The Windsor Ruins in Mississippi is one of the most famous abandoned sites in the state. However, it’s not just well-known. It’s also haunted. The spooky occurrences are linked not only to the ruins but to the Native American mounds and the historic graveyard that lies just beyond the famous remnants. We think it’s the creepiest hike in Mississippi.

Despite being located in the tiny town of Port Gibson, the Windsor Ruins is one of the state’s most famed attractions.
Wayne Hsieh/Flickr
It’s received numerous accolades over the years. In addition to being hailed the state’s most underrated attraction, it’s been named the most scenic spot and best hidden gem in Mississippi.
The ruins have even been featured on the big screen.
Antebellum Mansions of the Old South, Contributed Photo
A couple of movies have been filmed at Windsor Ruins, including Raintree County in 1957.
The ruins are all that remain of Windsor, the largest antebellum Greek revival mansion in Mississippi.
Windsor Ruins/Facebook
Absolutely massive, the four-story mansion boasted 17,000 square feet of living space.
Completed in 1861, Windsor survived the Civil War unscathed.
Windsor Ruins/Facebook
Sadly, though, the owner, Smith Coffee Daniell II, died just a few weeks after its completion.
Antebellum Mansions of the Old South, Contributed Photo
The mansion’s demise didn’t come until several decades later, when, in 1890, a party guest dropped a lit cigar, resulting in a fire that consumed the mansion.

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Visitors today can explore the site, which consists of 23 towering columns.
Danecarney/Wikimedia
There’s also an informative marker that provides some background on the ruins.
However, there’s more to Windsor Ruins than meets the eye.
Michael McCarthy/Flickr
Roughly half a mile north of the ruins is the historic Daniell-Freeland Cemetery.
The cemetery dates back centuries, but that’s not its only distinguishing feature.
Michael McCarthy/Flickr
Daniell-Freeland Cemetery is built atop an ancient Native American mound, which, at one time, was common practice.
The mound is part of the Windsor Mounds.
Mississippi Markers, Contributed Photo
Built between 1100 and 1600 A.D., the Windsor Mounds consist of four mounds, with the tallest standing at over 30 feet in height.
Between the tragic fire that destroyed Windsor and the nearby cemetery and Native American mounds, it should come as no surprise that the site is allegedly haunted.
Antebellum Mansions of the Old South, Contributed Photo
A phantom Union soldier is a common sight and is often spotted in what would be the doorway of Windsor Mansion. Visitors have also reported seeing the ghost of Daniell, roaming about the ruins, as well as hearing the sounds of a long-ago party.

Take a look at the efforts being made to preserve this site:

For the most current info on the Windsor Ruins in Mississippi, head on over to the MDAH website. You can also visit the Windsor Ruins Facebook page.

So, did you know about the Windsor Ruins’ haunting reputation? Ever experienced anything strange? If so, what? Know of any other spooky spots in the state? Tell us about them in the comments!

Is this spot not scary enough for you? Then pack up the car and take the ultimate terrifying Mississippi road trip.

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More to Explore

Creepy Places in Mississippi

William Suphan | September 12, 2023

What are the most terrifying places in Mississippi?

The most terrifying places in Mississippi include:

  • Grand Opera House in Meridian. It is rumored that the ghost of a singing lady can be heard here when it is otherwise quiet.
  • King’s Tavern in Natchez. This is one of the oldest buildings in the city and is said to be haunted by a ghost named Madeline whose remains were found in the fireplace.
  • Merrehope in Meridian. This old antebellum house was built in the 1800s and the ghost of a man who killed himself here is said to haunt the place.
  • Lyric Theater in Tupelo. This was one of two buildings left standing after a 1930s tornado and it is rumored that some who perished haunt this theater.

Learn more about the most terrifying places in Mississippi. 

What are the most abandoned places in Mississippi?

The most abandoned places in Mississippi include:

  • Arlington in Natchez. This Federal-style villa was once ornate and beautiful but has now fallen into disrepair.
  • Kuhn Memorial State Hospital in Vicksburg. This hospital which was abandoned in 1989 is now a hotspot for paranormal investigators. 
  • Shubuta Bridge in Shubuta. This rusting bridge was the site of several hangings and is known to locals as The Hanging Bridge.
  • South Mississippi State Hospital in Laurel. This abandoned hospital is a very creepy locale and is rumored to be haunted.

Discover more about the most abandoned places in Mississippi.

What are the most haunted hotels in Mississippi?

The most haunted hotels in Mississippi include:

  • The Mississippi House. This place is locally known as “the little red house where ghosts live” and is a popular place for ghost hunters.
  • Monmouth Historic Inn. This was once a plantation that was built in the 1800s and is said to be haunted by General John A. Quitman.
  • Anchuca Historic Mansion and Inn. This old antebellum house is reportedly haunted by the ghost of the daughter of the original owner.
  • Duff Green Mansion. This has been a hospital and a home for Civil War soldiers and is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of Annie Green.

Find out more about the most haunted hotels in Mississippi.

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Windsor Ruins, Rodney Rd, Port Gibson, MS 39150, USA