Fairfield County Infirmary – Return Investigation

Fairfield County Infirmary Investigation

June 20, 2026

Lancaster, OH

 

Investigation

 

Just south of Columbus in Lancaster, Ohio sits the Fairfield County Infirmary, an aging brick structure long associated with hardship, death, and neglect. Once a county poor farm meant to shelter the displaced, it evolved into an overcrowded, underfunded facility where mental illness, poverty, and misdiagnosis often overlapped.

 

Residents, later referred to as inmates, were required to work to sustain the grounds under strict and often archaic rules. Punishments for noncompliance could include isolation, restraint, and extended confinement. Over time, conditions deteriorated further, with reports of mistreatment, preventable deaths, and minimal record-keeping for those who passed. Many were buried on-site, sometimes in mass or unmarked graves.

 

As funding dried up, the infirmary was eventually abandoned. Decades later, surveys of the property revealed human remains scattered across the grounds, halting redevelopment plans nearby. The building remained dormant until new ownership began restoration efforts with the intent of transforming it into a historical site and memorial museum.

 

Today, the infirmary is widely known for intense paranormal reports throughout the building. Common accounts include unexplained footsteps, voices, heavy breathing, and shadow movement, particularly in the dungeon, morgue, and upper floors. The fourth floor, once used for mental health patients and an orphanage area, is especially active, with reports of sudden temperature shifts, disembodied voices, and objects moving without explanation. The site of a documented fire-related death has also produced consistent claims of female vocalizations and visual anomalies.

 

 

The third floor jail cell area is known for a heavy metal door that has reportedly moved on its own, along with frequent EMF fluctuations and activity tied to investigative trigger objects. Elsewhere, administrative spaces have a history of object displacement and unexplained disturbances.

 

The first floor doll room and adjoining hallway are often described as emotionally charged, with reports of laughter, voices, shadow figures, and sudden drops in energy. Nearby rooms have been associated with battery drain, scratches, and heightened physical reactions from guests.

 

A connected section of the building houses the morgue, chapel, physician’s office, and former funeral spaces. This area has produced reports of shadow figures, voice phenomena, and persistent presence sensations, including multiple eyewitness accounts during prior investigations.

 

During our initial investigation, we arrived in the evening and began with a guided walkthrough before setting up equipment and conducting a live-streamed investigation that lasted into the early morning hours. Using a full, albeit mobile setup, including EMF meters, thermal imaging, spirit box tools, SLS mapping, and audio recorders, we documented activity across multiple floors without a full stationary camera system.

 

This follow up investigation, Iron City Paranormal arrived on-site at approximately 5:00 PM, with investigative work beginning at 7:00 PM after initial setup and baseline environmental observation. The team consisted of Derrick, Dan, and Erin of Iron City Paranormal, along with Sabrina acting in a mediumship role, and Andrew and Ayla, who had previously worked with the team and participated in earlier investigations.

 

 

Due to the size and layered nature of the structure, the investigation was conducted in sequential zones, allowing for controlled observation of each environment independently before moving deeper into the facility.

 

A full walkthrough of the structure was conducted prior to structured sessions. During this phase, multiple investigators reported a consistent sensation of being watched or followed while transitioning through hallways and connecting spaces. While subjective in nature, these impressions were noted independently by more than one team member and documented for later comparison with environmental data. 

 

The maintenance area served as one of the earliest structured investigation zones. From the onset, Derrick noted a strong personal unease within the space, prompting extended time spent alone in the area for observation. Throughout the course of the evening, the atmospheric condition of the maintenance section appeared to shift intermittently, with moments of increased perceived density followed by relative calm. During audio review and live monitoring, several anomalous audio elements were captured, including distinct breathing-like sounds and isolated knocking patterns.

 

 

Most notably, an EVP captured within this area contained the phrase “I’m not interested”, followed by additional fragmented audio. Prior to a later file review session, the word ‘Erase’ was also recorded on the Ovilus, and subsequent recovery of deleted or missing segments revealed further corresponding audio fragments. While file corruption and technical error remain potential explanations, the timing and thematic consistency of the recovered audio is being reviewed for further analysis.

 

The coffin room presented an immediate shift in environmental tone upon entry. As the team began initial introduction and verbal engagement, a fully charged camera unit unexpectedly powered down without external cause. This occurred simultaneously with a noticeable feeling of unwelcome pressure reported by multiple investigators. EMF activity, specifically K2 meter readings, showed intermittent spikes during this period, accompanied by localized unexplained sounds within the room. The combination of equipment failure and environmental response led to the classification of this area as active but unstable in terms of interaction consistency.

 

The third-floor men’s wing exhibited strong indicators consistent with either residual or repetitive environmental activity. Loud, distinct footsteps were heard at multiple intervals, despite the absence of visible movement or corresponding physical presence. Cat balls, deployed within the space, activated independently during stationary observation periods. The pattern of activity suggested repetition rather than interaction, leading the team to interpret this section as potentially residual in nature rather than directly responsive.

 

 

The morgue area represented one of the most communicative and complex zones of the investigation. During flashlight and EVP sessions, the team received a clear female voice response stating “Yes” when asked a direct question regarding whether individuals had ever experienced a kidney stone. The clarity and timing of this response stood out during review. Additional auditory phenomena included shuffling sounds originating from the physical morgue space, as well as reports of objects being moved or thrown within adjacent areas. A small piece of drywall or stone was later discovered in a location inconsistent with normal deterioration patterns, though structural explanation cannot be ruled out. Spirit box and portal-style communication produced multiple references, including recognition of Andrew’s appearance (they liked his “Big” beard), repeated mention of a female with a nickname of  name “Nick”, and identification of relational context suggesting familial association (her brother’s name is also “Nick”). Toward the latter portion of the session, communication shifted in tone, with statements including “who’s that” in response to a secondary presence entering the area, followed by the directive “Out” at conclusion, suggesting either environmental boundary-setting or session termination behavior.

 

The mental ward area presented lower but consistent activity. Multiple knocks and tapping sounds were recorded throughout stationary observation periods. These responses appeared intermittent and did not escalate beyond low-level interaction.

 

 

While transitioning into the dungeon area, investigators reported auditory and visual phenomena consistent with a perceived following presence. Footsteps were heard behind the team, and flashlight anomalies suggested movement tracking parallel to the group’s direction of travel. Based on timing and continuity, it is possible that residual or intelligent activity may have transitioned with the team from the mental ward into this section, though this remains interpretive.

 

The chapel room was the most active and emotionally significant location of the entire investigation. During an extended Estes Method session, communication identified the presence of an individual associated with the name “Mary.” The narrative conveyed through responses suggested a deeply tragic historical context involving forced institutionalization, a burial performed under constrained circumstances, and familial/legal control imposed by a spouse. The account included references to Mary being buried standing upright, as well as implications of coercion related to both marriage and child custody following a birth occurring within the infirmary. The communication suggested emotional unrest centered not on hostility, but on unresolved trauma and a desire for acknowledgment. The entity associated with this communication expressed reluctance to disengage from the interaction, instead indicating a desire for the story to be shared with those currently working in the building. The emotional tone of this session was notably different from prior locations, shifting from procedural investigation into deeply personal narrative engagement.

 

Across the Fairfield County Infirmary, activity appeared to fluctuate between three primary patterns: residual repetition (notably in the men’s wing), responsive interaction (particularly within the morgue area), and emotionally driven communication (most prominently in the chapel). No consistent indicators of hostility or aggressive intent were observed. Instead, the environment presented as layered, ranging from passive repetition to moments of apparent awareness and interaction.

 

 

The maintenance area, morgue, and chapel showed the strongest indicators of potential intelligent engagement, while other sections, particularly the third floor hallway, reflected more environmental or residual characteristics. Overall tone of the location can be described as responsive, historically weighted, and emotionally charged rather than threatening.

 

Iron City Paranormal approaches all investigations with controlled methodology, documentation integrity, and respect for both the history of the location and the experiences reported within it. The goal remains consistent: to observe, document, and present findings without assumption or exaggeration.

 

For comments, inquiries, or collaboration opportunities, you may contact Iron City Paranormal at ir****************@***il.com.

 

Here is the link to the initial investigation:

 

https://ironcityparanormal.org/fairfield-county-infirmary-investigation/

 

As always, you have been warned, some of this is not for the faint of heart and can be slightly explicit:

 

Pre-Investigation Walkthrough 

 

Upon arrival at Fairfield County Infirmary, an initial walkthrough of the structure was conducted prior to the deployment of any investigative equipment or formal communication attempts. This phase was used to establish environmental context, identify areas of interest, and allow the team to move through the building without external influence. The walkthrough included Iron City Paranormal members Derrick, Dan, and Erin, along with Sabrina in a mediumship role, and Andrew and Ayla, who had previously investigated with the team.

 

 

As the team moved through interconnected corridors and major sections of the infirmary, multiple investigators independently reported a consistent sensation of being watched or followed. This experience was not isolated to a single area, but instead appeared to persist intermittently throughout different sections of the building. This closely mirrored impressions from a prior investigation at the location, where similar sensations were reported and, at one point, a shadow-like figure was visually observed during movement through the structure.

 

Subtle atmospheric shifts were also noted during transitions between key areas of the building, particularly where functional zones changed from maintenance and operational spaces into more institutional or residential sections. While no active investigative techniques were used during this phase, these observations provided important contextual baselines. The walkthrough ultimately established a consistent early pattern of perceived presence and environmental awareness, which informed the focus and structure of subsequent investigative sessions.

 

Photos:

 

• There was nothing captured at this time through pictures that stood out.

 

Recording 1 – Walkthrough:

 

 

• There was nothing out of the ordinary captured during this time but we noted a few occasions where we felt as though we were being watched and even touched.

 

Video 1 – Walkthrough 1:

 

• This video encapsulates the entirety of the infirmary for both reference and posterity.

 

 

Maintenance Hallway and Room 

 

The maintenance hallway and adjoining room within Fairfield County Infirmary represent an area historically associated with the building’s operational infrastructure, where mechanical systems, storage, and service access would have been concentrated during its period of active use. During prior documentation and accounts related to the site, this section was frequently described in a manner that suggested unease or reluctance, including reports that even during guided tours, movement through this area was expedited compared to other sections of the building. This same pattern was observed during the current walkthrough, where the space was moved through quickly and without extended commentary, reinforcing an initial impression of discomfort associated with the environment. Despite this, it is important to note that prior investigative experiences within the building indicated that atmospheric perception of this area can shift significantly depending on time spent within the space.

 

 

During the Fairfield County Infirmary investigation, this section initially carried a noticeably heavy and uneasy atmosphere for multiple investigators, with Derrick in particular reporting a strong adverse reaction that prompted extended solo observation. However, as the night progressed, the character of the space appeared to change in a measurable way. The intensity of the initial discomfort diminished over time, transitioning into a more structured and observable environment rather than one dominated by immediate unease. Within this area, anomalous audio recordings were captured, including breathing-like sounds, intermittent knocks, and a clear EVP stating, “I’m not interested.” Additionally, the term ‘Erase’ was documented on the Ovilus prior to a later review period in which previously missing audio files were recovered, revealing additional fragments consistent with earlier recordings. During subsequent analysis, investigators also documented what appeared to be a command delivered in the German language, interpreted as “Fall in line.” Historical research conducted following the investigation identified former Fairfield County Infirmary Superintendent Hummel as a figure frequently associated with strict discipline and harsh treatment of residents. Further genealogical research indicated that both of Hummel’s parents were of German origin, making it plausible, though not historically confirmed, that he spoke German. While no direct connection can be established between the recorded phrase and Superintendent Hummel, the historical context presents an intriguing avenue for continued research. Although alternative technical and environmental explanations remain possible, the progression of conditions throughout the night and the layered nature of the recorded responses suggest a shift in environmental responsiveness that warrants further investigation. 

 

Photos:

 

• This first screen capture came from a trail camera where it captured the motion activated light turning on while no one was in the area.

 

 

• This next screen capture also was taken from a trail camera where it showed a shadow moving down the hallway and out the door, again, with no one in the area.

 

 

• The motion light could be seen turning on in this trail camera screen capture. The light was placed in the corner but no one was in this area at the time.

 

 

• This final screen capture came from a handheld camera during our time inside the Maintenance Room where the K2 meter would light sporadically with no explanation.

 

 

Recorder 1 – EVP 1:

 

 

• After we introduced ourselves and asked if whoever was down here would be willing to speak to us, we heard a very soft whisper at :10. Although it’s still unclear, our belief is that the voice answered us by explaining that “I’m not interested.”

 

Recorder 2 – EVP 2:

 

 

• At about :05, a heavy breath could be heard as if exasperated that we continued to talk even though they did not want us to. 
• This continued with another soft whisper at 1:06 with what sounded to us like a German word of “Reiht sich” which roughly translates to “Join in line” or “Fall into place.” If the former superintendent who mistreated the residents was in fact still here, as the stories tell us, then is it possible that he was commanding us or unseen residents with this brief but forceful expression?

 

Recorder 3 – EVP 3:

 

 

• Prior to this clip, the Ovilus produced the word ‘Erase.’ At the time, we had no idea what this could mean. But we found out quickly that this entity had deleted the files off the recorder and they were only recovered after the fact. Is it possible that they realized that we caught their voice and they did not want themselves to be exposed?
• Following this, right away at :01, an odd tapping noise could be heard coming from the wall behind the group, startling us as we heard this unsettling noise at the time.

 

Recorder 4 – ESTES 1:

 

 

• With a lot of silence and no responses during this session, we asked if they could tell us anything, even if that meant that they did not want to speak to us. “No” was heard in response twice, at :18 and :21.
• We respected this response and moved on, calling it a night in this area.

 

Video 1 – Handheld Camera 1:

 

• During this initial clip, the K2 meter could be seen spiking quickly at :03 then spiked and held for a period of time from :37 lasting until :51.
• The K2 meter again spikes at :57.

 

 

Video 2 – Handheld Camera 2:

 

• The K2 meter again spikes on a few different occasions here starting at :06 and continuing to do so at :12, :19, and finally at :56 after a period of silence.

 

 

Video 3 – Handheld Camera 3:

 

• The K2 meter spikes one final time in this room at :08.

 

https://youtu.be/GLThLBhW8ww

 

Video 4 – Handheld Camera 4:

 

• At :10, the motion activated light could be seen turning on, the back off at :30 even though there was one investigator in the area at the time.

 

 

Video 5 – Handheld Camera 5:

 

• This motion activated light again could be seen turning on at :09 then back off at :31 while once again no one was in the area.

 

 

Video 6 – Handheld Camera 6:

 

• At :07, the motion activated light turned on then turned off at :27 with the area being empty.

 

 

Video 7 – Handheld Camera 7:

 

• During this last clip of the hallway, the motion activated light was once again turned on by an unseen entity at :07 then shut back off at :28.

 

 

Video 8 – Trail Camera 1:

 

• There was an odd shadow captured on the right side of the doorway paired up with some footsteps that could be heard around :05.

 

 

Video 9 – Trail Camera 2:

 

• An even clearer shadow could be seen coming down the hallway, entering the room at :02.
• This shadow almost appears to be wearing a doctor’s jacket draped down near their knees.

 

 

Video 10 – Trail Camera 3:

 

• The motion activated light comes into play once more as it turns on at :06.

 

 

Coffin Room

 

The coffin room within Fairfield County Infirmary represents one of the more confined and historically suggestive spaces within the structure, with its designation and layout contributing to a naturally heightened psychological response from investigators. During initial walkthrough observations, this area was treated with caution due to its environmental tone and the way prior guided movement through the space was conducted. In several institutional tours of similar locations, this type of room is often moved through quickly or with limited engagement, a pattern that was also observed here as the guide passed through the area at a noticeably accelerated pace, offering minimal commentary before continuing onward.

 

 

During the formal investigation phase, access to the coffin room was limited to Derrick and Erin. Upon entry, the environmental tone shifted almost immediately, with both investigators noting a sense of unwelcome presence that contrasted sharply with other areas of the building. As verbal introduction and initial acknowledgment of the space were made, a fully charged camera device unexpectedly powered down without clear mechanical cause. This occurred concurrently with increased K2 meter activity and isolated, unexplained sounds within the room. The combination of equipment malfunction, EMF fluctuation, and perceived atmospheric resistance resulted in the coffin room standing out as one of the more reactive environments encountered during the investigation. While no sustained communication was established in this section, the immediacy of the environmental response suggests a heightened sensitivity to presence or interaction within the space.

 

Photos:

 

• There was nothing captured out of the ordinary here.

 

Recorder 1 – EVP 1:

 

 

• This first clip only captured the sound of the video camera shutting off after we introduced ourselves and were seemingly given the cold shoulder. This could be heard at :17.

 

Recorder 2 – EVP 2:

 

 

• Prior to this recording, Erin felt a cold spot and, at :01, a light tapping could be heard followed by the K2 meter spiking at :18.

 

Recorder 3 – EVP 3:

 

 

• While we felt that this all was fleeting energy, spiking then fading, as we exited the area, we could make out shuffling footsteps following us and heard at :03.

 

Third Floor – Men’s Wing

 

The third-floor men’s wing of Fairfield County Infirmary reflects a historically residential institutional space, where prolonged occupancy and repetitive daily activity would have occurred during the building’s operational period. In environments of this nature, residual-style phenomena are often reported in association with routine human behavior imprinting onto the space over time. During prior awareness of the location and general investigative context, this area was consistent with reports of patterned activity rather than interactive or responsive behavior, particularly in relation to repetitive sounds and movement-based impressions.

 

 

During the Fairfield County Infirmary investigation, this section presented a noticeably different energetic profile compared to the maintenance and coffin room areas. Multiple investigators reported hearing distinct and well-defined footsteps occurring within the wing during stationary observation periods, despite no visible source or corresponding physical movement being identified. In addition, cat ball devices placed within the space activated intermittently without direct interaction, suggesting localized environmental stimulation. The activity observed in this section appeared structured and repetitive in nature rather than responsive, leading to an initial interpretation leaning toward residual imprinting rather than intelligent interaction. Unlike earlier areas of the investigation, the energy within the men’s wing remained relatively stable, with activity occurring in isolated moments rather than sustained engagement.

 

Photos:

 

• While we typically do not subscribe to orbs as being a regular paranormal occurrence, this screen capture from a trail camera did intrigue us as it had a specific size and rate of movement and did act as dust or a bug.

 

 

• This handheld camera screen capture showed a moment where the cat ball could seen lighting up and moving on its own.

 

 

Recorder 1 – EVP 1:

 

 

• While our intrigue was mainly the footsteps, prior to those beginning, we heard what sounded like a soft whisper at :05, albeit indecipherable to us.
• The footsteps began here at :15 but were followed by yet another whispering voice at :28. This time, the whisper sounded like the word “Now.”

 

Recorder 2 – EVP 2:

 

 

• There was a pair of footsteps captured here, somewhat quietly, at :02 and :10.
• With that, we asked if they could move the cat ball in the hallway to which it did light up as we could be heard reacting to this at about :43.
• The footsteps continued after this at 1:05, 1:10, and finally at 1:16.

 

Recorder 3 – EVP 3:

 

 

• Seemingly residual footsteps continued to be predominantly featured in this area, both captured via recorder and heard in person. This could be heard here at :02, :09, and lastly at :27.

 

Recorder 4 – EVP 4:

 

 

• These footsteps continued and were heard even louder through this clip starting at :04.
• They continued at the following time stamps: :18, :22, :38, :41, and :44.

 

Recorder 5 – EVP 5:

 

 

• At this point, we were definitely leaning more toward residual activity as the phantom footsteps continued at :03, :08, and :24.
• After a slight pause, they continued even picked up pace at 1:31 continuing at 1:34 and ending at 1:38.

 

Recorder 6 – EVP 6:

 

 

• Following some further cat ball movement, captured on the video camera, the footsteps continued at :02, :07, and :09.
• While these footsteps sounded like pacing, there was a brief pause only to be continued with more footsteps as if further pacing could be heard at :45, :47, and :59.

 

Recorder 7 – EVP 7:

 

 

• Similar to the previous clips, following a break, perhaps building up more energy, the footsteps continued at :07 but took another hiatus.
• They continued at 1:09 and changed into an almost shuffling sound heard at 1:16 and 1:17.
• The individual footsteps picked back up at 1:22, 1:24, and finally ended at 1:35.

 

Recorder 8 – EVP 8:

 

 

• The cat ball was once again triggered but the residual footsteps began once more at :04 and continued into :11, :30, :48, 1:03, and ended at 1:15.

 

Recorder 9 – EVP 9:

 

 

• Following another pause, the footsteps continued at :01, :05, and :08 before taking another moment to recover.
• These picked back up starting at :44, :51, and ended at :59.

 

Recorder 10 – EVP 10:

 

 

• These residual footsteps continued in this clip starting with :01, taking a brief pause, the continuing at :17, :21, and :24 before pausing again.
• At :47, these footsteps continued to lurk down the hall, and ended at :52.

 

Recorder 11 – EVP 11:

 

 

• Immediately at :01, the footsteps returned and continued into :08, and ended at :17.

 

Recorder 12 – EVP 12:

 

 

• The footsteps re-surfaced here at :04 but transitioned into an unsettling trinity of knocks at :38.
• At :47, the footsteps could be heard in its final segment,

 

Recorder 13 – EVP 13:

 

 

• The Ovilus produced the words ‘Sentenced’ and ‘Violent’ prior to this clip but at :06 we managed to hear a groaning noise after we mentioned going outside toward the cemetery.

 

Video 1 – Handheld Camera 1:

 

• There was a light anomaly moving from the center towards the left side of the picture at 05.
• At about :09, there was another light anomaly that moved from the center of the screen to the right side.
• Another light anomaly moved from the center of the screen toward the left at about :19.

 

 

Video 2 – Handheld Camera 2:

 

• At :07, a strange moving light could be seen at the center of the screen, streaking toward the right side.
• Starting at 1:29, the cat ball could be seen lighting until it shut off at 1:43.

 

 

Video 3 – Handheld Camera 3:

 

• There was a light anomaly, starting at :02,  moving from the center of the picture toward the left side.
• At :45 in, another similar light could be seen at the right side of the clip and ten seconds later, at :55, another light appeared on the left side.

 

 

Video 4 – Trail Camera 1:

 

• Throughout this clip, there was nothing visual but there were footsteps that could be heard.

 

 

Video 5 – Trail Camera 2:

 

• While the majority of these lights seen here were dust or bugs, the most intriguing aspect is the shadow at the window captured at :23.

 

https://youtu.be/y4FjB6gb3H8

 

Video 7 – Trail Camera 4:

 

• There was a final light captured here moving from left to right at :07.

 

 

Morgue

 

The morgue area within Fairfield County Infirmary represents one of the most historically sensitive sections of the building, both structurally and contextually, given its direct association with death care and post-mortem procedures during the facility’s operational period. Due to the nature of the space and its historical function, access and investigation were limited during this portion of the session, with only Derrick, Dan, and Andrew investigated this area while Erin, Sabrina, and Ayla moved back toward the maintenance section and later transitioned into the chapel area for parallel investigation work. This separation of teams created a distinct investigative environment, allowing for isolated data collection within the morgue without cross-interference from other active sessions elsewhere in the building.

 

 

During the time spent within the morgue, investigators conducted a combination of flashlight-based communication, EVP sessions, and controlled verbal questioning. The area quickly demonstrated a level of responsiveness not only through auditory phenomena but also through structured interaction patterns. A clear female voice was captured during recording, responding with the word “yes” in direct answer to a question regarding whether individuals had ever experienced a kidney stone, with clarity that stood out during initial review. Additional auditory activity included shuffling sounds originating from within the morgue space itself, as well as reports of movement consistent with objects being shifted or displaced, though no direct visual confirmation was obtained during the session.

 

As communication continued, multiple references were received through spirit box and portal-style interaction, including recognition of Andrew’s presence and appearance, with a specific comment regarding his beard. The name “Nick” was repeatedly referenced, along with contextual indications suggesting familial association or identification between individuals. Toward the latter portion of the session, the tone of communication shifted following the arrival of additional presence or stimulus, with responses including “Who’s that?” followed by a directive of “Out” as the session concluded. This transition suggests either a boundary-setting behavior or a change in perceived activity following environmental or personnel shift within the space.

 

Photos:

 

 

• This image is a screen capture of the moment we believe we captured that something was thrown and caught on the handheld video camera.

 

Recorder 1 – EVP 1:

 

 

• While it took a little bit to get going, after we began to discuss deaths and kidney stones, we captured one of our greatest and clearest EVP’s that we ever have at :05 as we heard a confirmation of “Yeah.”

 

Recorder 2 – EVP 2:

 

 

• After we mentioned that this area was likely a busy place, we heard a shuffling as if someone was moving back in the morgue area. This occurred at :18.

 

Recorder 3 – EVP 3:

 

 

• There were two separate moments of knocking or tapping as if someone was trying to get our attention, or turn our attention away as a distraction. This was captured at :24 and :48.

 

Recorder 4 – EVP 4:

 

 

• The shuffling of steps re-occurred here at :09.

 

Recorder 5 – EVP 5:

 

 

• At :04, we heard something being thrown in the morgue room at about :04.

 

Recorder 6 – Spirit Box Portal 1:

 

 

• While we ran the Spirit Box through the Portal, we heard footsteps once again at :15 which lasted for about 8 seconds as if someone was pacing back and forth.

 

Recorder 7 – Spirit Box Portal 2:

 

 

• We explained that we adjusted the settings and asked if they could try speaking now and heard “Hey” at :18.
• After we asked if they could say something, anything we heard a confirmation of “Yup” at 1:22.

 

Recorder 8 – Spirit Box Portal 3:

 

 

• While we had some minimal flashlight activity, we asked if they could tell us how old they are and heard “Ten” at :16 which the flashlight helped give us confirmation to this fact.

 

Recorder 9 – Spirit Box Portal 4:

 

 

• After explaining that we felt as though they were hurt pretty bad, we heard a response of “It did” at :25.
• This was followed by a cold spot near the morgue entryway.

 

Recorder 10 – Spirit Box Portal 5:

 

 

• We asked if they liked Andrew and if it was because of his nice beard, we heard a confirmation of “Big” at :22 as if to say his beard was in fact big.
• As we felt like we were making some headway to getting to know this energy and for them to loosen up a bit, we asked for their name, or nickname. In response, we heard the probable nickname of “Nick” at 1:23.

 

Recorder 11 – Spirit Box Portal 6:

 

 

• After some silence, we heard the name “Nick” once again at :40.
• We asked if they could tell us their brother’s name to which we heard, again, the name “Nick” captured at :52.

 

Recorder 12 – Spirit Box Portal 7:

 

 

• As we discussed the hotel we were all staying at, we asked one another if they got a room and, as if eavesdropping and participating, heard “Me too” at :10.

 

Recorder 13 – Spirit Box Portal 8:

 

 

• Once more, we discussed within our group if we got confirmation that this energy was ten years old and heard “I’m not” at :03.
• We asked them to turn the flashlight on to confirm they were ten years old but instead, we were met with shuffling footsteps from the morgue area at :26.
• As we noticed this at the time, we asked if this shuffling sound was them and heard a knocking reply at 1:09.

 

Recorder 14 – Spirit Box Portal 9:

 

 

• While we tried to continue the conversation with the supposed ten year old female, we were told that we were “Mixed up” at :06.
• Instead of acknowledging this, we focused on the previous noise and asked if they could do it again but instead heard “Who’s that?” at 1:08.

 

Recorder 15 – Spirit Box Portal 10:

 

 

• We attempted to decipher who we were talking to but had no replies so we explained that if the energy shifted we were going to move along and heard “Out” at :52 as if they agreed with this sentiment.

 

Video 1 – Handheld Camera 1:

 

• At :08, there was some type of dark spot as if something had dropped from the ceiling. This was heard by one investigator and later through the audio review.

 

 

Video 2 – Handheld Camera 2:

 

• There was a strange light anomaly captured here at :06.

 

 

Mental Ward / Orphanage

 

The mental ward and orphanage-adjacent section of Fairfield County Infirmary represents a historically complex environment, reflecting the building’s later use for long-term care, housing, and institutional support functions. Spaces of this nature are often characterized in both historical documentation and anecdotal accounts as emotionally dense due to prolonged occupancy, transitional care conditions, and the layering of human experience over extended periods of use. At this point in the investigation, all six team members, Derrick, Dan, Erin, Sabrina, Andrew, and Ayla, reunited within the space following earlier division of investigative groups, re-establishing a full-team configuration prior to continuing movement deeper into the structure.

 

 

During the time spent within this section, the team conducted brief stationary observation and listening periods, focusing on environmental response and baseline audio capture before transitioning onward. Activity within the area remained subtle but consistent, primarily presenting through intermittent knocks and tapping sounds that did not appear tied to any visible structural or environmental source. While no extended communication sessions were conducted here, the timing and placement of these responses stood out due to their occurrence during full-team presence, suggesting a possible correlation between group consolidation and increased environmental interaction. Following this phase, half the team collectively transitioned toward the dungeon area, marking a shift from observational activity into a more dynamic and responsive portion of the investigation.

 

Photos:

 

 

• This image is a screen capture of the moment we believe we notcied a mist entering the room after we heard someone out in the hallway.

 

 

• This image was captured just moments later where the mist disappeared from the screen and reappeared closer to the camera and just barely seen on screen.

 

Recorder 1 – EVP 1:

 

 

• After we introduced ourselves and got settled in, we heard a surprisingly welcomed response of “Hello” at :05.

 

Recorder 2 – EVP 2:

 

 

• We asked if they could make a noise so we would be aware of their presence and heard a knocking sound at :02.
• After we asked if they could step forward toward us, we heard the creaking of footsteps at :36.
• While we acknowledged this, we offered them the opportunity to come over toward us and heard more footsteps at :56.

 

Video 1 – Handheld Camera 1:

 

• We asked if there was anyone with us and, at :58, there was another light captured out in the hall.

 

 

Video 9 – Handheld Camera 9:

 

• We asked if there was anyone out in the hallway and, at :20, a light could be seen back towards that darker space.
• After we asked if they could come this way, another light was produced and seen at :37.
• Towards the right side of the hallway, a light could be seen at :51 then moving again at 1:03.

 

 

Dungeon

 

The dungeon area of Fairfield County Infirmary represents one of the more structurally isolated and psychologically intense sections of the building, historically associated with confinement, storage, and restricted access depending on its period of use. Due to its separation from primary patient and residential spaces, this section often carries a heavier perceptual tone, influenced by both environmental conditions and the implications of prolonged isolation. Following the mental ward segment, core members of Iron City Paranormal, Derrick, Dan, and Erin, transitioned into this area as a smaller investigative group, while Sabrina, Andrew, and Ayla remained in other active zones of the building.

 

 

Almost immediately upon entry and continued movement through the dungeon space, investigators reported a shift in perceived environmental pressure consistent with the sensation of being followed. This impression was not isolated, as multiple team members independently noted the feeling that movement was occurring behind them during progression through the area, despite no visual confirmation of any physical presence. Concurrently, flashlight activity became increasingly responsive, with intermittent activation patterns occurring during pauses and directional changes in movement. These responses, combined with the persistent sensation that an entity or presence had followed the group from the mental ward into this section, created a continuity of perceived interaction across multiple adjacent environments. While no definitive visual evidence was obtained, the consistency of experiential reporting among investigators suggests a potential carryover effect between zones or a sustained environmental influence tracking movement through the structure.

 

Photos:

 

 

• This screen capture showed an unknown shadow moving in front of the window.

 

Recorder 1 – EVP 1:

 

 

• With early flashlight activity, we directed our attention to the corner of the Dungeon by the window but were surprised as we heard footsteps creaking right behind the group at :18..

 

Recorder 2 – EVP 2:

 

 

• As we attempted to trace these footsteps, and possibly a body, with the thermal camera, we did capture even more phantom footsteps starting at :03.
• These creaks continued at :21, :24, :29, and ended at :34.
• After we asked if there was anyone standing and pacing behind the group, the flashlight did turn on as if to confirm this.

 

Video 1 – Handheld Camera 1:

 

• Dust moved atop the flashlight starting at :01 and lasted until :08.
• What’s most intriguing about this clip is the shadows and figure spotted in the window at :23.

 

https://youtu.be/3Ujq7cKjij0

 

Video 2 – Handheld Camera 2:

 

• Multiple lights were spotted here from :07 lasting until :10.
• At the window, another light anomaly was noted at :22.
• This light disappeared but reappeared towards the right side of the window at :44.

 

 

Chapel

 

The chapel room within Fairfield County Infirmary represents one of the most historically and emotionally significant spaces within the structure, reflecting its use for religious services, reflection, and institutional ritual during the building’s operational period. Spaces of this nature often carry layered emotional context due to their association with transition, grief, and personal reflection, particularly within institutional environments where individuals may have experienced prolonged separation from family or autonomy. Following activity in the dungeon, all six members of the team—Derrick, Dan, Erin, Sabrina, Andrew, and Ayla—reunited within the chapel area, re-establishing full group presence for the final investigative segment of the night.

 

 

Within this setting, an extended Estes Method session was conducted with Derrick as the primary receiver. The session quickly progressed beyond baseline environmental responses and into structured communication that appeared coherent and emotionally focused in nature. The most significant point of contact involved the identification of the name “Mary,” accompanied by a narrative suggesting a deeply distressing personal history involving institutionalization, coercion, and family control. The communication indicated that she was buried in a manner described as standing upright, and referenced circumstances involving her husband exerting control over her placement within the institution, as well as connections to a child born within the infirmary setting.

 

Throughout the session, the tone of communication remained emotionally charged rather than aggressive, with repeated emphasis on being acknowledged and having her story conveyed. Additional context suggested ongoing attachment to the location and reluctance to disengage from interaction, with a clear desire for the information to be shared beyond the immediate investigative team. The Estes session concluded after a sustained period of communication, at which point the environment gradually stabilized and no further structured responses were observed. This marked the final active investigative sequence of the night and brought the team’s full investigation cycle at Fairfield County Infirmary to a close.

 

Photos:

 

• This evidence was all audio-based. We did not notice anything out of the ordinary visually.

 

Recorder 1 – EVP 1:

 

 

• After the group split, the men going to the morgue and the women going to the maintenance area, the women moved onto this area as their experiences were minimal to non-existent during their attempt in the maintenance hallway. 
• While there were a few flashlight responses, the recorder captured phantom footsteps as if someone was moving around the room. This occurred at :02 then again at :32.

 

Recorder 2 – EVP 2:

 

 

• A shuffling of footsteps across the room was heard here at :06.

 

Recorder 3 – EVP 3:

 

 

• We asked if they were done interacting with us after a pause in the flashlight activity and the Ovilus produced the name ‘Pam’ at :14.
• As we attempted to confirm this, we asked if their name was Pam and the flashlight turned on as we could be heard reacting to this at :34.

 

Recorder 4 – EVP 4:

 

 

• While there was not much further communication regarding Pam, we captured another name thanks to the Ovilus which produced ‘Robert’ at :04.

 

Recorder 5 – EVP 5:

 

 

• We decided to give them a breather and take a break ourselves. We explained this to them and we were given the word ‘Minute’ through the Ovilus at :12 as if to confirm this.

 

Recorder 6 – Static 1:

 

 

• While we took our break, we left a static recorder in this area to capture anything that may want to step forward in an empty room without any spectators. 
• This first recorder clip captured a shuffling of footsteps with no one present at :04.
• After a silent period, this shuffling returned at 1:14.

 

Recorder 7 – Static 2:

 

 

• The shuffling footsteps returned here and were captured at :07 then again at :47.

 

Recorder 8 – Static 3:

 

 

• Pacing footsteps could be heard here starting at :05 and lasting up until :11.

 

Recorder 9 – Static 4:

 

 

• A heavy breath could be heard at :05.

 

Recorder 10 – Static 5:

 

 

• The footsteps returned here and could be heard on three different occasions, at :04, :08, and finally at :13.
• What’s more fascinating here is that the breath follows these footsteps and was captured at 1:02.

 

Recorder 11 – Static 6:

 

 

• Shuffling footsteps were heard here at :07.

 

Recorder 12 – Static 7:

 

 

• A knocking sound was heard during this clip at :03 coming across much different than any other noise we were hearing.

 

Recorder 13 – Static 8:

 

 

• The heavy breath was captured here once again and heard at :05.

 

Recorder 14 – Static 9:

 

 

• At :06, the knocking noise was heard once again.

 

Recorder 15 – Static 10:

 

 

• This final static recording captured a combination of footsteps and knocking noises.
• The footsteps were captured at :04 whereas a pair of knocks were heard at :11 and :13.

 

Recorder 16 – ESTES 1:

 

 

• After we returned to this room with the full team, we decided we would give them the opportunity to speak in a different manner so we utilized the ESTES Method. During this timeframe, words came through slowly but if we were patient and gave them the time and energy they needed, the words combined did make a lot of sense and told their story.
• During this first clip, the Ovilus actually produced the first communication with ‘Mike’ at :05 then a combination of ‘Mind’ and ‘Baby’ at 1:10.
• We asked if they could let us know if they can use this device and heard a response of “Try it” at 2:30.

 

Recorder 17 – ESTES 2:

 

 

• After listing off some issues that may have caused their death, like the kidney stone comments in the morgue earlier, we asked if they rang a bell and heard potential foreshadowing of “You’ll see” at :16.
• We asked what they saw and heard a few words broken up piece by piece but put together made sense. The first word was “I” heard at :38 followed by “Was” at :55. This continued with “Not” at 1:04 and finally “Dead” at 1:44.
• Put these all together and they were telling us: “I was not dead.”

 

Recorder 18 – ESTES 3:

 

 

• We blatantly asked what they meant by saying that they were not dead and we heard a response of “Buried” at :24.
• With that reply, we asked if they were buried alive to which we heard “Standing” at 2:42. We were informed that there were many residents who were buried standing upright to save space so this actually made some sense when looking back.

 

Recorder 19 – ESTES 4:

 

 

• As the communication began to open up a little, we asked for their name and received a response of “Mary” at :17.

 

Recorder 20 – ESTES 5:

 

 

• We explained that we were very sorry that this happened to her and we were told she was “Cold” at 1:36, again taking some time to build up the energy to reply.

 

Recorder 21 – ESTES 6:

 

 

• As we gathered ourselves to see where to turn next, we asked if they were currently cold or if they were cold when they buried her to which we captured a response of “I was” at :31 but this seemed to be a small part and the start of a  longer, more drawn out response.
• The word “Crying” was then heard at :48 so we asked if they were crying for someone’s attention at that point and heard “For” at 1:12.
• Finally, to end this duration, the name “Mikey” was heard at 1:28.
• Again, if we took all these drawn out words, we were left with “I was crying for Mikey” rather than answering any of our smaller questions, she seemed to be telling us something more profound. A major part of Mary’s story.

 

Recorder 22 – ESTES 7:

 

 

• We asked who Mikey was and heard a response of “Husband” at :35.

 

Recorder 23 – ESTES 8:

 

 

• After we asked if he did not hear her pleas and cries, we heard “He” at :24 followed by “Knows” at :49.
• With that, we asked how he knew and heard an unsettling reply of “Paid them” at 1:30.

 

Recorder 24 – ESTES 9:

 

 

• We asked a horribly sad question if her husband paid them to bury her alive and, at first the Ovilus responded with ‘Breaker’ at :03 but our interpretation of this was actually ‘Break her.’
• The Ovilus continued with ‘Remote’ at :21 as if to say he did it from afar?
• To confirm these things, we asked Mary directly if she could confirm that her husband paid them to bury her alive standing up and, at :35, we heard his name of “Mike.”
• This was followed by a concise confirmation of  “Yes” at 1:14.

 

Recorder 25 – ESTES 10:

 

 

• After some silence, we asked if she knew why he would do such a thing and heard “No” at :18 as if she was just as confused as us.

 

Recorder 26 – ESTES 11:

 

 

• We were then told “Out” at :04.
• As we thought that perhaps they were done with us, we asked if they said everything they wanted to but, at :27, we heard “There.”
• Again, putting these together we came up with “Out there” as if in maybe her resting place in the cemetery outside.

 

Recorder 27 – ESTES 12:

 

 

• With a much more humble and somber tone, we asked if there was anything we could do for her and heard “I’m alone” at :12.

 

Recorder 28 – ESTES 13:

 

 

• Once again, we tried to offer our help and heard “Tell them” at :37.
• We responded to that and asked if they wanted us to tell people and heard a plea of “Help me” at :45.
• After we asked if that would help them cross over, we were uncertainly told “Probably” at :52.

 

Recorder 29 – ESTES 14:

 

 

• The Ovilus produced the word ‘Pounds’ prior to this clip, which occurred previously throughout the evening so we took a stab at this meaning asking if it was their last name. Instead, we heard a declination of “No” at :18.

 

Recorder 30 – ESTES 15:

 

 

• Once more, we asked if they said everything that they wanted to as we were greeted with further silence. Instead of a confirmation, we heard “No” at :14.
• Wanting to know more about Mary, we asked if she could tell us her last name. At :33, almost a rhetorical question of “Today?” was captured.
• We took this as an answer and asked if this was her last name but instead heard a response of “Ashton” at 1:13.

 

Recorder 31 – ESTES 16:

 

 

• After some silence, we asked directly if Ashton was her last name and heard “His” at :41 followed by “Name” at :53.
• Put together, we seemingly captured a full response of “His name” as if Ashton was her husband’s name.

 

Recorder 32 – ESTES 17:

 

 

• Putting these pieces together, we asked if this was actually Mike’s name and heard “They tried” at :15 but as we asked what they tried to do we heard a continuation starting with “Make” at 1:47.
• We continued this train of thought and asked what they tried to make her do and heard “Me” at 2:36 and with this we asked if they tried to make her take his last name and captured a response of “His name” at 4:14.
• This entire interaction was quite drawn out as if she needed more energy to produce any responses.

 

Recorder 33 – ESTES 18:

 

 

• As we explained that we’d be willing to pass along her story, the word “Baby” was heard at :14.
• Hearing that clearly, we asked if she had a baby and we heard a response of “With Mike” at :33 followed by “Here” at :54.
• We then asked if she had the baby here, on site, and heard a response of “No” at 1:13.

 

Recorder 34 – ESTES 19:

 

 

• As our time wore thin, we explained that we had to go but that we would pass all of this information along and that we hoped she could move onto a better place with her baby, however, at :20, we captured “Dead.”
• We continued by explaining that we had to leave but heard another “No” at :30.
• Farthing our urgency, we explained that we had no choice but to leave and we heard a cry out of “Please” at :47.

 

Recorder 35 – ESTES 20:

 

 

• We asked if they wanted help passing on and heard a command of “Get away” at :20 but this was seemingly continued with another phrase of “From here” at 1:38. We put this together and it was apparently a warning of “Get away from here.”
• While we discussed within our group that she wanted us to leave, we heard “Bad place” at 1:56 as if she was actually trying to protect us.

 

Recorder 36 – ESTES 21:

 

 

• Unfortunately we explained that we could not do everything we needed to in order to help her pass on tonight, she told us that she was “Scared” at :36.
• Finally, we reiterated that we could not help them tonight and that we needed to leave but heard one finally cry out for “Mike” at 1:37.

 

Video 1 – Handheld Camera 1:

 

• Towards the center of the room, a light could be seen at :02. Upon a thorough review, this could be used as a good example of a simple dust particle floating, likely from someone walking above.

 

 

Video 2 – Handheld Camera 2:

 

• Moving from the left side toward the right side, a light anomaly was spotted at :06. Again, with a thorough review, this could be noted as a good example of a bug flying through the screen.

 

 

As the investigation concluded and the team began dismantling equipment and preparing to leave Fairfield County Infirmary, an unexpected incident occurred involving one of the digital audio recorders used throughout the evening. During the final inventory of investigative equipment, it was discovered that a recorder could not be accounted for. While the majority of the team remained near the equipment staging area to continue packing, Dan and Erin retraced their route through the building in an effort to locate the missing device.

Despite searching the areas where the recorder had most likely been used and passing through the entryway on multiple occasions, the device could not initially be found. After completing their search and beginning the return trip, however, the recorder was observed resting on a bench immediately outside the entrance to the equipment staging area, a location that had not been used as an investigative space and had already been visually checked earlier during the search. Neither investigator recalled the recorder being present during their previous pass through the same area.

Following its recovery, review of the device revealed that the recorded audio had been erased. Similar to an earlier recorder from the maintenance hallway session, the missing files were later recovered through digital restoration techniques. While no direct connection can be established between the temporary disappearance of the recorder and the loss of its recorded data, the similarity between the two incidents was considered noteworthy and has been preserved as part of the documented investigative record. As with all anomalous events, conventional explanations cannot be excluded, and the circumstances remain unresolved.

The follow up investigation of Fairfield County Infirmary revealed a location defined not by a single consistent type of activity, but by a layered and shifting pattern of environmental response that appeared to evolve throughout the course of the night. Rather than remaining static in tone or behavior, the building demonstrated distinct changes in perceived interaction depending on location, team configuration, and progression through the structure. Early sections of the investigation, particularly the maintenance hallway and coffin room, established an immediate baseline of environmental tension, while later areas such as the morgue and chapel escalated into structured communication and narrative-driven interaction.

 

Across multiple zones, activity appeared to transition from subtle environmental influence into increasingly responsive engagement. Initial anomalies, such as breathing-like sounds, intermittent knocks, and fluctuating atmospheric pressure, were later followed by more direct communication through EVP, spirit box, and Estes Method sessions. The morgue in particular demonstrated a higher degree of structured responsiveness, with clear verbal responses, name recognition, and contextual interaction that appeared timed to investigator prompts. This progression suggests either an intensification of environmental responsiveness over time or a shift in the nature of interaction as team presence became more focused and prolonged within the structure.

 

 

One of the most significant observational patterns emerged in the consistency of “follow-through” energy between locations. The sensation reported during the walkthrough of being watched or followed appeared to persist into later stages of the investigation, culminating in the dungeon where multiple investigators independently described the impression of a presence pacing behind the group. This perceived continuity across spaces suggests either environmental carryover between interconnected sections of the building or a sustained perceptual influence affecting group movement through the structure. While no direct visual confirmation was obtained, the consistency of experiential reporting across multiple team members is notable.

 

The chapel session represents the most coherent and emotionally structured communication of the investigation. The Estes Method session involving Derrick produced a narrative centered around the name “Mary,” accompanied by references to institutional control, forced separation, and deeply personal emotional trauma. Unlike earlier sections, this communication carried a distinctly narrative and identity-focused quality, with repeated emphasis on being acknowledged and having her story shared. The emotional tone of this interaction contrasted sharply with the more mechanical or fragmented responses observed elsewhere in the building, suggesting either a separate intelligence, a distinct layer of residual imprinting, or a location-specific emotional concentration within the chapel space.

 

Across the entirety of the investigation, the activity within Fairfield County Infirmary does not present as uniformly residual or purely intelligent in nature. Instead, it appears to exist along a spectrum of interaction styles, ranging from environmental anomalies and residual-like repetition in areas such as the men’s wing, to highly responsive and conversational engagement in the morgue and chapel. This layered behavior complicates singular classification and suggests that different sections of the building may retain distinct energetic or historical imprints that manifest independently depending on context and interaction.

 

 

Of particular note is the evolution of engagement intensity throughout the night. Early unease and passive environmental shifts gradually gave way to structured communication, emotional narrative delivery, and perceived interactive awareness. Whether this progression is the result of increased investigator sensitivity, environmental adaptation, or multiple overlapping phenomena remains undetermined. However, the consistency of reactions tied to specific locations supports the interpretation that the building does not function as a singular unified environment, but rather as a collection of zones each exhibiting their own behavioral tendencies.

 

From an investigative standpoint, Fairfield County Infirmary presents a case defined by complexity rather than conclusion. The evidence does not support a singular historical narrative or isolated phenomenon. Instead, it suggests a multi-layered environment capable of producing both residual-style activity and responsive interaction depending on context. While certain elements, particularly in the morgue and chapel, lean toward structured communication, the fragmented and variable nature of responses prevents definitive classification.

 

 

As with all investigations of this nature, the most accurate conclusion remains observational rather than absolute. Fairfield County Infirmary demonstrates characteristics consistent with a location influenced by layered history, emotional imprinting, and environmental variability. The findings suggest not a single story, but multiple overlapping impressions that become more or less visible depending on where attention is directed.

 

The night ultimately concludes not with resolution, but with pattern recognition. And in this case, the pattern is one of variation, responsiveness, and layered experience rather than a singular, definable presence.