Hill City After Dark
Our story
Cortney Nicole | Paranormal Investigator & History Enthusiast
With over 16 years of experience navigating the shadows of abandoned halls, Cortney Nicole has dedicated her life to uncovering the stories the living have forgotten. By day, she works in the mental health field; by night, she bridges the gap between our world and the next. For Cortney, the unknown isn’t something to fear—it’s a mystery waiting to be solved. Whether she’s researching local history or relaxing at home with her two dogs, Zuko and Athena, Cortney is on a mission to turn “scary” into “intriguing” through education and empathy.
Sean Elliott Jr. | Paranormal Researcher & Historical Preservationist
A Lynchburg native with a soul rooted in the past, Sean Elliott Jr. has spent over 20 years chasing the echoes of history. From his days as a Nashville recording artist to his time on the front lines as a Civil War reenactor, Sean’s life is a tapestry of storytelling and discovery. As a dedicated paranormal researcher and science guru, he utilizes a methodical approach to the unknown. Whether he’s metal detecting for relics, collecting war memorabilia, or investigating a haunt, Sean’s mission is simple: to bridge the gap between science and the supernatural.
Hill City Tours and Hill City After Dark LLC are an independent tour and event company dedicated to showing both sides of Lynchburg’s story.
During the day, tours explore the city’s deep history, from its rugged landscape and historic architecture to the wars and hardships that helped shape the community along the James River. The goal is simple: make history feel real again.
At night, things take a darker turn. Hill City After Dark digs into Lynchburg’s haunted reputation, local legends, and unexplained stories. Guests are taken through historic streets, old wartime locations, and places where strange experiences and lingering energy have become part of the city’s identity.
Everything is built around real research, real history, and immersive storytelling. No overproduced gimmicks. Just an honest look at the people, places, and stories that still haunt Lynchburg long after the lights go out.
Lori Arthur
4 weeks ago
I did the paranormal investigation at the Miller-Claytor home last night and WOW! What an amazing experience. This was my first time doing an investigation and I was blown away by the historical knowledge and the investigation itself. I highly recommend and I plan on doing more investigations when they come up. There was so much activity and unexplainable things happening during our investigation. I am 100% hooked. Check them out, you won't be disappointed at all.
Leslie Dinius
4 weeks ago
Amazing experience. Highly recommend the tours. I went to the Ghosts of Gallows Hill and the tour guide was phenomenal!
Lauren Johns
1 month ago
First time ever doing something like this and I can say I truly enjoyed it!! I will definitely be buying more tickets!! The experience was absolutely terrific!! If you are into paranormal history most definitely check out Hill City after dark!
nicole wins
1 month ago
Had such an amazing time last night at the Miller Clayor house. This was our first investigation as a group and I cant say enough great things about this place. The energy there is just awesome! I cant wait to go back and do this again. A must for anyone who is looking for the mystery inside of the history of the agter life. You will be mind blown! A+++++
Nicole
1 month ago
Had an amazing time investigating last night at the Miller Claytor house! Great knowledge of the history and helped us when needed since we are still learning how to handle the paranormal! Can’t wait to do it again!
Aerielle Dodson
2 months ago
Hill city paranormal is bringing history and paranormal investigating back to life in Lynchburg!! ♥️ Sean and Cortney are a sweet couple who have mentored me in the paranormal world. I am so grateful to them and all they have done for me. They are very professional at what they do! Check them out! ♥️
Chris Mendace
2 months ago
🌟 Exceptional Experience with Hill City After Dark!
If you are looking for an experience that perfectly blends deep historical knowledge with absolute professionalism, look no further than Hill City After Dark.
From start to finish, I was blown away by their exceptional grasp of local history. They don’t just recite dates and names; they bring the past to life with incredible depth, nuance, and captivating storytelling. It’s clear that an immense amount of research goes into what they do. Every location we explored felt rich with context, and they effortlessly answered every niche question thrown their way.
Beyond the fascinating history, their professionalism is top-tier. The entire experience was incredibly well-organized, respectful, and seamless. They have a rare talent for keeping things engaging and polished while maintaining a genuine, welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you are a local history buff or just looking for a unique, deeply informative night out, Hill City After Dark delivers an unforgettable experience. I cannot recommend them highly enough!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you are looking for an experience that perfectly blends deep historical knowledge with absolute professionalism, look no further than Hill City After Dark.
From start to finish, I was blown away by their exceptional grasp of local history. They don’t just recite dates and names; they bring the past to life with incredible depth, nuance, and captivating storytelling. It’s clear that an immense amount of research goes into what they do. Every location we explored felt rich with context, and they effortlessly answered every niche question thrown their way.
Beyond the fascinating history, their professionalism is top-tier. The entire experience was incredibly well-organized, respectful, and seamless. They have a rare talent for keeping things engaging and polished while maintaining a genuine, welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you are a local history buff or just looking for a unique, deeply informative night out, Hill City After Dark delivers an unforgettable experience. I cannot recommend them highly enough!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tituba’s Ash: Sovereign Spirit & Ancient Roots
The Brand
Tituba’s Ash is an After Dark apothecary dedicated to the transition from day to night. We craft intentional tools for the modern practitioner—those who seek protection, peace, and ancestral connection. Every oil, balm, and potion is handcrafted in small batches, infused with the wisdom of the herbs and the cycles of the moon. We believe in Sovereignty: the power to protect your own peace and govern your own spirit.
The History of Rootwork
Rootwork, also known as Hoodoo or “conjure,” is a rich, traditional African American spiritual practice born from necessity and resilience. It is a system that blends the botanical knowledge of West African ancestors with Indigenous American herbalism and European folklore.
Spirit in the Soil: Rootwork teaches that every root, leaf, and stone holds a specific “virtue” or spirit placed there by the Divine.
The Work: It is a practical magic—using the Earth’s tools to “work” for a
specific outcome: protection, healing, luck, or clearing a path.
Resilience: Historically, these practices were a way for enslaved people to reclaim power, protect their families, and maintain a connection to their heritage when all else was taken away.