I have a few references that I think would make a very creepy and functional website.
I think for the overall Look and feel we should go with a visual element style like this:

http://www.mastersofhorror.net/

That using papers or pictures of some sort, with a freaky hallway in the backround and some neat sound effects would fit the mood pretty well.

I think this type of text would fit the period. and make it feel more news...ey
http://www.theoldstate.com/blog/

Put it all together and I think we would get a pretty awesome design.