Abbot Hall is home to many of the college’s science and laboratories studies classes, and laboratories has been long known for its eerie and unsettling environment. Known to have harsh chemical smells and the hum of laboratory equipment filling its walls. But recently, students and faculty say there seems to be something else lingering in the hallways, something they can’t quite explain.
During the past few weeks, multiple reports have been made of strange occurrences in the building, especially in the second-floor chemistry labs. Flickering lights, unexplained noises and chemical reactions, and lab equipment moving on its own have left many wondering, is Abbot Hall haunted?
“I was alone finishing up my lab report around 10 p.m. in Abbott, when I heard glasses clinking behind me,” said Fr. Kirra Grimm. “When I turned around, I saw chemicals spilled all over the counter and fumes rising from them.”
Rumors have quickly spread around campus, with some claiming this haunting spirit may belong to a past chemistry professor Justin Meyer, who was known for late nights and seemed to never leave Abbot Hall. Because of this some think his spirit may live there forever, and his dad jokes will forever haunt the hallways.
“While in Abbot I hear whispers of corny dad jokes, at first I thought I was crazy but then my friends heard them too,” said Fr. Amelia Strong. “I will admit some of them are pretty funny and make me laugh, but regardless it is still a little scary.”
Campus security has not confirmed any paranormal activity but has acknowledged an increase in late-night calls from Abbot Hall. While their reports have not been released to the public, to ease the student body, they are trying to keep the investigation as private as possible.
“We have responded to reports of noises and unusual disturbances,” said the security officer. “So far we have not found any evidence of trespassing or safety concerns.”
This unexplained activity has left campus security at a loss and caused them to call in the professionals for extra help, Mystery Incorporated, otherwise known as the Scooby gang. The Mystery van has been sighted outside of Abbot Hall for the past week; however, Scooby Doo and his gang are currently not taking any questions about the reports.
Despite reassurances, curiosity and uneasiness continue to grow in the student body. Some students have begun to avoid the building after dark, while others have started to lean into the mystery.
“It is kind of cool if you think about it,” said Strong. “It makes chemistry more interesting and will be a great campfire story one day.”
Whether the cause of these sightings is overactive imagination, delusions from stress of studying lab exams, or something more supernatural, Abbot Hall has definitely gained a new reputation. For now, the only thing that is certain is in the late hours of the night; the chemistry labs may be conducting experiments of their own.
While campus security has not confirmed any closure of the building, they are advising students to continue to report any unusual activity occurring in the building. They also recommend using the buddy system while in the building and to bring a friend if students plan on being in the building after dark.
Happy April Fools! Don’t worry, Abbott Hall is not haunted. Or is it?
Sonya Skar is a Dakota Student General Reporter. She can be reached at [email protected].
