Is Lake Charles’ Old Courthouse Haunted? Here’s the Story
Lake Charles, Louisiana - If you’ve ever walked past the Calcasieu Parish Courthouse in downtown Lake Charles, you may not know about the strange history connected to the building. The courthouse, located at 1000 Ryan Street, was built in 1912 and has been part of Lake Charles history for more than 100 years. But the building is also connected to one of the most famous criminal cases in Southwest Louisiana.
Before we get started, have you ever heard the name Toni Jo Henry? If not, let me introduce you to her...
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Who Was Toni Jo Henry?
Toni Jo Henry was born Annie Beatrice McQuiston and became known across Louisiana after being convicted of murder in the early 1940s. Henry was convicted in the killing of Joseph P. Calloway, a salesman who picked up Henry and an accomplice while they were traveling through the area. The case received major attention at the time. After several trials and appeals, Henry was sentenced to death.
On November 28, 1942, she was executed at the Calcasieu Parish Courthouse. Henry became the first and, so far, only woman in Louisiana to be executed in the electric chair. The execution took place in the basement of the courthouse.
Is the Courthouse Haunted?
I'm not going to lie, this is where the story gets a little strange. For decades, there have been many stories that Toni Jo Henry's spirit remains inside the courthouse.
Some people who have worked in or visited the building have claimed to hear footsteps, whispers, and other unexplained sounds. Others have reported doors locking or opening on their own, lights flickering, and equipment acting strangely.
There are also stories about people smelling perfume inside the building. One of the more disturbing claims is the smell of burning hair, which some believe is connected to Henry's execution. Other stories claim people have heard screams or felt a sudden cold feeling while walking through certain areas of the courthouse.
There is no scientific evidence proving that the courthouse is haunted, and these stories remain part of local legend.
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Toni Jo Henry Will Forever Be A Part of Lake Charles History
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the story of Toni Jo Henry is a real part of SWLA history. Through the years, her story has attracted national attention, and her execution at the Calcasieu Parish Courthouse made her a unique figure in Louisiana history. Some believe that more than 80 years after her execution, Toni Jo Henry may still be walking the halls of the old courthouse.
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