The Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville, Louisiana is known for its rich history and, some say, its ghostly residents. Originally built in 1796 by General David Bradford, the property has changed hands several times over the years, each owner adding their own story to the plantation’s history. In this blog post, we will explore the history of the Myrtles Plantation and the haunted stories that surround it.
Ownership of the Myrtles Plantation
General David Bradford built the Myrtles Plantation in 1796, but he only lived there for a few years before fleeing to Louisiana to escape arrest for his role in the Whiskey Rebellion. The property was then sold to Ruffin Gray, who died in 1817, leaving the plantation to his wife Mary Catherine Cobb and their three children.
After Mary Catherine’s death in 1834, the plantation was sold several times before being purchased by Judge Clarke Woodruff in 1857. Woodruff and his wife Sara added several additions to the house, including a new wing and a second-story balcony. They also owned several slaves, one of whom would become infamous for her role in the plantation’s history.
The Story of Chloe
Chloe was a slave owned by the Woodruff family who was said to have been mistreated by Judge Woodruff. In an effort to get back at him, she supposedly poisoned his wife and two of their children with oleander leaves. Chloe was then hanged by the other slaves on the plantation either to punish or or to keep from being punished themselves by the Woodruffs for helping her.
Some versions of the story say that Chloe was not trying to kill the family, but rather make them sick so that she could nurse them back to health and regain favor with the family. Regardless of her intentions, Chloe’s story has become one of the most famous ghost stories associated with the Myrtles Plantation.
Ghost Sightings
In addition to the story of Chloe, there have been numerous other ghost sightings reported at the Myrtles Plantation. Some guests have reported seeing a ghostly figure of a woman on the balcony, while others claim to have seen ghostly children playing in the yard. There have also been reports of unexplained footsteps and doors opening and closing on their own.
Feelings on the Property
Visitors to the Myrtles Plantation often report feeling a sense of unease or being watched, particularly in the area where Chloe’s story is centered. Some have reported feeling a sense of sadness or despair, while others have reported feeling as if they are being welcomed into the home by the ghostly residents.
Bed and Breakfast
Today, the Myrtles Plantation is a popular bed and breakfast, with guests staying in one of the 11 rooms available in the main house or one of the nearby cottages. The property also offers guided tours for those interested in learning more about the history and hauntings of the plantation. The Myrtles Plantation is located in St. Francisville, Louisiana, approximately 26 miles from Baton Rouge, which makes it a great stop on your haunted vacation in Louisiana for the Fifolet Halloween Festival.
The Myrtles Plantation is a fascinating historical site with a rich and haunting past. From the story of Chloe to the numerous ghost sightings reported on the property, the Myrtles is a place that has captured the imagination of visitors for generations. Whether you are a history buff or a paranormal enthusiast, a visit to the Myrtles Plantation is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
