As if the “backrooms” aren’t enticing enough on their own, did you know that this viral internet sensation’s story actually began in Oshkosh? The “backrooms” are inspired by a photo encapsulating an empty room with fluorescent lighting, dingy carpets, and yellow off-setting walls. The entire concept of the backrooms could be described as a creepy space that feels familiar but unsettling, or similar to the ideas surrounding “simulation” conspiracy theories.
MY FRIEND FOUND THE BACKROOMS LOCATION ITS IN WISCONSIN AND THESE PICS ARE FROM 2003 pic.twitter.com/2tqrRf9XNm
— the goofball (@tjxz_z) May 29, 2024
As it turns out, these photos were taken in downtown Oshkosh’s “HobbyTown”. Since these photos were taken in 2003, the space has been turned into a racetrack for remote-controlled cars. Perhaps more common amongst the younger and more “chronically online” populations, the story of the backrooms grew into a widely known internet meme. In fact, the HobbyTown photos inspired Kane Parson’s short film, “The Backrooms”.
This film inspired other films, videogames, “creepypasta” stories, and further online storytelling. I have always known that Oshkosh is a special town, but this really solidifies that idea.
“Focus Fox Valley” host Hayley Tenpas had Pat Tracey from Discover Oshkosh on her show on Tuesday, June 4th, and they had a conversation about the backrooms towards the end of her show.
