Friday, January 25, 2008

Natchez, Mississippi

The terminus of the Natchez Trace (ie. MP 0) is the city of Natchez. Oh, by the way, the name Natchez is pronounced like ‘matches’, only beginning with ‘n’. Natchez was one city that seems to have escaped the ravages of the Civil War, and is known for its many antebellum mansions that date back to pre-Civil War days.
We visited the home of William Johnson. Known as the ‘barber of Natchez’, William Johnson was a freed slave who became quite wealthy by owning and operating several barber shops. Historically, he handed down a 'treasure' by keeping excellent diaries, explaining different aspects of life of his day.

















We also visited the mansion named Melrose. It was built 20 years before the Civil War, and still has most of its original furniture and floor-coverings. The interior is exquisite. We were amazed at the high ceilings – 14 ½ feet. It’s a must-see for anyone in southern Mississippi.





















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