Thursday, December 5, 2024
One of the best things about Halloween is the thrill of ghost stories and haunted houses. There’s something special about gathering with friends and family to share in the spooky, spine-tingling fun of the season. From tales of ghosts to eerie decorations that send a delightful chill down your spine, Halloween invites everyone to step into a world of playful frights and fantastic displays. And right here in Granbury, there’s one haunted spectacle that captures this spirit perfectly: Charlie Nangle’s Skeletown.
If you drive through the Abe’s Landing subdivision this Thursday through Sunday (weather permitting), you may notice something bone-chilling and grin-inducing at 3606 Abes Landing Drive. It’s not just a house—it’s “Skeletown,” a Halloween wonderland built by Granbury resident Charlie Nangle. What started as a small collection of five skeletons doing aerobics in 2018 has grown into a full-fledged, free-to-enter haunted house that the whole neighborhood (and beyond) can enjoy.
Charlie Nangle, a Hood County resident since 2017, has turned his yard into a ghoulishly delightful display, bringing laughter and a touch of fright to everyone who stops by. “A neighbor told me I needed more skeletons,” Nangle recalls, chuckling. “So off we went!” And he certainly delivered. Now, five years later, Skeletown boasts a spine-tingling array of skeletons, animatronics, and other Halloween figurines, each with its own humorous touch.
Each year, Nangle ups the ante, doubling Skeletown’s size and content to keep visitors on their toes. You’ll find everything from life-sized skeletons rocking out on guitars to an aerobics class of skeletons in mid-stretch. “It’s a labor of love,” says Nangle. “It’s for everyone to enjoy, and it’s free to the public.” True to his generous spirit, Nangle has even added a donation box where visitors can contribute to Mission Granbury, a local women’s shelter, if they feel inspired to give back.
Skeletown isn’t just about the displays; it’s an experience. Nangle encourages visitors to mingle with the skeletons and snap as many photos as they’d like. “People really get into it,” he says. “Kids and adults alike have fun posing with the skeletons and making memories.” His goal is to create a space where people can experience Halloween in a fun, family-friendly way while also offering them a place to come together and share some laughs.
Charlie’s quirky sense of humor shines throughout the display. Among the skeletons, you’ll find little details and jokes tucked into every corner. There’s a giant skeleton with glowing eyes, a skeleton band jamming out, and even a few comical warning signs. One sign humorously reads, “I Died Because I Didn’t Send $20,000 to That Nigerian Prince to Claim My $10 Million Inheritance.” These playful touches add a lighthearted feel to Skeletown, making it clear that this haunted house is here for entertainment and fun, not for scares.
Skeletown has become a community tradition, with people of all ages stopping by to marvel at Nangle’s elaborate setup. “It’s great to see neighbors and families coming together,” says Nangle. “Halloween should be about having fun, and that’s exactly what Skeletown is all about.” As each Halloween season draws to a close, Nangle begins planning next year’s version of Skeletown, brainstorming new ideas and expanding his ever-growing skeletal crew.
Nangle says the displays will be ready for viewing at 5 p.m. on Halloween night, the 31st. Weather permitting (the animatronics hate rain), I'll leave them up through the weekend. We will be open Halloween night until the last guest leaves.”
So, if you’re in Granbury this Halloween, don’t miss a visit to Skeletown. With its spooky skeletons, cheerful community vibe, and the chance to support a great cause, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season. Just bring your camera, bring your friends, and prepare to enjoy a “haunt” that’s unlike any other.
micky@hcnews.com
