The Myrtles Plantation, located in St. Francisville, Louisiana, is a historic antebellum home that has gained a reputation as one of the most haunted places in America. Built in 1796 by General David Bradford, the plantation has a rich and storied history. Today, it operates as a bed and breakfast, allowing guests to experience the charm and beauty of the past while also potentially encountering some of its ghostly inhabitants.
The Haunted History of The Myrtles Plantation
The Myrtles Plantation is known for its reported hauntings and paranormal activity. Guests and staff have reported a wide range of strange occurrences, including footsteps, disembodied voices, and even full-bodied apparitions. These experiences have led many to believe that the plantation is haunted by the spirits of its past residents.
One historical event that may have contributed to the hauntings is the infamous “Myrtles Murders” that took place in 1817. According to legend, three members of the Woodruff family were poisoned by a slave named Chloe, who had been having an affair with the plantation owner. Chloe allegedly poisoned a cake meant for the family but accidentally killed two of the children and Mrs. Woodruff instead. The other slaves on the plantation hanged Chloe in retaliation for her actions. It is believed that these tragic events have left a residual energy that continues to manifest as paranormal activity.
The Ghostly Guests of The Myrtles Plantation
Numerous ghosts and apparitions have been reported at The Myrtles Plantation over the years. One of the most commonly seen spirits is that of a young girl named “The Ghost Girl.” She is often seen playing on the grounds or peering out from windows. Another frequently reported ghost is that of a woman in a green bonnet who has been seen wandering the property. Some believe she may be the spirit of Sara Woodruff, one of the victims of the Myrtles Murders.
Personal experiences of witnesses include hearing footsteps and voices when no one else is around, feeling cold spots, and seeing objects move on their own. Many guests have reported feeling a sense of unease or being watched during their stay. These encounters have left a lasting impression on those who have experienced them.
The Legend of Chloe: The Most Famous Ghost of The Myrtles Plantation
One of the most famous ghosts at The Myrtles Plantation is Chloe, the slave who allegedly poisoned members of the Woodruff family. According to the legend, Chloe was a house slave who had an affair with the plantation owner, Judge Clark Woodruff. In an attempt to keep her position and protect her children, Chloe began eavesdropping on conversations in the main house. When she was caught, Judge Woodruff ordered one of her ears to be cut off as punishment.
In an act of revenge, Chloe baked a cake laced with poison and intended for Judge Woodruff and his family. However, her plan went awry, and instead, two of the children and Mrs. Woodruff died from consuming the poisoned cake. The other slaves on the plantation hanged Chloe in retaliation for her actions.
While this legend has become deeply ingrained in the history of The Myrtles Plantation, there are some doubts about its accuracy. Historical records do not mention any murders or poisonings at the plantation during that time period. However, it is possible that these events were covered up or simply not recorded.
The Haunted Mirror of The Myrtles Plantation
One of the most intriguing aspects of The Myrtles Plantation is its haunted mirror. The plantation is home to an antique mirror that is said to be haunted by the spirits of Sara Woodruff and her children, who were victims of the Myrtles Murders. According to legend, if you look into the mirror, you may see the reflection of Sara and her children standing behind you.
Many guests and staff members have reported seeing strange images or faces in the mirror when there is no one else around. Some have even claimed to see the reflection of a woman in a green bonnet, believed to be Sara Woodruff. These experiences have added to the haunted reputation of The Myrtles Plantation.
The Mysterious Occurrences in The Myrtles Plantation’s Nursery
The nursery at The Myrtles Plantation is another area known for its paranormal activity. Guests and staff have reported hearing the sounds of children laughing and playing, even when there are no children present. Some have seen shadowy figures moving around the room or heard the cries of a baby.
Possible explanations for these occurrences include residual energy from the past or the spirits of children who once lived in the nursery. It is also worth noting that The Myrtles Plantation has a history of being a place where families lived and raised their children, so it is not surprising that these energies may still linger.
The Spooky Stories of The Myrtles Plantation’s Former Slaves
The stories and experiences of former slaves on The Myrtles Plantation add another layer to its haunted reputation. Many slaves endured unimaginable hardships and suffering during their time on the plantation, which has left a lasting impact on the property.
Accounts from former slaves include sightings of ghostly figures, hearing voices or cries in the night, and feeling a sense of unease or oppression. These stories contribute to the overall haunted atmosphere of The Myrtles Plantation and serve as a reminder of the dark history that took place there.
The Urban Legends Surrounding The Myrtles Plantation
As with any haunted location, The Myrtles Plantation has its fair share of urban legends and myths. One popular legend is that the plantation is built on an ancient Native American burial ground, which is said to be the source of its paranormal activity. However, there is no historical evidence to support this claim.
Another myth is that The Myrtles Plantation is home to a voodoo queen who cursed the property. While voodoo is a part of Louisiana’s history and culture, there is no evidence to suggest that a voodoo queen was ever associated with the plantation.
It is important to approach these urban legends with skepticism and rely on historical facts and personal experiences when exploring the haunted history of The Myrtles Plantation.
The Paranormal Investigations of The Myrtles Plantation
Over the years, The Myrtles Plantation has been the subject of numerous paranormal investigations. Ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts have flocked to the plantation in search of evidence of its hauntings.
During these investigations, various forms of evidence have been collected, including EVPs (Electronic Voice Phenomena), photographs, and personal experiences. Some investigators claim to have captured voices or apparitions on their equipment, while others have reported feeling touched or pushed by unseen forces.
While these investigations have provided some intriguing evidence, they have not definitively proven the existence of ghosts at The Myrtles Plantation. However, they have added to the overall mystique and allure of the property.
Spooky Stories to Tell in the Dark: The Myrtles Plantation Edition
No article about The Myrtles Plantation would be complete without a collection of spooky stories and legends associated with the property. These tales are perfect for sharing around a campfire or during a ghost tour.
One story tells of a guest who stayed in one of the plantation’s rooms and woke up in the middle of the night to find a ghostly figure standing at the foot of the bed. The figure slowly approached and then disappeared into thin air, leaving the guest terrified and unable to sleep for the rest of the night.
Another story involves a group of friends who decided to spend the night at The Myrtles Plantation. As they were exploring the grounds, they heard the sound of a piano playing in one of the rooms. When they entered the room, they found an old piano covered in dust and cobwebs, with no one around.
These stories, along with many others, contribute to the haunted reputation of The Myrtles Plantation and provide endless entertainment for those interested in the paranormal.
The Myrtles Plantation is a place steeped in history and haunted by its past. From its reported hauntings and ghostly guests to its famous legends and urban myths, it has captured the imaginations of many. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, The Myrtles Plantation offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those who dare to visit. So, if you’re looking for a spooky adventure or simply want to immerse yourself in history, consider booking a stay at The Myrtles Plantation. Who knows what you might encounter in the dead of night?
