park draws visitors with ghost tours, paranormal investigations, and community events that highlight its history.

The park’s eerie charm reflects the complex connection between the past and present. It continues to be a popular spot for those interested in both history and the paranormal. Lake Shawnee offers a glimpse into how joy and tragedy intersect, making it an important part of West Virginia’s story.

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Frequently asked questions about Lake Shawnee Amusement Park

1. What is the history behind Lake Shawnee Amusement Park? Lake Shawnee Amusement Park opened in 1926 and operated until 1966. The park is known for its tragic history, including several deaths and accidents, which have contributed to its eerie reputation.
2. Why is the park considered haunted? The park is believed to be haunted due to its tragic past, including the deaths of a young girl on the swing ride and a boy who drowned in the swimming pool. Additionally, the park was built on a Native American burial ground, which adds to the paranormal lore.
3. What kind of paranormal activity has been reported? Visitors have reported seeing apparitions, including a little girl near the swing set and a boy who drowned in the lake. There are also stories of protective Native American spirits and the lingering presence of the Clay family, who were early settlers in the area.
4. Are there any specific areas in the park known for paranormal activity? Yes, the swing set and the lake are two of the most commonly reported areas for paranormal activity. Visitors often leave gifts like dolls and toys for the little girl near the swing.
5. What is the Dark Carnival? The Dark Carnival is a special event held at Lake Shawnee Amusement Park, typically in October. It features haunted attractions, paranormal investigations, and other spooky activities.

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Sources

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