Shreveport’s Highland neighborhood is known for its architecture, its character, and its history. On the 400 block of Olive Street, however, sits a home that stands out at first glance. In the front yard of the home known as “Olive Street Oddities,” one sees a cemetery, a c
lown’s face, and what appears to be a crashed UFO.
Doug Cobb and his wife Christina, along with their friend Matt Ellis, have been creating haunted houses for over 20 years. Cobb’s passion for the thrill of putting on a haunted house and his love for Halloween are both readily apparent in initial conversation.
“I got my start doing garage haunts,” said Cobb. “I guess I was born into it; we did a hayride when I was a three and a half or four.” Added Ellis, Cobb’s friend and long-time collaborator, “He’s the creator. I’m the actor.”
Walking around the home, the attention to detail is impressive. The quality of the props and figures around the yard would not look out of place in a professional haunted house. Cobb took time to point out what goes into the pieces, most of which are made from household items that have been refashioned to take on a far more sinister purpose. Cobb has repurposed Christmas yard fixtures as believable aliens. Plastic jugs make excellent heads. “It’s pretty awesome what you can do with pool noodles!” The path for the tour itself is made from pallets gathered from hardware stores. The walls are created with blank particleboards borrowed from an acquaintance at Party Central.
Observed from the street, Olive Street Oddities and the curiosities in the yard are noticeable to any passerby. When asked how the neighbors felt about having a haunted house next door, Cobb said, “The neighbors love me. Or they’re afraid of me.” Ellis chimed in, “Either way, they don’t give him any trouble!”
When asked what their favorite thing about Halloween is, without a second thought, Cobb said, “Everything. I get to be who I really am on Halloween.” Ellis agreed, saying, “You get to be out there. Open.” Taking note of the day’s cooler weather, Ellis then mentioned that when the air is starting to cool, it gets him excited knowing Halloween is right around the corner. “It’s good haunt weather.”
At this point, Cobb and Ellis got into costume as two very sinister clowns, Skully and Stitches. Standing in front the house for pictures, it was enjoyable observing the glances at the two evil-looking figures from pedestrians and a couple passing on a motorcycle.
Olive Street Oddities will open at nightfall on Halloween night and run until approximately midnight. As it stands, there are no plans to open further, but any changes will be posted on the gate outside the home. There’s no charge, but tips and donations are very much appreciated. All ages are welcome, but the haunt may be too scary for young children, so parents are asked to use discretion.