Riverton’s most haunted house

RIVERTON — The Barkhamsted Lions Club sponsored a haunted house attraction at Riverton Self Storage on Saturday, Oct. 24.

Thrill-seekers who came to walk through the house were pleased with the theatrics and original set dreamed up by co-organizers Mark Mahoney, actors and volunteers. 

For $5, horror enthusiasts walked through multiple rooms in the dark, not knowing who, or what to expect next.

The actors wore film-quality costumes and it was clear that a lot of hard work and passion drives this seasonal operation.

Co-organizer Mike Kinsley of the Barkhamsted Elementary School PTO said that Mahoney and himself have been involved with this project for the past three years. 

“The children that are inside the haunted house seem to be having a good time,” Kinsley said. “I’ve been here every night for the past two weeks in preparation. We’ve had a whole lot of believers, and the people of the town are all involved now, so hopefully we can go bigger next year, because the whole upstairs of this place is empty.”

Mahoney, who is a member of the Barkhamsted Lions Club and the Economic Development Committee, agrees that the goal for next year is to go big.

“In the future, we hope to make the haunted house part of an annual harvest festival here, to draw people into town,” Mahoney said. “For me, it’s two-pronged: To help the local businesses and for the Lions Club to be able to get the support because they put all of their money back into the town.” 

Mahoney said that the generosity of the community in making this attraction come to life. 

“The owner of the Riverton General Store, Leslie DiMartino, has been fantastic in staying open late with a full menu for people,” Mahoney said. “The fire department has stepped up to help here, and the Riverton Fair grounds and Riverton Self Storage have all been incredible.”

Riverton Lions Club member Ted Murphy was one of the many volunteers to help co-organize the event.

“The Barkhamsted Lions Club has gone from about three members to 27 in the past year,” Murphy said. “Because of that we have been able to raise more money through our various activities.” 

“We’re lucky to have a great town and great people, and can put everybody together for a great event,” Mahoney said.