Longwood

Longwood, located in Natchez, Mississippi, is a unique and iconic antebellum mansion that stands as a testament to the grandeur and tragedy of the pre-Civil War South. Designed by architect Samuel Sloan and built for cotton planter Haller Nutt, Longwood is one of the largest octagonal houses in the United States and is renowned for its distinctive Moorish Revival architectural style.

Construction of Longwood began in 1860 but was abruptly halted with the outbreak of the Civil War, leaving the mansion only partially completed. The exterior of Longwood is finished with elaborate onion-shaped domes, intricate brickwork, and ornate cast-iron balconies, evoking the exoticism of the Middle East. However, the interior of the mansion remains unfinished, with only the basement level completed and furnished.

Longwood's basement level, which is open to the public for guided tours, features several rooms that provide insights into the daily life of the Nutt family and their enslaved workers. Visitors can explore the kitchen, dining room, and other spaces, which are furnished with period-appropriate antiques and artifacts, giving a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the antebellum South.

Longwood's upper floors, however, remain in a state of arrested decay, with exposed brick walls, bare floors, and unfinished rooms that serve as a haunting reminder of the mansion's tragic history. Despite its incomplete state, Longwood's grandeur and architectural splendor continue to captivate visitors, making it one of Mississippi's most iconic and enigmatic historic sites.

Today, Longwood is owned and operated by the Pilgrimage Garden Club and is open to the public for guided tours. Visitors can learn about the history of the mansion, its construction, and its significance in the context of the Civil War and Southern history. Longwood's lush gardens, landscaped grounds, and towering magnolia trees provide a picturesque backdrop for visitors to explore and enjoy.

A visit to Longwood offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the beauty and tragedy of the antebellum South. Whether you're interested in history, and architecture, or simply enjoy exploring historic homes and gardens, Longwood is sure to leave a lasting impression.