Northwest Louisiana Haunted Tales: The Hanging Tree

A picture perfect view near Cross Lake, the Hanging Tree is anything but a pretty picture.

Out near Cross Lake stands The Hanging Tree. The name falls short in regards to what actually happened there.

The tree was used by a madman slave driver. Those who disobeyed him were taken to the tree to die. Once suspended in the air however, the deranged man would torture the unfortunate souls before setting them on fire.

At night it is said you can see a low glow coming from the tree, the smell of burning flesh in the air. Many have heard those tortured beings crying out in the dark for someone to save them. Some can even hear a faint whimpering of those who witnessed the hangings.

Legend has it if you cut into the tree, you’ll find the core is blood red… Stained crimson by the sheer amount of blood shed on its roots.