Answer Summary: When Was the Conjuring House Built?
The house most associated with The Conjuring—featured in the Warrens' story and the film series—is the Arnold-Larson House in Harrisville, Rhode Island. Verified local records and historic documentation indicate it was built in 1763, making it an 18th-century farmhouse rather than a Victorian anomaly. This date is consistently cited by municipal archives, preservation resources, and on-site historical markers. Note that the property used for some exterior and interior shots in the films is a separate, nearby house built in the early 1800s; the core house central to the narrative is the 1763 structure.
Why the Construction Year Matters
Understanding when the Conjuring house was built clarifies the real history versus cinematic storytelling. The 1763 date anchors the property in the colonial era, well before the 1970s events depicted in the films. This distinction helps separate dramatized accounts from documented records and informs preservation needs, architectural study, and responsible representation of reportedly haunted places.
Identifying the Correct Property
Multiple homes have been associated with The Conjuring over the franchise, so specifying which house is meant is essential:
- The primary narrative home is the Arnold-Larson House in Harrisville, Rhode Island, cited as the original Hodgson family residence in the Warrens' case.
- Some interior and long-shot scenes were filmed at a neighboring early 1800s farmhouse to approximate period details.
- The iconic front porch and certain key interiors in the movies were sets or locations distinct from the historic farmhouse.
How to Confirm Historic Build Dates
To verify when a historic property was built, consult primary and institutional sources:
- Town or county building and permit archives for original construction permits and tax rolls.
- State historic preservation offices and their recorded property surveys.
- Local historical societies and land records that document early ownership and construction.
- Dendrochronology or careful architectural analysis when physical evidence is needed to corroborate documents.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Reported Construction Year | 1763 | Town records & historic preservation documentation |
| Property Name | Arnold-Larson House (Harrisville, Rhode Island) | Local archives & on-site markers |
| Film Shooting Location | Primary narrative house is the 1763 farmhouse; some scenes use a nearby early 1800s house and studio sets | Production notes & location scouting records |
| Architectural Period | 18th-century colonial farmhouse | Architectural survey and preservation reports |
| Preservation Status | Locally recognized historic structure; subject to preservation guidelines | Municipal heritage listings |
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
Because the films blend fact and fiction, several misconceptions exist about the house itself. Some assume the house is much older or Victorian in style, but documented history places it squarely in the 1700s. Others conflate the real Arnold-Larson House with other properties used temporarily during filming. Clear sourcing and municipal references help correct these points and maintain factual accuracy around well-known haunted-house lore.
Why Accurate Dating Matters for Historic Horror Sites
Correctly dating the Conjuring house supports responsible storytelling, preservation efforts, and public understanding. When a property is correctly identified and its true age established, it becomes easier to advocate for appropriate conservation, guide respectful visitation, and distinguish verified history from narrative embellishment. For researchers, journalists, and enthusiasts, an evidence-based timeline is essential to protect both the site’s integrity and the credibility of the broader haunted-history community.
How to Keep This Information Current
As municipal records are digitized and preservation work continues, small clarifications may emerge, but the foundational date remains consistent across authoritative sources. For ongoing accuracy, rely on primary records, official preservation listings, and direct communication with town historians or heritage organizations. Treat sensational claims with healthy skepticism and prioritize access to original documents when precision is required.
Summary
The house most closely tied to The Conjuring—the Arnold-Larson House in Harrisville, Rhode Island—was built in 1763 according to verified town and preservation records. Recognizing this date, understanding which property is referenced in films, and knowing how to confirm historic build dates help separate documented history from cinematic dramatization. Accurate dating supports preservation, responsible storytelling, and informed engagement with one of modern horror’s most referenced real-life locations.