Helltown
Eminent domain created urban legend magnet
State: Ohio
County: Summit County
Founded: 1806
Abandoned: 1974
Helltown was Boston, Ohio—until 1974 when the federal government used eminent domain to create Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Forced removal and boarded-up houses spawned legends: Satanic churches, mutant snakes, crybaby bridges, and the 'End of the World' road. Most legends are debunked; most buildings now demolished.
Quick Facts
- Federal eminent domain forced residents out in 1974
- Legends of Satanic churches debunked—just gothic architecture
- Abandoned school bus? A family lived in it during renovation
- 'Mutant snake' legend came from actual 1985 toxic dump discovery
Location
Address: Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Summit County, Ohio
Coordinates: 41.25, -81.5583