Louisiana’s most haunted plantation and the history behind it

They say not all who die at Myrtles Plantation choose to leave. Located in St. Francisville, Louisiana, this 18th-century estate is shrouded in mystery, tragedy, and ghost stories that refuse to fade. Known as one of the most haunted homes in America, it’s not just the eerie legends that lure visitors, but also the rich and complicated history buried beneath the Spanish moss.

From tales of vengeful spirits to unexplained footsteps and phantom children, this Southern mansion has witnessed more than its fair share of darkness. And whether you believe in ghosts or not, there’s no denying that this place has a presence.

Ready to take a peek behind the curtains of Louisiana’s most chilling legend? Let’s get into it.

Where is Myrtles Plantation, and what’s it like today?

Myrtles Plantation sits on a quiet street in St. Francisville, about 30 miles north of Baton Rouge.

Originally built in 1796, the antebellum home is now a popular bed-and-breakfast and one of the most iconic ghost-hunting destinations in the U.S.

Today, the grounds are beautifully maintained, with towering oak trees and creeping ivy setting a picture-perfect Southern backdrop. But don’t let the charm fool you; many guests report strange noises, sudden cold spots, and other ghostly encounters.

Who built the Myrtles Plantation?

The plantation was built by General David Bradford, a lawyer who fled Pennsylvania after leading the Whiskey Rebellion. He named the estate “Laurel Grove” and settled there with his family.

Bradford lived out his final years peacefully, but the real turbulence began after his death, when the property passed on to his daughter and son-in-law. That’s when the string of misfortunes began.

What tragedies have taken place on the property?

Several deaths are believed to have occurred inside the home, and some were especially brutal.

One of the most repeated stories is that of Sara Woodruff, the wife of Clark Woodruff (Bradford’s son-in-law), and two of their children who supposedly died of yellow fever in the home.

However, historical records suggest only one child died, while Sara and her other children may have passed away elsewhere. That hasn’t stopped the stories from spreading, or visitors from claiming to see their spirits roaming the halls.

Who is Chloe, and why is she so infamous?

Chloe is the most well-known ghost tied to the Myrtles Plantation.

According to legend, she was an enslaved woman owned by the Woodruff family who wore a green turban to cover a severed ear after being caught eavesdropping.

To get back in favor, she allegedly baked a poisoned cake that killed two children and their mother. As punishment, she was hanged by other enslaved people and tossed into the Mississippi.

Her spirit, some say, never left.

Is the Chloe story even true?

There’s no historical proof that Chloe ever existed, or that those deaths happened as described.

Many historians believe the tale was likely invented to add intrigue, or simply morphed over time from partial truths.

Still, guests swear they’ve seen a woman in a green turban wandering the house. The plantation even has a famous photo from 1992 that many believe shows Chloe standing between two buildings.

What are some of the most famous ghost sightings?

Reports range from ghostly children playing on the porch to a grand piano that plays on its own.

One of the eeriest sightings involves the mirror in the front hall. It’s said to hold the trapped souls of Sara Woodruff and her children, who appear in the reflection.

Another common story is that of William Winter, who was shot on the front porch in 1871 and staggered into the house, dying on the 17th step of the staircase. Visitors have reported hearing footsteps stop right at that step.

Has Myrtles Plantation been investigated by professionals?

Yes, multiple paranormal teams have visited the property over the years.

It’s been featured on shows like Ghost Hunters, Unsolved Mysteries, and Most Terrifying Places in America.

Some investigators captured EVPs (electronic voice phenomena), while others claimed physical sensations like dizziness or nausea while walking through specific rooms. Even skeptics have admitted to feeling uneasy while on the grounds.

What’s the guest experience like today?

Guests can stay overnight in the main house or one of the cottages on the property.

Many people visit just for the ghost tours, which run during the day and at night, though the evening tours tend to feel a little more intense.

The inn itself leans into its spooky reputation, with ghost logs in each room where visitors can jot down anything strange they encounter. Some write about unexplained knocks; others about dreams too vivid to be a coincidence.

Is it safe to stay overnight?

Absolutely. The property is maintained as a comfortable B&B with modern amenities.

Guests often come seeking a thrill but leave having enjoyed the peaceful setting, despite the occasional supernatural experience.

That said, not everyone makes it through the night. Some guests have checked out early after unsettling experiences, including the feeling of being watched or waking up to whispers.

Is it just a tourist trap?

While the plantation capitalizes on its haunted reputation, there’s still real history behind it.

From its early roots in post-rebellion America to its architectural beauty and tragic folklore, Myrtles Plantation is more than just a spooky sleepover.

The blend of documented events, local legends, and personal stories from guests makes it a unique piece of Louisiana’s cultural landscape. It’s a living, breathing example of how folklore and history collide in the South.

What should you know before visiting?

Tours often fill up fast, especially during the Halloween season.

It’s smart to book your tickets and room in advance if you’re planning a visit. Also, while kids are allowed, younger children may find the ghost stories overwhelming.

Don’t forget to explore the grounds during daylight, too. The property’s beauty really shines in the early morning light, and the surrounding town of St. Francisville offers charming shops, historic churches, and excellent Southern food.

What makes this plantation different from others?

Myrtles Plantation doesn’t shy away from its dark past; it leans into it.

The blending of haunted tales with verifiable history makes it stand out from the many plantation tours in the South.

It’s also one of the few where overnight stays are part of the attraction, not just a daytime visit. And while ghost stories are common across old Southern estates, few places have drawn as many curious visitors, or left them so spooked.

Is it worth the trip?

If you’re into spooky tales, historic charm, or just want a unique getaway, then yes, 100%.

Myrtles Plantation offers a rare experience that’s equal parts eerie and educational.

Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, walking through a place steeped in such deep folklore is unforgettable. You don’t have to believe in the paranormal to feel the chill of history brushing past you.

TL;DR

• Myrtles Plantation is located in St. Francisville, Louisiana, and is known as one of the most haunted houses in America.
• The estate dates back to 1796 and has a long history of tragic deaths and eerie legends.
• Stories like that of Chloe, an enslaved woman ghost, fuel the property’s spooky reputation.
• Guests often report ghost sightings, strange noises, and paranormal activity during their stay.
• It’s open for overnight stays and ghost tours, making it a popular destination for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike.

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This article was made with AI assistance and human editing.