When seeking haunted places in Mississippi, Natchez is a good place to start. Between being one of the oldest cities in the state and having hundreds of structures on the National Register of Historic Places, it should come as no surprise that Natchez is filled with spooky places. In fact, the city has been dubbed one of the most haunted places in Mississippi, as it’s brimming with purportedly haunted locales and resident ghosts – and a Natchez ghost tour is the perfect way to explore the city’s most notorious spots. Here are seven creepy ghost stories you’ll likely learn about when embarking on ghost tours in Natchez.

1. Monmouth Historic Inn

Built in the early 1800s, Monmouth Plantation has had many occupants over the years, and one of them, General John A. Quitman, has allegedly never left. Now one of the most haunted hotels in the entire South, guests of Monmouth Historic Inn have reported seeing the General dressed in full uniform and inspecting the grounds. While others have reported being woken up by the General checking on them in their rooms. A terrifying wakeup call, to say the least.

2. Dunleith Historic Inn

This National Historic Landmark was constructed in the mid-1800s, and has had some strange occurrences take place over the years. Usually, hearing a musical instrument being played live is a real treat but after staying at the Dunleith Historic Inn, you’ll probably feel differently. Patrons at the inn have reported hearing a harp being played… by a female apparition.

3. Linden Bed and Breakfast

Dating all the way back to the 1700s, it makes sense that Linden Bed and Breakfast has had a lot of paranormal activity, but it doesn’t make it any less creepy! Sightings of a phantom horse-drawn carriage parked in the driveway have been reported as well as what sounds like someone tapping a cane. And, that’s not all. Two apparitions, a man and a woman, are said to haunt the property. The man is often seen in a bedroom, while the woman has been seen jumping from the roof and disappearing into thin air before hitting the ground.

4. King’s Tavern

Please note, King’s Tavern is permanently closed.

As the city’s oldest standing building, King’s Tavern is rich in history – and that includes the paranormal kind. The building is believed to be haunted by several ghosts, including Madeline, the mistress of one of the tavern’s original owners. No one is sure whatever happened to Madeline, however, in the 1930s, three mummified bodies were found in the tavern’s cellar – two male and one female, which was assumed to be Madeline. Several believe the malevolent spirit that haunts the property belongs to Wiley Harpe, an infamous outlaw.

5. Goat Castle

In August of 1932, Jane Surget Merrill, better known as Jennie, was found murdered in her home - a mystery that would unravel one of the strangest tales in the history of Natchez. After purchasing her home, Glenburine, Jennie became somewhat of a recluse, only accepting visits from her cousin and suspected lover, Duncan. The two began to have issues with the neighbors, Richard Dana and Octavia Dockery, who lived in a home known as Glenwood. After Jennie’s body was discovered, police immediately suspected Richard and Octavia. When the police arrived at Glenwood to question the two they were faced with a shocking sight – the mansion was in total disarray.

The ceiling was partially caved in, windows were broken, and the home was infested with fleas, mites, and cockroaches. Chickens, geese, and goats were actually living inside the home, earning it the nickname "Goat Castle." Eventually, Richard and Octavia were cleared of the murder and returned to their home, which they opened for tours. By 1950, the two had passed away but the tale of Goat Castle lived on. Several witnesses have reported seeing an apparition, who is believed to be Jennie seeking vengeance for her murder. Other witnesses claim that Jennie’s ghost can be heard moaning as she darts from tree to tree. The ghost of Octavia has also been spotted wandering the woods near Goat Castle; while others have reported hearing Richard play the piano.

6. Natchez Under-The-Hill (Silver Street)

Once a hangout for local criminals, the Natchez Under-The-Hill area is now a popular tourist spot, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t still evil lurking around. This area of the city is thought to be home to a number of ghosts, including that of well-known outlaw, Joseph Thompson Hare. Since being hanged in 1818, several witnesses have spotted the laughing ghost of Hare, who is often accompanied by the ghost of his unfaithful mistress. Aside from Hare, several other ghosts have been seen in this area of Natchez, including a man in a military uniform, several Spanish soldiers, and outlaw John Murrel.

7. Longwood

Longwood was occupied by the Nutt family until 1970; however, many claim the Nutt’s never left. According to reports, Haller Nutt, his wife Julia, and their children still haunt the home. Witnesses have reported seeing Julia on the staircase, while Haller has been spotted in the garden area. Its haunting reputation isn't the only thing that makes Longwood unique, though. It's also revered as one of the most unique homes in America.

Ready to embark on a Natchez ghost tour? Daily Natchez haunted tours are offered by the company Downtown Karla Brown. During the tour, you’ll get to explore some of Natchez’s most haunted locales, including several antebellum homes. To learn more, visit the Downtown Karla Brown website.

So, have you ever been on a Natchez ghost tour? Know of any other haunted places in Mississippi? Tell us!

Of course, Natchez ghost tours aren't the only reason to visit the riverfront town. There's so much to see and do in Natchez. In fact, it's been dubbed one of the best small towns in America.