OTZINACHSON 

By Lou Bernard 

Centuries ago, long before European settlement, the West Branch Valley had a name that you don’t hear much anymore. The Native Americans of the area referred to it as “Otzinachson.” 

The exact meaning of the name has been discussed over the years, but at least one source makes the claim that the name suggested the whole valley was haunted. In 1737, Moravian missionary Count Zinzendorf wrote in his journal that the name meant “Demon’s Den,” a claim that was later backed up by a professor, according to a book by John Meginness. Zinzendorf wrote,”The surrounding country and the West Branch of the Susquehanna are called Otzinachson, i.e. the ‘Demon’s Den,’ for here the evil spirits….have their seats and hold their revels.” 

In other words, Renovo is on the northern end of a very haunted valley. 

There may be something about the West Branch Valley that makes it more susceptible to ghosts and paranormal stories. From all the way down in McElhattan to the Kettle Creek area, there are stories of haunted places and incidents. 

This includes Renovo. 

The Lock Haven Paranormal Seekers have investigated certain homes, and plenty of paranormal stories have been discovered. Land and water cryptids, ghosts, UFOs, and unexplained occurrences have happened throughout Renovo and the immediate area, and LHPS is going to feature them on a tour. 

On October 25 at 7 PM, beginning at 530 Erie Avenue, you can join the tour for five dollars and hear all about these haunted stories. Lou Bernard, field leader of LHPS, will be your tour guide on a very haunted night. All proceeds will go to the Renovo Heritage Foundation, and no matter what the name “Otzinachson” meant, it’s a worthy cause and a spooky, enjoyable tour.

Date and Time:

Sunday, October 25, 2026
The event begins at 7:00 p.m.