Rose Hall Plantation in Montego Bay, Jamaica came into existence in the mid-1700s when Henry Fanning purchased the land where it now sits from John Palmer. Upon Fanning’s demise, his widow, Rosa Kelly, took ownership of “True Friendship” and became the namesake of the location as well. It was originally run as a sugar plantation that enslaved native Africans, before eventually falling into disrepair. In 1831, Annie Palmer (aka “The White Witch”) was believed to have murdered several husbands and lovers. She was known to rule with an iron fist. With such a dark tale of death and cruelty, it’s no wonder the homestead has become one of the most haunted places in the Caribbean. However, controversy exists to state that Annie’s legacy was a farce, and she actually did not have such a grim reputation in truth. One common belief is that the story was nothing but a myth inspired by a 1929 novel written by Henry de Lisser. Despite honorably living in the lap of luxury, Rosa Kelly has also been associated as part of the “White Witch” legend that remains a huge part of local lore on the island. Legendary country musician Johnny Cash, whose family also has ties to the Great House, even wrote a song about this notorious woman from history. It’s widely believed that Annie Palmer was a voodoo practitioner who put a curse on the property. Paranormal activity has been known to include anything from phantom footsteps to apparitions wearing white to flickering lights in the various rooms of the manor. To this very day, Rose Hall is a very popular tourist destination for ghosthunters and other people alike. With all the differing stories and accounts, who’s to stay what basis of proof exists today?
Haunted Rose Hall Plantation
