(Above) Right here on the LHPS campus, eerie feelings have emerged when students and staff have walked alone in Highland House, where students come to attend classes in the traditional and digital arts. Highland House was originally a family home, built in the late 1940s or early 1950s. After Orlando Junior College purchased the land, it was used as offices but, “Retained a ‘house’ layout,” states Dr. Brenda Walton. She also said that by the 1970s, the land became a part of Lake Highland with various purposes, including hosting home economics, science, and yearbook classes as well as a space for faculty to host holiday parties. By the 2000s, it became the arts building. However, with a long history comes troublesome events, including the deaths of many people around the property. Ms. Ginger Bryant, states that although she doesn’t believe in ghosts, she has, “Seen things in that building that [she is] not able to explain with any sort of scientific backing.” Other administrators and students have relayed similar sentiments, stating that they feel some sort of presence or negative energy when passing by the building.
As the summer heat is beginning to cool down, and the autumn wind begins to pick up, people across the country are preparing for the scariest time of the year. Aside from the tricks (and treats) and frighteningly realistic decor, this is the time when even those who don’t believe in spooky stories might be persuaded. In fact, the city of Orlando is home to many eerie tales. From Highland House on campus to Winter Park and Orlando, here are some of the most creepy and mysterious glimpses into local history, guaranteed to send chills down your back.
