The Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville, Louisiana, has long been regarded as one of the most haunted locations in the United States. With ghost tours, spine-chilling stories, and eerie encounters reported by visitors, it’s no wonder the plantation has earned a terrifying reputation. But how much of what we hear about the Myrtles is fact, and how much is clever marketing? Let’s explore the real history, debunk some myths, and examine firsthand paranormal experiences.

The Truth Behind the Chloe Legend

One of the most well-known ghost stories of the Myrtles Plantation is the legend of Chloe, a slave who allegedly poisoned the Woodruff family in a fit of revenge. According to the story, Chloe was caught eavesdropping and had her ear cut off as punishment. Seeking revenge, she poisoned a cake with oleander, ultimately killing the wife and children of Clark Woodruff.

However, historical records paint a very different picture. There is no evidence that a woman named Chloe ever existed at the Myrtles, and in reality, the Woodruff family members died of yellow fever, not poisoning. This tale appears to be a fabrication designed to enhance the plantation’s haunted reputation.

The Murder of William Winter

Unlike the Chloe story, the murder of William Winter is a real event that adds to the Myrtles’ dark history. However, the commonly told version of his death is largely exaggerated.

Many believe that after being shot on the front porch, Winter staggered inside, climbed 17 steps, and collapsed on the staircase, where he took his final breath. In reality, historical records show that he died instantly on the porch. The dramatic staircase death scene? Pure legend.

Ghostly Encounters: Fact or Fiction?

Despite the debunking of some major myths, many visitors and former owners still report paranormal activity at the Myrtles. Some claim to see shadowy figures, hear unexplained noises, or feel an overwhelming sense of unease. A few chilling firsthand accounts include:

  • A woman in a green turban: Multiple visitors report seeing an apparition of a woman wearing a green headpiece, believed to be the inspiration for the Chloe legend.
  • Unexplained sickness: Several guests have described feeling ill after visiting, with symptoms disappearing after leaving the plantation.
  • Shaking windows: One school trip reportedly experienced every windowpane rattling violently, as if the house itself was shaking.

While skeptics argue that these occurrences are nothing more than the power of suggestion, others firmly believe that the Myrtles Plantation holds supernatural energy.

Marketing the Haunted Legacy

It’s no secret that the Myrtles Plantation leans into its haunted reputation for tourism. Former owners have admitted to embellishing stories to attract visitors, and paranormal investigators continue to spotlight the location. This raises the question—are people experiencing real hauntings, or are they just expecting to because of the ghost stories?

Final Thoughts

The Myrtles Plantation is a fascinating blend of history, legend, and eerie experiences. While some of its most famous ghost stories are debunked, reports of supernatural activity continue to pour in. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, one thing is certain—the Myrtles Plantation has an energy that keeps people talking.

Would you dare to spend the night in one of America’s most infamous haunted houses?