Windsor Ruins

Windsor Ruins, located near Port Gibson, Mississippi, is a haunting and evocative historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Situated amidst the picturesque countryside, these haunting ruins are all that remain of the grand antebellum mansion known as Windsor, which was once one of the largest and most opulent plantation homes in the state.

Built-in the mid-19th century by planter Smith Coffee Daniell II, Windsor Mansion was an architectural marvel, boasting 23 rooms, 29-foot Corinthian columns, and a height of three stories. The mansion's design was inspired by the Greek Revival style, reflecting the grandeur and wealth of the antebellum South. Sadly, the mansion was destroyed by fire in 1890, leaving only the impressive columns and a few other structural remnants standing amidst the surrounding forest.

Today, Windsor Ruins serves as a poignant reminder of the plantation era and the devastating impact of the Civil War on the South. Visitors to the site can explore the ruins and imagine the grandeur of the mansion in its heyday, as well as reflect on the lives of the people who lived and worked there. Interpretive signs provide information about the history of Windsor Mansion and its significance in Mississippi's cultural heritage.

In addition to its historical significance, Windsor Ruins also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular destination for photographers, artists, and nature enthusiasts. The site is particularly beautiful in the spring, when the surrounding forest is in bloom with wildflowers and the ruins are bathed in golden sunlight.

Windsor Ruins is open to the public year-round, and visitors are welcome to explore the site at their own pace. Whether you're interested in history, or architecture, or simply enjoy exploring unique and atmospheric places, a visit to Windsor Ruins offers a memorable and thought-provoking experience.