A Famous Historic Twisted Tree In Kentucky Is A Spooky Sight With An Ominous Legend

Kentucky has many claims to fame, from its impressive national parks, like Mammoth Cave, to Bardstown, the bourbon capital of the world. But as it turns out, Kentucky also has some unique spirits that have nothing to do with distilling. Tucked away on an unassuming street in the heart of Louisville's historic district stands a mysterious, old maple tree. The Witches' Tree is associated with some spooky legends reminiscent of Salem, Massachusetts, a town with deep witchcraft history (and iconic "Hocus Pocus" filming locations). 

This landmark is a century-old fixture in the Derby City that's now a popular gathering place for Louisville locals, lovers of the paranormal, and voodoo practitioners alike. Steeped in legends of witches covens, a curse on Louisville, and tragic revenge, the Witches' Tree is a place where people pay homage to the incomprehensible forces at work. A popular spot on Old Louisville history tours, here's all you need to know about paying a visit to this storied tree.

The knotty, gnarled tree that you'll find today in Old Louisville is not actually the original tree, with the story of how this replacement came to be playing heavily into the site's folklore. The original tree that stood on this spot was rumored to be the local meeting place for a coven of Louisville witches in the 19th century, where they'd routinely execute their rituals and ceremonies. But in 1889, and perhaps with some ulterior motives, planners for the city's annual May Day festival eyed the site and the tree for development, much to the protest of the coven and other magical practitioners. The city eventually chopped down the tree that year ahead of May Day celebrations and used the wood for a maypole, to add insult to injury. 

The witches are said to have cursed the city in retribution for destroying their sacred space. Lo and behold, 11 months later, a tornado tore through Louisville, leveling it. Reportedly, a bolt of lightening struck the stump of the Witches' Tree, indicating that forces of nature were at the witches' beckoning. Believed to be a storm demon summoned by the coven, over 100 people lost their lives, including the planning committee members responsible for taking away their meeting place. Magically, a gnarled and strange looking new tree began growing in the old maple's place. Since the storm, that tree has become a beloved gathering site for locals. 

Located just north of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum, at the corner of Park Avenue and S 6th Street, the Witches' Tree is an interesting sight in itself. But even more curious are the unique baubles hanging from the branches. Playing into the lore of scorned witches, visitors routinely offer small items up to the coven as a show of respect, and to ask for their blessings. It's said that the higher you place your trinket on the tree, the better your luck will be. But be forewarned — do not steal any of the baubles, or risk facing the witches' wrath. 

Visiting the tree is not a complicated trip. Reviews from previous visitors say there's plenty of street parking. However, visitors should note that the tree sits right next to someone's private residence, so be mindful of noise, trash, and, of course, relocating any trinkets. The tree is also a regular stop on history- and paranormal-themed tours, so if you're looking for a more curated experience, operators like Louisville Historic Tours can give some context during your visit. Whether it's a quick stop or you bask in the tree's history for a longer visit, the Witches' Tree is a unique fixture in Louisville's history, contributing to Kentucky's overall eclectic allure.