I’m putting together a list of “must visit”places now that I am living in historic Louisiana. As I make the journey to the various locations I’ll post my own personal experiences. For now I’m beginning by sharing several of the destinations that entice me and call out to be at the top of my list.
The Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville, Louisiana is number one on my list of places I want to explore. This lovely plantation sits on a hill overlooking the city of St. Francisville. But don’t be fooled by its quiet exterior. There are tales of ghost sightings and actual photographs of several.
The Legend of Chloe is fascinating. This photograph has been inspected and dissected only to be found real. There is no trick photography, no photoshop….nothing but the appearance of a slave girl between what once was the General’s store and the butler’s pantry. You can clearly see her standing in the breezeway between the two buildings. If only she could tell us her story!
The history of The Myrtles Plantation dates back to 1796 when “Whiskey Dave”, General David Bradford, fled the United States following the Whiskey Rebellion. He purchased The Myrtles, then a 650 land grant from the Baron de Corondolet. Thus began life on this beautiful property. The general’s son-in-law, Judge Clark Woodruff, sold the plantation in 1834 to Mr. Ruffin Stirling who brought the property up to its current grandeur. Wrought iron porches were added, French chandeliers and marble hearths are just a few of the improvements made by Stirling. The grounds of the plantation are full of flora and fauna visitors now enjoy as they walk along the pathways under centuries old live oak trees laced with Spanish moss.
There are many stories and tales of ghosts that play into the history of this grand property. I cannot wait to visit! This photo of a young girl was taken with a digital camera. Do you see the clear from of the child, dressed in Antebellum clothing? Oh how I would love to see this myself. Who knows! All of the ghosts may appear when I make my journey to The Myrtles! I’ll have a full report when they do. Oh….don’t forget! When you visit this historic plantation save time to wander through the charming town of St. Francisville. Its many shops and eating establishment may entice you to spend a few days in this historic town located right on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River! Here’s to living in Louisiana!
