House of Anguish at The Culbertson Mansion (New Albany, IN)
“Something Fish Is Going On”
By Noah Wullkotte: Visited on 10/3/26
House of Anguish is Southern Indiana’s Longest Running Haunt. They’ve been scaring the Hoosier state since 1985. We were approached by a variety of characters while we waited in line. An actress twisted her body as she walked backwards on her hands and feet. It was very creepy and reminded me of the Spider Walk from The Exorcist: The Version You’ve Never Seen. This classic haunt keeps track of those who passed out, barfed, crapped their pants, peed, cried and quit. After waiting only a few minutes, it was our turn for this year’s House of Anguish. We slowly walked through an eerie graveyard with unspeakable sights. We luckily survived and were able to walk up the steps to the carriage house.
Every season House of Anguish has a brand new theme and this year it’s Call of the Flood. In 1937 the Ohio River had a terrible flood and there came a voice from the prophet. This devastating flood submerged large parts of New Albany, Indiana in the process. The water changed people and not for the good. They were transformed into horrific fish people. It’s a little reminiscent of 2001’s Dagon which was based on stories from H. P. Lovecraft. It’s quite amazing what the haunt does every season with practically no budget. The inside of the carriage house looks old and lived in which makes it quite spooky and authentic. There are stains on the walls, old wallpaper and brick.
The characters are very bizarre. There were certain points where I was unsure of what I was experiencing Was that a half human, half catfish monster? Were those poor girls sitting in chairs slapped. This is an intense haunt where you’ll be looking over your shoulder. There’s a lot of horrifying scenes throughout House of Anguish. A mermaid creature flops around as you try to escape.
(Proceeds go towards the restoration of the Culbertson Mansion)
House of Anguish is well known for their coffin ride. If you’re lucky enough then you’ll lay down and kiss your sweet ass goodbye as a coffin goes full speed. Others will be chosen to enter the spinning box of doom. Either way, it’s an unforgettable ride that makes this haunt standout. There are some scary props and decor at House of Anguish. My favorite is the monster fish that comes out of the wall or was that a monster eel? You be the judge when you visit.
House of Anguish does a great job sticking to their theme. One scene revolves around a store with a twisted fish monger who lays on the ground. Another scene will have you placed on a table while you’re blessed. Are you worthy of ascension? House of Anguish is a light touch haunt which makes it more suspenseful. An actor behind black cloth tried to escape. I was worried for a second that I would be its next victim. House of Anguish has its own chainsaw maniac. Before we entered the haunt, we could see a family of four fleeing for their lives. It was hysterical watching little kids frightened for some reason. They were having fun either way.
Total tour time is 13 minutes, but could be longer if you’re frozen in fear. Tickets are $20 per victim and all proceeds go towards the restoration of the Culbertson Mansion. Parking is free. Trick or Treat at House of Anguish takes place on October 29th from 6-8pm and it’s $5 per trick or treater. This isn’t your typical haunt because they change their theme every season. This makes it a brand new experience and a good value. This is an exciting haunt and deserves larger crowds. The word needs to get out about how unique and bizarre House of Anguish is. It’s a great time for friends and family. It’s scary, suspenseful and fun. Yes, some of the scenes could use more detail and eye catching props, but overall it’s a great attraction that far exceeds your expectations.
Length-7 Design-8 Props-7 Acting-9 Scare Effect-9
Final Stab: 8.0
www.houseofanguish.com
914 E Main St
New Albany, IN 47150
