By Chelsea Meyer
Rock River Current
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ROCKFORD — On a limestone bluff overlooking Kent Creek, you’ll find one of the most haunted places in Illinois: Tinker Swiss Cottage.

On the aged walls of this cottage, you’ll see photos of Rockford’s rich history hanging from one of the first families that used to live there in the mid-1800s.  You also might feel the spirits of the Tinker family or a feeling that you are being watched.

While these encounters with the dead can be frightening, Samantha Hochmann, who has worked at Tinker Swiss Cottage as its executive director for nearly six years, says there is nothing to be afraid of.

Hochmann tells B103’s Morning Routine with Matt and Chelsea that she has experienced her own encounters with Robert Tinker, his wife, Mary, and their workers.

(story continues below video)

More spooky news: Twisted Crypt delivers Halloween scares in Rockford

Rockford historian and writer Kathi Kresol has done paranormal investigating of her own at historic locations in the area over the last two decades, including Veterans Memorial Hall, Midway Village and Graham-Ginestra House, which have all reported ghostly activity.

“If you want to have an experience – a consistent chance of an experience – (Tinker Swiss Cottage) is really the best place to come,” Kresol said in a video interview with the Rock River Current. “It never fails to impress with the hauntings.”

Listen to their ghost stories below!