Halloween comes but once a year, but in a certain Louisville neighborhood, it’s *always* spooky season. While Louisville is known for its charming Victorian homes and legendary attractions, there is a certain tree that has long been haunting residents at the corner of Sixth Street and Park Avenue. Known as the Witches’ Tree, this gnarly monolith looks downright demonic — a Kentucky landmark straight out of a Tim Burton nightmare.

In the heart of Old Louisville, there is a tree that commands -- née, demands -- attention.
Sarah Hartman/Google Local
This is the Witches' Tree, and it's every bit as cursed as its name suggests.
Robin Proffitt/Google Local
As the story goes, in 1889 local witches warned the city that they would pay dearly if they cut down this sprawling tree for the annual May Day celebration.
The Witches' Tree/Google Local
The committee did not heed their warning and chopped it down anyway.
Rebecca Siegel/Flickr

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As you can imagine, this displeased the witches greatly, igniting a fury that couldn't be contained.
RUSSELL HENNINGER SR/Google Local
The witches became so angry, in fact, that they put a curse on the city. And 11 months later, Louisville suffered one of the most severe storms in history, which many attributed to the witches' curse.
The Witches' Tree/Google Local
During the storm, lightning struck the stump of the old tree and a new tree began growing in its place. Not a healthy, happy tree, mind you, but the gnarly, unsightly, otherworldly monstrosity that stands there now.
The Witches' Tree/Google Local
Today, people bring their own items to hang on the tree; totems to appease this cursed creature.
The Witches' Tree/Google Local
Some even hang witches' boots on the tree's bumps and knobs... perhaps obtained by witches that have passed on, as a sacrifice of sorts?
Helena Boulding/Google Local
It's impossible to say for sure; all we know is that we definitely wouldn't want to double cross those witches.

Have you visited this monstrous monolith before? Did you know about the Kentucky Witches’ Tree?

Looking for more otherworldly attractions in the Bluegrass State? This flying saucer in Kentucky has long captured the imaginations of curious onlookers!

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The Witches' Tree, Park Ave &, S 6th St, Louisville, KY 40208, USA