Uncovering the 'Spooky Secrets" of Kent State Trumbull Campus

PANICd Paranormal Videos
May 6
5 min read

We were aware of the paranormal activity at the campus for some time now, and in December of 2024, Shawn decided to stop by the campus in February of 2025 to start looking into these claims and find out what could be the origin of the paranormal claims.

Establishment of the Campus

Kent State Trumbull Campus was established in 1965 as a significant addition to the Kent State University system, aimed specifically at addressing the growing demand for higher education in the region. The founding of this campus was a response to the needs of residents in Trumbull County and the surrounding areas in Ohio, who sought accessible educational opportunities without the need to travel long distances to attend university. Initially, the campus operated in temporary facilities in Warren Harding High School in Warren, Ohio, which presented challenges in terms of space and resources. However, in 1971, the campus relocated to its current site in Champion, Ohio, a move that marked a new chapter in its development and allowed for a more permanent and dedicated educational environment.

Growth and Development

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Kent State Trumbull experienced significant growth and development, reflecting the increasing demand for higher education in the community. During this period, the campus expanded its academic offerings, beginning with the introduction of associate degree programs that catered to the educational aspirations of local students. As the needs of the workforce evolved, the campus recognized the importance of providing bachelor's degree programs, which allowed students to pursue advanced education closer to home, thus reducing barriers to higher learning. This strategic expansion not only enriched the academic landscape of the region but also played a crucial role in enhancing the local economy by equipping graduates with the skills necessary for the job market.

In the years following its establishment, Kent State Trumbull saw significant infrastructure development that was essential for supporting its growing student population. Key facilities were constructed to enhance the educational experience and provide students with the resources they needed to succeed. Among these facilities were:

The Classroom/Administration Building, which served as the central hub for academic activities and administrative functions, provided classrooms, offices, and meeting spaces.
The Technology Building supports science and technology programs. Modern laboratories and classrooms supported hands-on learning and innovation.
The Student Union, a vibrant space that became the heart of campus life, offered students a place to gather, study, and participate in various activities and events.

These facilities accommodated the increasing number of students and significantly enhanced the overall learning environment, making Kent State Trumbull a more attractive option for prospective students.

Kent State Trumbull has consistently prioritized strong ties with the local community, recognizing the importance of collaboration and engagement in fulfilling its mission. The campus has developed and maintained various programs and services that cater to the diverse needs of Trumbull County residents, including continuing education, vocational training, and community outreach initiatives. Furthermore, Kent State Trumbull has forged valuable partnerships with local businesses, schools, and organizations to promote educational initiatives and workforce development. These collaborations have not only enriched the educational offerings available to students but have also contributed to the economic vitality of the region by preparing a skilled workforce that meets the demands of local industries.

Recently, Kent State Trumbull has continued to adapt and evolve in response to the changing landscape of higher education and the needs of its students. The campus has made significant strides in incorporating new technologies into its curriculum, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern workforce. Additionally, Kent State Trumbull has focused on expanding its online learning options, providing greater flexibility for students who may be balancing work and family commitments alongside their educational pursuits. The enhancement of student support services has also been a priority, with initiatives aimed at improving academic advising, counseling, and career services to help students navigate their educational journeys successfully.

Today, Kent State Trumbull Campus stands as a vital educational institution within the region, offering a diverse range of programs that cater to the needs and aspirations of its students. The campus plays a crucial role in contributing to the economic and cultural development of the community, fostering a spirit of learning and growth. Its unwavering commitment to accessibility and quality education remains a cornerstone of its mission, ensuring that residents of Trumbull County and beyond have the opportunity to pursue their academic goals and achieve their full potential.

About the Land

When it comes to the paranormal activity on the campus, we need to look at the land the buildings are built upon. This was the former location of Trumbull County Infirmary. When we read the description of the paranormal claims that referenced a medium being brought out and sensing that the property was a former "senior" home, we now believe that the medium was sensing the infirmary.

Historically, infirmaries, also known as poor farms, would house those who were in debt to others. During pandemics like tuberculosis or yellow fever, these locations also served as housing for individuals affected by these viruses. They also served as retirement residences. Most of these institutions were closed or sold to private companies to become nursing homes when state or county funding ran out. This would have probably been the case with the Trumbull County Infirmary Farm as well.

On the PANICd.com page for this location, we have attached some newspaper articles dating back to when the location was in operation, providing some of the details of the conditions, since it was required by law that the councilman had to visit these locations and provide a public report to the community.

The Trumbull County Infirmary Cemetery

Another piece of information that is worth mentioning here is about the Trumbull County Infirmary Cemetery. Most poor farms also had a cemetery on the grounds. Keep in mind that the state or county had custody of the residents at these locations. If no one claimed the body, it was buried in a pauper's grave. In researching the location of the cemetery on the grounds, FindAGrave.com lists this location as having 116 memorials for the cemetery. The intriguing part is when you click on the map for the location of the cemetery. The image shows the object positioned right in the center of the lake located behind the Kent State Trumbull Campus.

Map from find a grave. — Aerial shot of cemetery from FindAGrave.com

A few of the cemetery location from the parking lot.

We will still continue to look into this location and try to find more information about the Infirmary. Currently, there is limited information available online, which may necessitate a visit to the library for further research. This will be an open case, and we will make another post once we find out more to share.