From Poor Farm to Paranormal Hotspot: The Chilling Legacy of Ashmore Estates What began as a 19th-century refuge for the poor, sick, and mentally ill has transformed into one of Illinois’ most famously haunted locations. Originally known as the Coles County Poor Farm, Ashmore Estates bears the weight of over 150 years of hardship, loss, and transition—from pauper house to psychiatric hospital to abandoned ruin, and finally, to a meticulously restored destination for history buffs and paranormal investigators alike. With countless confirmed deaths on the property and decades of institutional care, it’s no wonder many believe spirits still linger. From the clearly seen apparition of Joe Bloxom to the playful ghost of young Elva tugging at guests’ clothes, the estate seems alive with echoes of its past. Add to that unexplained voices, shadow figures, and the aggressive energy said to push visitors in the boiler room, and Ashmore Estates becomes far more than just a historical site—it’s a place where the past refuses to rest.   For photos and more info on Pioneers Museum, visit HauntedUS.com: https://hauntedus.com/illinois/ashmore-estates/ Connect with Haunted US Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube Find us on Facebook Consider supporting us on Patreon Presented By Sara Sweeney Erica Barrett Research By Sara Sweeney Research supported by the Haunted US Head Writer Mitch Goth Production Assistance By David Sweeney Executive Producer Brandon Rugzie Music By Colleen Johnson Haunted Atlas is a production of Haunted US - visit HauntedUS.com for more information ©2025 Haunted Atlas, Haunted US. All rights reserved.