Witch's Castle
A Historic and Mysterious Landmark in Portland Nestled in Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., Witch’s Castle is a popular and eerie landmark in Portland, Oregon. Despite its ominous name, this stone structure is actually an abandoned restroom facility built in the 1930s, but its history dates back even further to the 1850s. Today, it is a well-known spot for hikers, history buffs, and paranormal enthusiasts. The History of Witch’s Castle The legend of Witch’s Castle is tied to the story of Danford Balch, an early settler in the area. According to history, Balch and his family lived near Balch Creek, and he hired Mortimer Stump to help clear the land. Stump fell in love with Balch’s daughter, Anna, and when Balch disapproved of their relationship, they eloped. Furious, Balch later murdered Stump and was ultimately hanged in 1859, becoming the first legal execution in Oregon. Years later, in the 1930s, the city of Portland built a stone structure near Balch...