The Brinton Museum in Sheridan welcomed the community to its annual Haunted Ranch celebration on October 24. The event, held on the museum’s historic ranch grounds, featured a variety of Halloween‑themed activities that blended fun scares with educational experiences.
Costumes, Creatures and Community Spirit
Executive Director Kendra Heimbuck and her daughter Harper arrived in costume, adding a personal touch to the festivities. Heimbuck dressed as a trash‑can monster, while Harper’s outfit delighted onlookers. Their participation underscored the museum’s commitment to family‑friendly programming.
Visitors explored the old ranch outbuildings, which have been transformed into themed stations. Highlights included a haunted leather shop, a headless horseman display, and a spider‑infested corridor that sent shivers down the spines of younger guests. The atmosphere was lively, with laughter and gasps echoing through the historic structures.
Science Kids Brings Learning to the Haunted Ranch
Partnering with the event, Science Kids set up a hands‑on exhibit featuring “creepy crawlies” such as insects, spiders, and reptiles. Their interactive stations offered children the chance to handle live specimens under the guidance of knowledgeable staff, turning fear into curiosity. The organization reported a strong turnout, noting that the blend of Halloween fun and science education attracted families seeking both entertainment and enrichment.
“We love seeing kids get excited about nature, even when it’s a little spooky,” said a Science Kids representative. “Our goal is to spark interest in the natural world, and the Haunted Ranch gives us a perfect platform to do that.”
Growing Popularity and Future Plans
According to museum staff, the Haunted Ranch has grown significantly since its revamp last year. By expanding the number of experiences and improving the layout of the outbuildings, the museum created a more immersive environment that encouraged repeat visits. Attendance numbers rose compared to the previous year, and organizers anticipate continued growth as word spreads throughout the region.
“It’s wonderful to see the community come together in such a vibrant way,” Heimbuck said. “The event not only celebrates Halloween but also showcases the museum’s historic property and our partnership with local educators.”
Looking Ahead
The Brinton Museum plans to build on this year’s success by adding new attractions and expanding outreach to schools and youth groups. Organizers hope the Haunted Ranch will become a staple of Sheridan’s fall calendar, offering a safe, family‑oriented alternative to typical holiday parties.
For families interested in future events, the museum encourages checking its website and social media channels for updates on upcoming programming, ticket information, and volunteer opportunities.
Original reporting: Sheridan Media (Sheridan WY) — read the source article.
