For the dedicated paranormal investigator, the Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville is great for studying residual imprints and active, intelligent hauntings. This site is uniquely situated on what many researchers identify as a significant geological or ley line intersection, which acts as a natural battery for the diverse array of phenomena reported across the grounds. From a technical perspective, the plantation provides a complex environment for capturing electronic voice phenomena and significant electromagnetic field fluctuations, often localized in areas like the central hallway and the infamous “haunted mirror.”
The core focus for many investigations centers on the legendary figure of Chloe, whose presence is often associated with distinct thermal drops and photographic anomalies. The recurring reports of phantom footsteps and the sounds of children playing.
The plantation house is rumored to be on top of an ancient Tunica Indian burial ground. It is currently a bed and breakfast, and offers historical and mystery tours. The plantation is supposedly the home of at least 12 ghosts. It is often reported that 10 murders occurred in the house, but historical records only indicate the murder of William Winter. William Drew Winter is also a very popular character in the plantation. He was an attorney who lived in the plantation from 1865 until 1871. He was shot by a stranger. After being shot, he staggered inside the house and died trying to climb the stairs. He died on the 17th step of the stairs. Until today, visitors, as well as employees in the hotel, still hear his dying footsteps.
In 2002, Unsolved Mysteries filmed a segment about the alleged hauntings at the plantation. The production crew experienced technical difficulties during the production of the segment. The Myrtles was also featured on a 2005 episode of Ghost Hunters. The TV series Ghost Adventures also filmed an episode there. The television series Most Terrifying Places in America profiled the plantation.
Resources
Image Bogdan Oporowski via Wikimedia Commons