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The infamous “haunted” Annabelle doll, inspiration for The Conjuring film series, has arrived in Illinois just in time for Halloween, sparking excitement and apprehension among paranormal enthusiasts in the Midwest. The doll is touring the country with The New England Society for Psychic Research (NESPR), appearing at supernatural and horror conventions as part of their “Devils on the Run Tour.”

The latest stop is the Rock Island Roadhouse Esoteric Expo, scheduled for Saturday from 9 am to 6 pm at the Haunted Rock Island Roadhouse, 500 20th St. “Rock Island, IL (and the Quad Cities)…We made it!” NESPR posted on Facebook two days before the event, announcing the doll’s arrival.

Ryan D Buell, host and executive producer of A&E’s Paranormal State, shared a photo on social media, captioned, “#Annabelle is now in Rock Island, Illinois.” Buell has joined the tour, drawing attention to the event despite recent controversy surrounding the doll.

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Tragedy And Controversy

On July 13, paranormal researcher Dan Rivera, 54, died unexpectedly in his hotel room after completing the Pennsylvania leg of the “Devils on the Run Tour.” Rivera, an Army veteran and father of four, had been a prominent figure in the paranormal community. Despite his death, organisers confirmed in late August that Annabelle would continue her Illinois tour.

Locals have had mixed reactions to Annabelle’s arrival, with some expressing fascination and others urging caution.

Annabelle Doll Tour Draws Fear

The announcement of Annabelle’s arrival in Illinois sparked strong reactions online. One user wrote, “Now they bringing the Annabelle doll to Illinois 🤦🏾 keep that lil b*** THE F*** outta Chicago,”* while another vented frustration at the tour itself, saying, “Not to let Annabelle on tour… wtf… that person’s to blame… target him or her… both.”

A third user aske, “Coincidence or cursed? Paranormal investigator Dan Rivera died suddenly while on tour with the infamous Annabelle doll. Are some legends more than just stories?” The responses highlighted a mix of humour, fear, and curiosity, reflecting the polarising reputation of one of the world’s most infamous haunted objects.

Esoteric Expo Highlights

The Rock Island Roadhouse Esoteric Expo promises a day-long celebration of curiosity and connection. Attendees can meet psychics, paranormal investigators, cryptid researchers, and creators from across the world. Highlights include:

Warren’s Devils on the Run Tour: A look into the legacy of famed paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren.

The Empty Casket Talking Board Museum: Exploring the history of spirit communication.

Meet-and-Greet with “The Real Annabelle”: One of the most notorious haunted objects in history.

General admission is USD 5, with additional experiences and readings available for purchase. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, attend spiritual workshops, and participate in live panels and gallery readings.

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Annabelle’s Dark History

The original Annabelle doll, a Raggedy Ann purchased from a hobby store in 1970, quickly gained notoriety after its owner reported strange activity, including the doll moving on its own and leaving messages on parchment paper. Ed and Lorraine Warren eventually took possession of the doll, intrigued by its alleged paranormal activity, and it has since become one of the most famous haunted objects in history.