Louisiana, a state steeped in history, culture, and intrigue, boasts some of the most haunted locales worldwide. From plantations to prisons, and cemeteries to bars, numerous sites in Louisiana harbor tales of ghosts, spirits, and paranormal phenomena. In this blog, we delve into one of the most chilling spots in Louisiana – the Myrtles Plantation.
The Myrtles Plantation: A Historical Overview
Situated in St. Francisville, approximately 30 miles north of Baton Rouge, the Myrtles Plantation was constructed in 1796 by General David Bradford. Having sought refuge in Louisiana after involvement in the Whiskey Rebellion, Bradford initially named the plantation Laurel Grove.
A flourishing cotton plantation with numerous slaves, the property witnessed numerous tragedies over the years, including murders, suicides, fires, and diseases. Owners and residents such as Clark Woodruff, William Winter, Ruffin Gray Stirling, Sarah Stirling, and Marjorie Munson have each contributed to the haunting history of the Myrtles.
Haunting Tales of the Myrtles Plantation
The Myrtles Plantation is said to be inhabited by at least 12 ghosts, each with its own haunting story. Among them, Chloe, a slave girl who worked for Clark Woodruff, stands out. Legend has it that Chloe, caught eavesdropping, had her ear cut off as punishment. Seeking revenge, she poisoned Woodruff’s family, leading to her hanging by fellow slaves. Chloe’s ghost, often seen in a green turban, roams the plantation.
Another notable specter is William Winter, shot on the plantation porch in 1871. His ghost reportedly reenacts his death by ascending the stairs and collapsing on the 17th step. Other ghosts include the children of Clark Woodruff, victims of yellow fever; Ruffin Gray Stirling, who succumbed to consumption; Sarah Stirling, who died of pneumonia; Marjorie Munson, who died of old age; and a young Native American woman buried near a pond on the property. Eerie occurrences, such as ghostly piano playing, a mirror holding souls, and an indelible bloodstain, add to the haunting atmosphere.
Exploring the Myrtles Plantation
The Myrtles Plantation welcomes visitors for tours, events, and overnight stays. Guided tours, available daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., provide insights into the plantation’s history and hauntings. Guests can opt for overnight stays in antique-furnished rooms or cottages. The property also features a restaurant, gift shop, and enchanting gardens.
Thrill-seekers can partake in mystery tours on Friday and Saturday nights from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Equipped with flashlights and ghost detectors, participants explore the plantation, hearing chilling stories of supernatural encounters. Seances, tarot readings, and psychic medium sessions offer additional avenues to engage with the paranormal.
The Myrtles Plantation, an amalgamation of history and horror, beckons the brave to witness the convergence of past and present, where the living and the dead coexist. Experience for yourself why it’s renowned as one of the scariest places in America.