PENNSYLVANIA STATE- Located in Western Pennsylvania, Evans City Cemetery was the setting for the iconic zombie film Night of the Living Dead. George Romero, the movie's director and co-writer, died of lung cancer in 2017.
Rise and Visit: The Night of the Living Dead Cemetery and Museum in Evans City
For horror movie buffs and fans of the undead, Evans City, Pennsylvania, holds a special place in cinematic history. This unassuming town was the filming location for George A. Romero's groundbreaking 1968 film, Night of the Living Dead, which redefined the zombie genre and continues to terrify and thrill audiences today.
The Evans City Cemetery Chapel: A Fight for Survival
The iconic opening scene of Night of the Living Dead, where a ghoul attacks siblings Barbara and Johnny, was filmed at the chapel in the Evans City Cemetery. This chapel still stands today, a tangible link to the film's chilling legacy. However, it faces a grim fate: a demolition warrant.
Thankfully, Gary Streiner, a local resident and fan of the film, has launched a campaign to save this piece of horror history. With the support of fellow fans, Streiner is raising funds to restore the chapel and ensure its preservation for future generations of horror enthusiasts.
The Night of the Living Dead Museum: A Shrine to the Undead
Evans City is also home to the Night of the Living Dead Museum, a must-visit destination for film fans. This small but fascinating museum houses a treasure trove of memorabilia, including:
- Props and Wardrobes: Get up close and personal with items used in the film, offering a glimpse behind the scenes of this low-budget masterpiece.
- "Maul of Fame": Leave your mark (a bloody handprint, that is) on the museum's unique "Maul of Fame."
- Set Replicas: Explore recreations of iconic scenes from the film, transporting you back to that terrifying Night in Evans City.
- Gift Shop: Stock up on Night of the Living Dead merchandise, from t-shirts and posters to unique collectibles.
Why Visit Evans City?
- Horror History: Pay homage to the birthplace of the modern zombie film and experience the chilling atmosphere where it all began.
- Unique Attraction: The museum offers a one-of-a-kind experience for horror fans, providing a fascinating glimpse into the making of a cult classic.
- Support Preservation: By visiting the museum and contributing to the chapel restoration, you can help preserve a vital horror movie history.
Plan Your Trip:
- Location: The Evans City Cemetery and the Night of the Living Dead Museum are in Evans City, Pennsylvania, about 30 miles north of Pittsburgh.
- Museum Hours: Check the museum's website for current hours of operation.
- Support the Cause: Consider donating to the chapel restoration project to help ensure its survival.
Embrace the horror and pilgrimage to Evans City, where the dead still roam (on screen, at least), and a piece of cinematic history is waiting to be discovered.
