Haunted Hayrides of Greater Rochester
Greater Rochester's LONGEST RUNNING Haunted Hayride attraction!
The legend of the haunted DeFisher Fruit Farm in Williamson is widely known throughout the Northeast. Ever since the infamous “Harvest Night Slaughter” of 1859—when over two dozen farm hands were found tortured and butchered, the property has been officially designated as a NY State “hotbed site” of enchanting, spirit-filled activity.
Experts claim that the ghost of reputed psychopath William Fee (the only person ever executed in Wayne County, NY) roams the countryside every Autumn revisiting the scene of his murderous rampage. Fee, a laborer—was the primary suspect in the horrific massacre on what is now known as the DeFisher Farm on Eddy Road. All witnesses mysteriously disappeared and Fee was never charged in the deaths of the farm hands. (Fee was executed in the Spring of 1860 for the unrelated strangulation murder of an unidentified woman in Lyons, NY.) Official law enforcement records of the slaughter were destroyed in a fire in the early 1900s…making definitive proof of this massacre somewhat sketchy and unexplained. Did it really happen? Is it folklore? Only the old-timers know for sure.
The greatest paranormal activity typically occurs from late September thru early November—peaking around October 24th-31st. Some still say it’s all just “Halloween fun”. Eye-witnesses claim actual interaction with apparitions, macabre spirits, and assorted demonic phantoms. They share believable, consistent accountings of an “evil presence” that menaces, frightens, and terrorizes visitors to the apple orchards after dark.
After blocking access to the property for over one hundred years, county officials gave permission to ‘Haunted Hayrides of Greater Rochester’ to conduct highly-controlled wagon rides into the woods allowing the “curious” to visit this legendary paranormal hotspot. After more than a decade of observation, police authorities still monitor the level of fright and disturbia and reserve the right to terminate the nightly wagon excursions into the orchards based on regulated levels of safety for visitors, tourists and employees.
Even though spine-chilling screams can be heard in the orchards throughout the late afternoon, ALL rides begin at dusk—for maximum chill-seeking. Depending on the level of spirit encounters in the woods, the typical duration is anywhere from 25 to 30 minutes, and rarely exceeds 35 minutes for your personal safety and mental health.”
It is suggested that “Curiosity Seekers” arrive early to avoid line waits and potential sellouts.
