Historic Architecture & Civil War History at Longwood in Natchez
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, with minimal walking required inside the house and around the grounds.
Overview
Discover the story behind Longwood, the largest octagonal home in America, and its role in Civil War history. Tours reveal rich architecture, original furnishings, and the influence of the era.
Longwood 1860, 1861
Year Round Tours
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About This Adventure
Explore Longwood, America's largest octagonal home, a stunning mid-nineteenth century architectural marvel. Discover its rich history, original furnishings, and the artisans' tools left behind when construction halted due to the Civil War. Enjoy the beautifully maintained grounds of this National Historic Landmark on a captivating guided tour.
The largest octagonal home remaining in America, Longwood is a superb example of the mid-nineteenth century "villa in the oriental style". Construction halted when the Civil War began, causing artisans to leave behind their tools, paint brushes, and lovely Longwood, never to be brought to completion.
Duration
45 - 60 minutes Tours begin on the TOP of each hour. Tours from 9 a.m. with last tour at 3 p.m.
Rates
Adults (Ages 18+): $25 Youth (Ages 13-17): $20 Children (Ages 12 and under): FREE
About
Designed for Haller and Julia Nutt, Longwood stands five stories high and retains many original furnishings. When construction halted, the Nutt family moved into the nine-room ground floor. A gift to the Pilgrimage Garden Club in 1970 from the McAdams Foundation of Austin, Texas, the finial atop the dome was reconstructed in 1993.
- Grandest octagonal house in America
- Original furnishings belonging to the Nutt family throughout the home
- Original tools left behind still remain in the home
- Beautiful walking grounds
- National Historic Landmark
- Owned and beautifully maintained by the Pilgrimage Garden Club
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable shoes
The grounds and interior tours involve walking, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
Arrive early
Beat the crowds and have ample time to enjoy the grounds and guided tour.
Bring sun protection
The open grounds and tour may expose you to the sun, so hats and sunscreen are advised.
Stay hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer weather, to stay comfortable during your visit.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Birds, such as sparrows and cardinals
- Squirrels and chipmunks
History
Longwood was intended to be a grandeur plantation home, but construction was abandoned during the Civil War, leaving an unfinished masterpiece.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve Longwood's structure and grounds, emphasizing sustainable tourism and historical integrity.
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Adventure Hotspots in Natchez
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes needed for walking around the estate and grounds.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Protect yourself from the sun during outdoor parts of the visit.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated while touring open grounds.
Camera or smartphone
Capture the historic architecture and scenic grounds.