Old Canal Inn - Real Nutley Haunt

Established in 1934 as JoJos Tavern, it changed its name to the Old Canal Inn in 1948 when it was bought over by the Skorupski family. It continues to remain open and active to this day. While serving patrons food and drink, the Inn is also known for a local legend.

It is the place where the Death Chair is housed. Rumor has it that an unusual incident occurred at the inn involving two men fighting at length over the seat. Both men died 10 days later of a heart attack and to this day the Inn has roped-off the area around the chair. According to reporting from “Weird NJ,” they say that at least three people have died after sitting on the chair. In 1964, when two men sat on the chair, they ended up dying of a heart attack within three days of each other.

The unusual events all connected to the Death Chair has inspired the Inn to even name a platter called the “Death Seat Burger Platter.” It consists of a beer batter deep fried burger topped with jalapenos, mashed potatoes, and nacho cheddar cheese.

Visiting the Inn today, you’ll see the Death Seat remains there with warning and signage as a precautionary measure should anywhere dare to try sitting in it.

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