From Voodoo Queens to Phantom Soldiers: Louisiana's Most Haunted Locations

Myrtles PlantationPhoto byJen Terry canva

Louisiana, with its rich history, diverse cultures, and deeply rooted traditions, is often considered one of the most haunted states in the U.S. The blend of French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences, combined with the state's tumultuous history, has created a fertile ground for ghost stories and legends. From the moss-draped oak trees to the misty bayous, the eerie atmosphere of Louisiana is perfect for tales of the supernatural. Here are some of the most haunted places in Louisiana:

The Myrtles Plantation

In St. Francisville, The Myrtles Plantation, often touted as "one of America's most haunted homes," was built in 1796 by General David Bradford. The plantation's most famous ghost is Chloe, a former slave. According to legend, Chloe was caught eavesdropping and had her ear cut off as punishment. In revenge, she poisoned a birthday cake, killing two of the plantation owner's daughters. Chloe was hung, and her ghost is said to roam the grounds. Visitors and staff report seeing apparitions, hearing strange noises, and experiencing unexplained events.

Lalauri Mansion:

In New Orleans, The Lalaurie Mansion is infamous for the gruesome acts committed by its owner, Madame Delphine Lalaurie, in the early 19th century. When a fire broke out in 1834, rescuers discovered tortured slaves in the attic. The horrific discovery led to Madame Lalaurie fleeing the city. The mansion is said to be haunted by the tortured souls of her victims, with reports of screams, moans, and apparitions.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

History and Hauntings: St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is the oldest cemetery in New Orleans, established in 1789. It is the final resting place of many notable figures, including the famous Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau. Legend has it that if you knock three times on her tomb and leave an offering, your wish will be granted. Visitors often report seeing the apparition of Marie Laveau and other ghostly figures wandering the cemetery.

The Hotel Monteleone

In New Orleans, The Hotel Monteleone, a historic landmark in the French Quarter, is renowned for its paranormal activity. Built in 1886, the hotel is said to be haunted by several spirits, including a young boy named Maurice, who died there in the 19th century. Guests have reported seeing Maurice playing in the halls, as well as experiencing cold spots, flickering lights, and doors opening and closing on their own.

Manchac Swamp

In New Orleans, Manchac Swamp is known for its eerie atmosphere and tales of the Rougarou, a werewolf-like creature said to haunt the area. The swamp is also the site of a mass burial ground for victims of a devastating hurricane in 1915. The most famous legend is that of Julia Brown, a Voodoo priestess who is said to have cursed the area. Visitors have reported hearing her singing, seeing ghostly apparitions, and experiencing an overwhelming sense of dread.

Magnolia Plantation

In Natchitoches, Magnolia Plantation, established in 1830, is one of the oldest and best-preserved plantations in the South. It is reputedly haunted by the spirits of former slaves and Civil War soldiers. Paranormal investigators have recorded voices, footsteps, and other unexplained phenomena. One of the most commonly reported sightings is that of a Civil War soldier who appears on the grounds.

The Old State Capitol

In Baton Rouge, the Old State Capitol, a Gothic Revival building constructed in 1847, is said to be haunted by the spirit of Pierre Couvillion, a state legislator who died in the building. Visitors and staff have reported hearing footsteps, seeing apparitions, and experiencing sudden drops in temperature. The building's eerie architecture adds to its haunted reputation.

Shreveport Municipal AuditoriumPhoto byJen Terry canva

Shreveport has a rich history, and with that history are tales of haunted locations. Here are a few that may interest you:

Municipal Auditorium:

This venue is famous not only for its music history but also for its ghostly activity. Many visitors and staff have reported strange occurrences, including sightings of spectral figures and unexplained sounds. It is said to be haunted by the spirit of a Confederate soldier, Elvis, and many others.

Oakland Cemetery:

As one of the oldest cemeteries in Shreveport, Oakland Cemetery is the final resting place for many of the city's early residents. There have been numerous reports of ghostly apparitions and eerie voices, making it a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts.

Davis Homeplace:

This historic home is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of its past residents. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions and hearing unexplained noises within the house.

Ellerbe Road School:

Also known as "the old Peabody School," this abandoned building has a reputation for being haunted. People have reported hearing children's voices, footsteps, and seeing shadowy figures.

Caddo Parish Courthouse:

This historic courthouse is said to be haunted by former judges and prisoners. There have been reports of strange noises, cold spots, and apparitions.

Spring Street Historical Museum:

The building itself dates back to the 1860s and has a history of being haunted. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions and experiencing other paranormal activity.

Logan Mansion:

Built in 1897 by Lafayette Robert Logan, this beautiful place is now a bed and breakfast. Between the sighting of a little girl, shadow people, unexplained noises, cold spots, and apparitions, this place is a must-see for the curious investigator.

Caddo Parish Penal Farm:

Known as the Pea Farm, was once a main prison but is now just an abandoned site filled with the energy of its previous inmates. Shadows, cold spots, creepy noises, and unsettling voices can be heard. Enter with caution.

Louisiana's haunted history is a fascinating tapestry of folklore, legend, and real-life tragedy. The state's rich cultural heritage and tumultuous past have given rise to numerous ghost stories and paranormal activities. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, exploring these haunted locations offers a unique glimpse into the darker side of Louisiana's history. From the haunted plantations to the eerie swamps and historic cemeteries, Louisiana is a state where the past and present blend seamlessly, creating a perfect backdrop for ghostly tales and supernatural encounters.

Hunted LouisianaPhoto byJen Terry canva

Explore Louisiana. “Things to Do: Haunted Places and Ghost Locations around Louisiana.” Www.explorelouisiana.com, 2024, www.explorelouisiana.com/articles/things-do-haunted-places-louisiana. Accessed 25 July 2024.

Louisiana Haunted Houses tours. “Louisiana’s Real Haunted Places.” Www.louisianahauntedhouses.com, 2024, www.louisianahauntedhouses.com/real-haunts/places.aspx. Accessed 25 July 2024.

odysys. “The Most Haunted Spots in Louisiana.” Louisiana Bed and Breakfast Association, 11 Nov. 2019, www.louisianabandb.com/blog/the-most-haunted-spots-in-louisiana/. Accessed 25 July 2024.