From sprawling estates to homes of the past to teeny tiny houses, Mississippi is filled with interesting architecture; here are 11 perfect examples.
1. John Ford Home, Sandy Hook
If at first glance you thought this home appeared outdated, you’d be correct. The historic home once belonged to Reverend John Ford, and dates back to the early-1800s. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, the home is significant for a number of reasons, one of which is that the home is a prime example of elevated frontier-style architecture, which was extremely popular in Mississippi many years ago.
2. Birthplace of Elvis Presley, Tupelo
Tennessee may have Graceland but the King’s journey started in this tiny home in Tupelo. The home, which was built by Elvis’ father for $180, is still in its initial location and has been restored to its original condition, complete with period furniture.
3. Stanton Hall, Natchez
Between the large columns, cast iron balconies, and intricate details, this impressive Greek Revival-style mansion practically demands attention, which means not much has changed since the home was first built in 1857. The massive home took up an entire city block, cost well over $83,000 before it was furnished, and included a lot of imported luxuries, such as marble mantel pieces from New York, gasoliers from Philadelphia, and mirrors from France. As of today, the home is owned by Pilgrimage Garden Club and is available for touring.
4. Vale Home, near Hattiesburg
In accordance with the tiny house trend that has been on the rise, this structure is located in the Dixie community near Hattiesburg, and its appearance is interesting to say the least.
5. Tallahatchie Flats, Greenwood
Located on the banks of the Tallahatchie River, you’ll find six shacks, also known as "tenant houses," which have all been obtained from local plantations. These dwellings were at one time extremely popular in the Delta region and exactly the types of homes in which many of the state’s blues legends resided. In addition to overnight accommodations, guests of the Tallahatchie Flats can take part in interpretive tours of the property.
6. B.F. Liddon House, Corinth
In 1908, with the completion of his expansive home, Corinth banker and theater enthusiast Benjamin Franklin Liddon was able to add "accomplished architect" to his list of accolades. The eccentric businessman merged together several different architectural styles when constructing Liddon Castle, leading to a home considered the "most imposing and visually interesting in northeast Mississippi." The interior of the home was equally as elaborate with mosaic tile floors, 20’ beamed ceilings, and leaded glass windows.
7. Mount Helena, between Rolling Fork and Anguilla
Sitting high atop a ceremonial Indian mound in the Mississippi Delta, this stunning Colonial Revival-style home is hard to miss. Originally constructed in 1896, Mont Helena was intended to be the "retirement home" for George Harris and Helen Johnstone Harris. Today, the gorgeous mansion is open for touring.
8. Historic Cabin at Tishomingo State Park, Tishomingo
Located in Tishomingo State Park, this quaint cabin dates back to the 1800s, and definitely attributed to the park being named one of the "Top 25 Educational and Historic Facilities" by Reserve America.
9. Heathman Plantation, Indianola
Originally known as Dogwood Ridge Plantation, this estate didn’t receive its current name until 1871, when it was purchased by J. M. Heathman and his wife. Still standing, the plantation’s commissary building, which was used to house supplies during slavery and then served as somewhat of a general store for sharecroppers, provides an interesting look into the past.
10. Former Doctor’s Office, Jacinto
This building once served as the office of Dr. Achilles Lucian Moorman, and was actually located in Bexar, Alabama at the time. Considered "folk architecture," the office is believed to have been built around 1830. Eventually, the charming building was moved to Alcorn County, where it remains to this day.
11. W.C. Gryder House, Ocean Springs
Built in 1960, this impressive home was designed by famed architect Bruce Goff. A child prodigy, Goff began practicing architecture when he was only 12 years old. The fact that the home is one of the only two structures Goff has ever designed in Mississippi further adds to its significance.
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