THE STORY
Reported Haunting
Anoka State Hospital opened in 1900 and is said to be haunted by former patients who died during its years as a psychiatric institution. Stories surrounding the property include spirits in the hospital buildings and underground tunnels once used by patients attempting to escape. Witnesses have reported unexplained noises, shadowy figures, and an oppressive presence in areas associated with the hospital's difficult past.
Anoka State Hospital has been known by many names in its past, including First State Asylum for the Insane, Anoka State Asylum, Anoka State Hospital and most recently Anoka-Metro Regional Treatment Center. It was originally opened in 1900 and is said to be haunted by spirits of those who have died here over the years. Like many old mental health facilities, rumors abound of neglect and abuse, but add to that stories of underground tunnels through which patients tried to escape. Many patients are said to have escaped another way–by hanging themselves on the premises. Witnesses say they have heard phantom footsteps, noises, whispers and laughter and felt cold spots within the building and the tunnels, which reportedly have been closed to all but maintenance workers and security guards.