Now a popular restaurant, King’s Tavern is one of the oldest buildings in Natchez. After being constructed in the late 1700s, the building served as a tavern, inn, and the city’s first post office. Today, both locals and tourists head to the eatery for wood fired flat breads and hand crafted cocktails, many of whom are completely unaware of the building’s haunting history.
Having been constructed so long ago, King’s Tavern is loaded with history. Part of that history came to light in the 1930s, when the skeletal remains of three bodies – two men and one woman – were found hidden in the wall behind the fireplace.
A jeweled dagger was also found with the remains, which was assumed to be the murder weapon. As for the remains, the men were never identified; however, the woman was believed to be Madeline, the mistress of the tavern’s original owner, Richard King.
According to local legend, Madeline (pictured) disappeared sometime after Mrs. King found out about the affair. Many believe that Mrs. King killed Madeline and hid the body in the tavern’s walls.
Several strange happenings have taken place in the upstairs area of the tavern, which used to be the inn. Witnesses have reported seeing a reflection suddenly appear in a mirror as well as feeling warm spots a few inches above the bed, as if someone had just been lying in it.
The notorious outlaw, Wiley Harpe, is also believed to haunt the tavern, along with one of his victims. According to legend, a mother with a fussy infant was staying at the tavern’s inn. Harpe, annoyed with the incessant crying, grabbed the baby from the mother’s arms and threw the child to the ground, killing him instantly.
Several witnesses have reported hearing a child crying, which appeared to be coming from the upstairs area of the tavern; however, it was always at times when no one was upstairs. Some believe that Harpe’s spirit is still lingering at the tavern as well. The EVP below is assumed to be the outlaw himself.
Ready for some great food and drinks, along with some possible paranormal activity? Visit King’s Tavern at 613 Jefferson Street in Natchez on Thursdays – Sundays. Click here for more information, including operating hours and direction.
Though Daniella was born in New York and has lived in a couple of other states, Mississippi has been her home for the past 25 years. After graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Daniella began to hone her writing skills through various internships, working for The Royal Obsession and Anatomie clothing. In the years since, she’s had the privilege of having her articles appear in several publications, such as Parents & Kids Magazine and Girl Meets Strong. She’s also had the honor of interviewing actress Sela Ward for The Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience.
