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The Official 2024 Visitor Guide

JustVisiting Or Your New Home? We’re Tankful You Chose Us!<br />

We ♥Natchoosians!<br />

We lovingly refer to our visitors and new neighbors as “Natchoosians!” Set on the highest bluff of the Mighty Mississippi River, “The Little<br />

Easy’s” creative energy, historic charm, and nightly sunsets easily capture hearts. Today, we embrace the uniquely storied diversity of our past<br />

and present, and march toward a bright future. New Businesses and Jobs. Hot Real Estate. Investment in Parks, Healthcare, and Infrastructure.<br />

Workforce Training. New Cruise Line Docks. A blooming Movie Industry. Year-round Festivals. A Social Calendar that never sleeps.<br />

And a welcome that feels like coming home!<br />

On the Mississippi!<br />

“The 15 Best Small Towns to Visit” - Smithsonian Magazine • “The South’s Best Small Towns” - Southern Living • “10 Best Christmas Towns in America” - Fox News<br />

Dan M.Gibson<br />

Mayor of Natchez “25 Best Weekend Getaways in the South” - Travel + Leisure • “50 Underrated U.S. Cities for Your Must-Visit List” - MSN • “10 Best Historic Small Towns” - USA Today<br />

2 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ<br />

Make the<br />

SMART MOVE!<br />

National Public Radio • 2022

2024 VISIT NATCHEZ 3

4 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

VisitNatchez.org 5

Welcome to Natchez!<br />

Whether you are looking for unique<br />

outdoor recreation, one-of-a-kind live<br />

music and arts, amazing historic homes<br />

or rich cultural heritage, you will find<br />

incomparable experiences here in<br />

Natchez. With more than 300 years of<br />

history, our city has stories to tell that are<br />

unmatched anywhere in the world.<br />

The more time you spend in our city, the<br />

more amazing stories and characters you<br />

will uncover. Add in breathtaking views of<br />

the Mississippi River, distinctive restaurants<br />

and accommodations, and specialty<br />

shopping, and you will find countless<br />

reasons to enjoy all that we have to offer.<br />

This Official Natchez Visitor Guide has<br />

been created to help you plan a trip unlike<br />

any other. It will provide you with a taste<br />

of Natchez but not the whole story.<br />

There’s only one way to truly understand<br />

how unique this city is and that is to enjoy<br />

it firsthand. Plan to spend more than just a<br />

few nights here because you’ll find, around<br />

every corner, there is more to uncover.<br />

We know that when you’re here, you’ll<br />

agree that there is no place in the world<br />

like Natchez, Mississippi. We look forward<br />

to enjoying a sunset with you soon!<br />

Visit Natchez<br />

6 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Contents<br />

Features<br />

Auburn, A Story All Its Own ..............30<br />

Zion Chapel AME Church................40<br />

Richie Montgomery<br />

& Debbie Willson .......................48<br />

Disc Golf...............................54<br />

Trails & Trace...........................60<br />

Also<br />

Getting Around..........................8<br />

Stay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10<br />

Eat ....................................18<br />

Events.................................26<br />

Experience Natchez ....................28<br />

Historic Sights & Museums ..............44<br />

Arts & Entertainment ....................48<br />

Sports & Outdoors......................56<br />

Trails & Trace...........................62<br />

Weddings..............................66<br />

The Natchez Visitor Guide is published annually. Information in this guide is provided by Visit Natchez. Every effort has been made ensure the accuracy<br />

of the information printed in this guide. However, information is subject to change and Visit Natchez and Hometown Magazines are not responsible for<br />

any errors or omissions. Before making plans to visit for any special event or attraction listed in this publication, call the phone number to verify dates<br />

and details. Advertising messaging is the responsibility of the individual advertiser and not that of Visit Natchez.<br />

Content and photography provided by Hometown Magazines, Jenny Hinkle, Taylor Cooley Photography, Nicole Kossum Photography, Lauren Powell<br />

Photography, Pioneer Productions, Angela Guthrie, Visit Natchez, and community partners.<br />

Visit Natchez. All rights reserved. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent. VisitNatchez.org 7

Getting Around<br />

Information<br />

Services<br />

Visit Natchez<br />

500 Main Street<br />

Suite 1<br />

601.492.3000<br />

visitnatchez.org<br />

Judge George W.<br />

Armstrong Public Library<br />

220 South Commerce Street<br />

601.445.8862<br />

armstronglibrary.com<br />

Natchez-Adams County<br />

Chamber of Commerce<br />

211 Main Street, Suite A<br />

601.445.4611<br />

natchezchamber.com<br />

Airlines<br />

Natchez-Adams County<br />

Airport (HEZ)<br />

111 Airport Road<br />

601.442.3142 / flyhez.com<br />

The Natchez-Adams County<br />

Airport is an excellent facility<br />

with a 6.500-foot runway able<br />

to host landings of Boeings<br />

737s and DC9s, as well as<br />

smaller craft.<br />

Alexandria International<br />

Airport (AEX)<br />

1100 Frank Andrews Boulevard<br />

Alexandria, LA / flyaex.org<br />

70 miles from Natchez<br />

Baton Rouge<br />

Metropolitan Airport (BTR)<br />

9430 Jackie Cochran Drive<br />

Baton Rouge, LA<br />

225.355.0333 / flybtr.com<br />

90 miles from Natchez<br />

Jackson-Medgar Wiley<br />

Evers International Airport<br />

(JAN)<br />

100 International Drive<br />

Jackson, MS<br />

601.939.5631 / jmaa.com<br />

105 miles from Natchez<br />

Louis Armstrong<br />

New Orleans<br />

International Airport (MSY)<br />

1 Terminal Drive, Kenner, LA<br />

504.303.7500 / flymsy.com<br />

170 miles from Natchez<br />

8 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Ground<br />

Transportation<br />

Downtown Karla Brown<br />

512 Franklin Street<br />

(Inside Franklin Street Relics)<br />

907.540.0001<br />

downtownkarlabrown.com<br />

Enterprise Rent-A-Car<br />

321 Devereaux Drive<br />

601.442.4600<br />

enterprise.com<br />

Natchez Transit System<br />

127 Wood Avenue<br />

601.445.7568<br />

Natchez Bus Terminal<br />

& Charter Services<br />

127 Wood Avenue / 601.445.5291<br />

Fares & Schedules / 800.231.2222<br />

greyhound.com<br />

First Class Limo Service<br />

& Transportation<br />

12 Bass Lane / 601.445.8034<br />

Railway<br />

AMTRAK<br />

Brookhaven, MS (BRH)<br />

440 North Railroad Avenue<br />

Brookhaven, MS / 800.872.7245<br />

63 miles from Natchez<br />

AMTRAK<br />

McComb, MS (MCB)<br />

114 North Railroad Boulevard<br />

McComb MS / 800.872.7245<br />

69 miles from Natchez<br />

VisitNatchez.org 9

Stay<br />

There<br />

is nowhere you will feel more at home than in<br />

Natchez’s bed and breakfasts or comfortable hotels and<br />

motels. And if you’re “roughing it,” we’ve got convenient<br />

campsites and RV parks nearby as well. From a cozy bed<br />

and breakfast, a modern hotel, or a rustic campsite, we<br />

have the perfect accommodation to suit your needs.<br />

10 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

VisitNatchez.org 11

Stay<br />

Bed & Breakfasts<br />

Aunt Clara’s Cottage circa 1835<br />

718 North Union Street - Near Downtown<br />

601.304.5378 / dshieldsusa.com<br />

Rooms: 4<br />

Beaumont House circa 1830s<br />

815 Main Street – Near Downtown<br />

601.660.0688 / thebeaumonthousenatchez.com<br />

Rooms: 4<br />

The Big Muddy Inn and Blues Room<br />

411 North Commerce Street - Downtown<br />

769.376.8045 / thebigmuddyinn.com<br />

Rooms: 6<br />

The Bost House circa 1893<br />

707 North Union Street – Near Downtown<br />

601.304.5378 / dshieldsusa.com<br />

Rooms: 3<br />

The Burn circa 1834<br />

712 North Union Street – Near Downtown<br />

601.442.1344 / theburnbnb.com<br />

Rooms: 5<br />

Choctaw Hall circa 1836<br />

310 North Wall Street – Downtown<br />

601.807.0196 / choctawhall.com<br />

Rooms: 4<br />

Clifton House circa 1904<br />

209 Clifton Avenue – Downtown<br />

830.997.2749 / absolutcharm.com/clifton-house<br />

Rooms: 5<br />

Concord Quarters circa 1819<br />

301 Gayosa Avenue – Near Downtown<br />

601.442.5687 / concordquarters.com<br />

Rooms: 3<br />

Devereaux Shields House circa 1893<br />

709 North Union Street – Near Downtown<br />

601.304.5378 / dshieldsusa.com<br />

Rooms: 2<br />

Dunleith Historic Inn circa 1856<br />

84 Homochitto Street – Near Downtown<br />

601.897.6300 / Dunleithhistoricinn.com<br />

Rooms: 22<br />

Glenfield circa 1812<br />

6 Glenfield Lane – South of Downtown<br />

601.442.1002 / Glenfieldplantation.com<br />

Rooms: 4<br />

The Guest House circa 1840<br />

401 Franklin Street – Downtown<br />

601.445.6000 / guesthouseinnatchez.com<br />

Rooms: 16<br />

12 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Breakfast or Voucher Pet Friendly Handicap Accessible Swimming Pool<br />

Historic Oak Hill Inn circa1835<br />

409 South Rankin Street – Downtown<br />

601.446.2500 / historicoakhill.com<br />

Rooms: 3<br />

The King’s Daughters B&B circa 1911<br />

32 Cemetery Road – Near Downtown<br />

601.660.1178 / thekingsdaughtersbandb.com<br />

Rooms: 5<br />

Linden Historic Bed & Breakfast circa 1790<br />

1 Conner Circle – Near Downtown<br />

769.355.2127 / lindenbandb.com<br />

Rooms: 6<br />

Magnolia Cottage circa 1831<br />

35 Homochitto Street – Near Downtown<br />

601.807.5260 / magnoliacottagebandb.com<br />

Rooms: 1<br />

Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens circa 1818<br />

1358 John A. Quitman Boulevard – Near Downtown<br />

601.442.5852 | 800.828.4531<br />

monmouthhistoricinn.com<br />

Rooms: 29<br />

Natchez Manor Bed & Breakfast circa 1800s<br />

600 Franklin Street – Downtown<br />

601.442.4441 / natchezmanor.com<br />

Rooms: 14<br />

Natchez Pearl<br />

309 North Pearl Street – Downtown<br />

601.653.9797 / thenatchezpearl.com<br />

Rooms: 5<br />

The Pillars circa 1870<br />

206 South Martin Luther King Jr. Street – Downtown<br />

504.232.0221<br />

thepillarsinnatchezbedandbreakfast.com<br />

Rooms: 4<br />

VisitNatchez.org 13

Stay<br />

Ravenna Bed & Breakfast<br />

8 Ravenna Lane – Near Downtown<br />

601.431.6411 / natchezbedandbreakfast.com<br />

Rooms: 4<br />

The Riverboat B&B circa 1864<br />

115 South Canal Street – Downtown<br />

601.445.8217 / theriverboatbnb.com<br />

Rooms: 3<br />

River Edge Suites circa 1800s<br />

41 Silver Street – Downtown<br />

601.807.1237 / riveredgesuite.com<br />

Rooms: 3<br />

River Walk Inn<br />

100 Main Street – Downtown<br />

601.870.8330<br />

Rooms: 6<br />

Stone House Musical B&B circa 1850<br />

804 Washington Street – Downtown<br />

601.897.0315 / josephstonehouse.com<br />

Rooms: 2 (booked together)<br />

Sunnyside Bed & Breakfast circa 1850<br />

102 Rembert Street – Near Downtown<br />

601.807.1148 / sunnysidenatchez.com<br />

Rooms: 3<br />

Weymouth Hall circa 1852<br />

1 Cemetery Road – Near Downtown<br />

601.445.2304 / weymouthhall.com<br />

Rooms: 3<br />

White Turpin House circa 1806<br />

608 Jefferson Street – Downtown<br />

318.452.8356 / whiteturpinhouse.com<br />

Rooms: 3<br />

14 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Magnolia Bluffs Casino Hotel<br />

645 South Canal Street – Near Downtown<br />

601.861.4600 / magnoliabluffscasino.com<br />

Rooms: 133<br />

Hotels<br />

Days Inn Hotel<br />

109 Highway 61 South – South of Downtown<br />

601.445.8291<br />

wyndhamhotels.com/days-inn<br />

Rooms: 121<br />

Deluxe Inn<br />

218 John R. Junkin Drive – Near Downtown<br />

601.442.0221<br />

Rooms: 36<br />

Excellent Inn and Suites<br />

43 Seargent Prentiss Drive – South of Downtown<br />

601.442.1693<br />

Rooms: 72<br />

FairBridge Inn Express<br />

337 Devereaux Drive – North of Downtown<br />

601.653.4145<br />

Rooms: 50<br />

Hampton Inn & Suites<br />

627 South Canal Street – Near Downtown<br />

601.446.6770 | 800.426.7866<br />

hamptoninn.com<br />

Rooms: 86<br />

Holiday Inn Express & Suites<br />

639 South Canal Street – Near Downtown<br />

601.442.4462 / hiexpress.com<br />

Rooms: 90<br />

Hotel VUE<br />

130 John R. Junkin Drive – Near Downtown<br />

601.653.2521<br />

Rooms: 90<br />

Natchez Grand Hotel and Suites<br />

111 Broadway Street – Downtown<br />

601.446.9994 / natchezgrandhotel.com<br />

Rooms: 119<br />

Red Carpet Inn<br />

271 Devereaux Drive – North of Downtown<br />

601.442.3686<br />

Rooms: 89<br />

Relax Inn<br />

40 Seargent Prentiss Drive<br />

601.304.0999<br />

Rooms: 36<br />

Super 8<br />

10 Grand Soleil Boulevard – Near Downtown<br />

601.283.3831<br />

Rooms: 60<br />

Travel Inn<br />

271-A Devereaux Drive – North of Downtown<br />

601.446.8799<br />

Rooms: 36<br />

RV Parks & Camping<br />

Natchez State Park<br />

230 B Wickcliff Road – Off Highway 61 North<br />

601.442.2658<br />

mdwfp.com<br />

Plantation Park<br />

1 Frederick Road – Off Highways 61 South<br />

601.442.5222 / plantationrvpark.org<br />

RV Sites: 41<br />

River View RV Park & Resort<br />

100 River View Parkway, Vidalia, LA<br />

318.336.1400 / riverviewrvpark.com<br />

RV Sites: 185 / Cottages: 2 / Primitive Area<br />

VisitNatchez.org 15

16 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

ArtsNatchez<br />

Gallery<br />

425 Main Street, Natchez, MS<br />

www.artsnatchez.com<br />

601-442-0043<br />

Open daily 10 AM - 5 PM<br />

<br />

Ceramics PHOTOGRAPHY PAINTING<br />

JEWELRY WOODWORK DRAWING<br />

FABRIC ARTS PEN AND INK<br />

MIXED MEDIA<br />

VisitNatchez.org 17

Eat<br />

Natchez<br />

has a rich culture that has been influenced by diverse<br />

communities, and it is beautifully reflected in our vibrant food<br />

scene. In the South, each meal is an event in itself and is cooked<br />

and served with pride. From classic Southern comfort food, fresh<br />

seafood, or international cuisine, Natchez has it all.<br />

18 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

VisitNatchez.org 19

Eat<br />

Restaurants<br />

601 On Main Southern Cooking<br />

323 Main Street / 601.810.5067<br />

Craving a little comfort food? 601 On Main<br />

has got you covered!<br />

Alberto’s Taqueria<br />

29 Seargent Prentiss Drive / 601.870.4820<br />

Fresh Mexican-style cuisine from the menu,<br />

or from the buffet!<br />

Bellemont Shake Shop<br />

175 U. S. Highway 61 South / 601.445.4581<br />

Enjoy a Natchez tradition where old fashioned<br />

hamburgers and milkshakes bring back<br />

memories of the 1960’s era of dining.<br />

Biscuits & Blues<br />

315 Main Street / 601.446.9922<br />

Dedicated to hot biscuits and cool blues,<br />

but also serving a full menu from seafood<br />

and barbeque to steaks. California wine,<br />

microbrews and specialty cocktails.<br />

Bowie’s Rabbit Hole<br />

100 Main Street / 601.653.0915<br />

The newest downtown restaurant is at a location<br />

locals and visitors know and love. Family owned,<br />

come for the food and beverages, stay for the<br />

entertainment!<br />

Buttercup Bakery & Deli<br />

483 John R. Junkin Drive / 601.442.0247<br />

Stop by for lunch and grab one of their delicious<br />

sandwiches, wraps or salads. Leave with a<br />

cupcake or other pastry for dessert!<br />

Butter Cakery<br />

404 Main Street / 601.571.7042<br />

Our mission is to spread happiness and cheer<br />

one slice at a time. Come enjoy the best slice<br />

you’ve ever had or choose a custom cake to<br />

share.<br />

The Camp Restaurant<br />

21 Silver Street / 601.897.0466<br />

Dig in to one of our gourmet burgers while<br />

watching sports and drinking craft beer with<br />

your family and friends.<br />

The Carriage House Restaurant<br />

Stanton Hall<br />

401 High Street / 601.445.5151<br />

Specializing in delicious southern cuisine, from<br />

their famous fried chicken and silver dollar sized<br />

biscuits to fresh Gulf seafood.<br />

The Castle Restaurant<br />

Dunleith Historic Inn<br />

84 Homochitto Street / 601.897.6300<br />

Located in Dunleith’s original carriage house,<br />

this 18th century brick structure serves delectable<br />

southern cuisine such as Godchaux salad, pecan<br />

crusted redfish, and mouthwatering flourless<br />

chocolate truffle “cake.”<br />

Chic Shak<br />

104 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street / 601.653.0135<br />

The new snack shack has everything you’re<br />

looking for! From box meals, to fried green<br />

beans, to jambalaya, check out this fun, new<br />

restaurant downtown.<br />

20 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

County Pie<br />

55 Seargent Prentiss Drive, #56<br />

601.442.0009<br />

County Pie offers delicious specialty pizzas,<br />

burgers and pastas, and 16 craft beers on tap.<br />

The Donut Shop<br />

501 John R. Junkin Drive / 601.442.2317<br />

If you don’t get there early enough for donuts,<br />

you’re sure to be delighted with their homemade<br />

hot tamales or juicy burgers.<br />

The Fish House<br />

414 U. S. Highway 61 North / 601.442.2955<br />

Catfish, seafood, burgers, chicken, sandwiches<br />

and more!<br />

The Guest House Mediterranean Restaurant<br />

201 North Pearl Street / 601.445.6000<br />

Serving traditional Mediterranean cuisine.<br />

El Potro<br />

105 Northgate Road / 601.446.8828<br />

Fresh Mexican cuisine, including appetizers, lunch<br />

specials and our signature dish, “Potro Special.”<br />

Fat Mama’s Tamales<br />

303 South Canal Street / 601.442.4548<br />

A local favorite with a festive atmosphere and<br />

outdoor patio. Known for their great hot tamales,<br />

fire and ice pickles, and “Knock You Naked<br />

Margaritas.”<br />

Frankie’s On Main<br />

422 Main Street / 601.861.6713<br />

Options for lunch, dinner, and brunch! From bao<br />

buns to bone-in steaks grilled on Natchez’s only<br />

wood fire grill.<br />

VisitNatchez.org 21

Eat<br />

Jughead’s Fish Fry<br />

217 John R. Junkin Drive / 601.445.8999<br />

Serving up fried catfish, fried pickles, and our<br />

famous hushpuppies.<br />

La Fiesta Grande<br />

288 John R. Junkin Drive / 601.445.0720<br />

Fine Mexican food in a lively atmosphere.<br />

The menu includes barbeque ribs, fried catfish,<br />

and all your south-of-the-border favorites.<br />

The Little Easy Café<br />

114 High Street / 601.653.0774<br />

Serving boozy brunch and lunch, this cozy<br />

neighborhood spot dishes out sophisticated<br />

cuisine with hometown ease.<br />

Little Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse<br />

25 Seargent Prentiss Drive / 601.304.5802<br />

Dine while hibachi chefs cook your meal right<br />

in front of your eyes. You will be very pleased<br />

at the selection of fine appetizers, chef’s<br />

specials, and fresh sushi.<br />

Magnolia Grill<br />

49 Silver Street / 601.446.7670<br />

Serving a wide variety of seafood, steaks and<br />

burgers, and one of the best river views in town.<br />

The Malt Shop<br />

4 Homochitto Street / 601.445.4843<br />

A local favorite for over 60 years, the Malt Shop<br />

serves a little bit of everything. Don’t forget to<br />

try the famous upside-down banana split!<br />

Moo’s Barn & Grill<br />

3 Government Fleet Road / 769.355.2442<br />

Enjoy a laid-back environment with burgers,<br />

wings, amazing BBQ, and homemade cheese<br />

sticks.<br />

Natchez Brewing Company & Kitchen<br />

207 High Street / 769.355.2225<br />

Brick oven pizza topped with fresh ingredients.<br />

Pair your pizza, brat, or calzone with a handcrafted<br />

beer.<br />

22 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Pedro’s Tacos and Tequila Bar<br />

355 Devereaux Drive / 601.304.5760<br />

Fun atmosphere with a Tex-Mex style menu.<br />

Pig Out Inn<br />

116 South Canal Street / 601.442.8050<br />

Specializing in smoked meats and a sauce with<br />

the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.<br />

Natchez Coffee Company<br />

509 Franklin Street / 601.304.1415<br />

Serving hot and cold coffee drinks, breakfast,<br />

sandwiches, lunch specials, salads, fresh<br />

smoothies, and Blue Bell ice cream.<br />

Natchez Midtown Grill<br />

120 North Martin Luther King Jr. Street<br />

601.431.6626<br />

Searching for the classics? Look no further for<br />

the best burgers, fries, wings, poboys, and more.<br />

Natchez Nutrition<br />

406 Franklin Street / 769.355.2020<br />

Offering healthy and delicious meal replacement<br />

shakes, loaded teas for energy and vitamins,<br />

hydration and kids’ drinks, plus pre- and postworkout<br />

drinks and shakes.<br />

Planet Thailand<br />

116 North Commerce Street / 601.442.4220<br />

Traditional and authentic Thai dishes and sushi,<br />

and don’t forget amazing Vietnamese pho.<br />

Playmakers Bar & Grill<br />

Magnolia Bluffs Casino<br />

7 Roth Hill / 601.235.0046<br />

Enjoy the bets, bites, and beers that this casino has<br />

to offer. With over 40 TVs and daily food specials,<br />

this is the best spot to relax with friends.<br />

The Pub<br />

Dunleith Historic Inn<br />

84 Homochitto Street / 601.897.6306<br />

Nestled in the original horse stables of Dunleith<br />

Historic Inn, The Castle Pub is a cozy English<br />

pub with an extensive bar, signature drink menu,<br />

and wine list. Guests can order from The Castle<br />

Restaurant menu or select an appetizer from the<br />

pub menu. Be sure to check out the new outdoor<br />

patio and fire pit!<br />

Natchez Olive Market<br />

636 Franklin Street / 601.920.1790<br />

A specialty food market “Fit for Foodies” sourcing<br />

ultra-premium olive oils, infused balsamic<br />

vinegars, artisanal cheeses, and charcuterie.<br />

Pearl Street Pasta<br />

105 South Pearl Street / 601.442.9284<br />

Delicious Italian food and a variety of American<br />

dishes, seafood, and steaks that keeps the locals<br />

coming back.<br />

VisitNatchez.org 23

Eat<br />

Quitman Lounge<br />

Monmouth Historic Inn<br />

1358 John A. Quitman Boulevard<br />

601.442.5852<br />

A casual option at Monmouth, gather in the<br />

downstairs rooms for drinks and hors d’oeuvres<br />

where General John R. Quitman once had his<br />

study.<br />

Red Top Seafood<br />

55 Seargent Prentiss Drive, #24 / 601.653.0371<br />

Dine on the freshest seafood around, whether<br />

it be one of our delicious sandwiches or full<br />

dinners.<br />

Restaurant 1818<br />

Monmouth Historic Inn<br />

1358 John A. Quitman Boulevard<br />

601.442.5852<br />

Guests can select from a choice of individual<br />

menu items or an a la carte’ basis all while<br />

dining in historic splendor.<br />

Steampunk Coffee Roasters/Papi Y Papi<br />

706 Franklin Street / 601.334.5179<br />

Papi Y Papi featuring Steampunk Coffee,<br />

fine chocolate and premium cigar, conservas,<br />

mixology items and Espresso bar.<br />

Wardo’s<br />

309 North Broadway Street / 769.355.2248<br />

This family-owned eatery features New Orleansstyle<br />

poboys, hand-scooped ice cream, and<br />

ice-cold beer steps away from the bluff and one<br />

of the best views of the mighty Mississippi River.<br />

Wishes Sweets & Eats<br />

504 Franklin Street<br />

Natchez’s newest bakery, serving all the sweet<br />

treats as well as ice cream, sandwiches, and<br />

salads. Drop in for lunch, or order your sweets<br />

ahead of time.<br />

Rolling River Reloaded<br />

406 Main Street / 601.653.0747<br />

A variety of simply southern classic dishes,<br />

with a creative twist, giving our customers a<br />

true “Soulful Southern Experience.”<br />

Slick Rick’s Café<br />

109 North Pearl Street / 601.445.9900<br />

Serving a wide variety of sandwiches, wraps,<br />

and salads all seasoned with his very own<br />

organic spices, and the cupcakes are not to<br />

be missed!<br />

Soda Pops<br />

352 John R. Junkin Drive / 601.304.0000<br />

A family restaurant serving burgers, sandwiches,<br />

hot dogs, nachos, and their very own ice cream.<br />

Southern Style Restaurant, Catering & Bar<br />

227 Devereaux Drive / 601.442.3334<br />

Offering home-style meals with a variety of<br />

meats, starches, and vegetables prepared for<br />

a sit-down dinner or heavy hors d’ouerves.<br />

24 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT<br />

BEER, COCKTAILS, WINE<br />

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK WITH<br />

HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY!<br />

100 MAIN ST, NATCHEZ, MS (601) 653-0915<br />

VisitNatchez.org 25

Events<br />

January<br />

• Mardi Gras Celebration & Parade<br />

• Grand Village of the Natchez Indians<br />

Eleventh Moon Storytelling and Bonfire<br />

• MLK Day Parade<br />

February<br />

• Mardi Gras Celebrations & Parade<br />

• Natchez Literary & Cinema Celebration<br />

• Black History Month Celebrations<br />

& Parade<br />

March<br />

• Natchez Spring Pilgrimage<br />

• Save the Hall Ball @ Stanton Hall<br />

• St. Patrick’s Day Parade<br />

• Powwow of the Natchez Indians<br />

April<br />

• Natchez Spring Pilgrimage<br />

• Rhythm Night Club<br />

Annual Commemorative Event<br />

• Harmony in the Park<br />

• Magnolia Ball @ Magnolia Hall<br />

• Live @ Five Spring Series<br />

• Junkin’ on the River<br />

• Natchez Concours D’Elegance<br />

• Visit Natchez Bluff City Open<br />

Disc Golf Tournament<br />

May<br />

• Claws for a Cause<br />

• Natchez Festival of Music<br />

• Live @ Five Spring Series<br />

• Memorial Day Parade<br />

June<br />

• Juneteenth Celebrations<br />

• Crepe Myrtle Festival<br />

• Natchez Bicycle Classic<br />

• White Linen Art Walk<br />

26 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

July<br />

• Blessing of the Flotilla & Fireworks<br />

on Lake St. John<br />

• 4th of July Music & Fireworks<br />

on the Bluff<br />

• Food & Wine Festival<br />

September<br />

• Natchez Fall Pilgrimage<br />

• Live @ Five Fall Series<br />

• Soul Food Fusion Festival<br />

October<br />

• Natchez Fall Pilgrimage<br />

• Junkin’ on the River<br />

• Longwood Afternoon Music Fest<br />

• Natchez Balloon Festival<br />

• Y’all Means All-The Weekend<br />

• Live @ Five Fall Series<br />

• Biker’s Weekend on the Bluff<br />

November<br />

• “Angels on the Bluff” Cemetery Tour<br />

• Bigfoot Birthday Bash<br />

• Rotary Chili Cook-off<br />

• Lighting of the Christmas Tree<br />

• Allumer Art Exhibit<br />

December<br />

• Christmas in Natchez<br />

– A Month-Long Celebration<br />

• Christmas Pilgrimage of Historic Homes<br />

• Natchez Festival of Music presents<br />

“A Christmas Cabaret”<br />

• Christmas Parade<br />

• New Year’s Eve Celebration & Fireworks<br />

• Wardo’s Rouxdolph Roll<br />

VisitNatchez.org 27

Experience<br />

Natchez<br />

Experience the beauty of the rolling Mississippi<br />

landscape that has inspired artists and musicians<br />

of Natchez for so long. The Mississippi Blues Trail<br />

markers and iconic music venues will transport you<br />

back to when they first took shape. For outdoor<br />

enthusiasts, our landscape welcomes you.<br />

28 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

VisitNatchez.org 29

Auburn...<br />

a story all its own.<br />

Auburn is currently stewarded by<br />

the Historic Natchez Foundation<br />

who is celebrating their<br />

50th anniversary in 2024.<br />

30 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Auburn...<br />

a story all its own.<br />

SUSAN MARQUEZ<br />

The 1812 mansion anchors Duncan Park and has<br />

become the responsibility of the Historic Natchez<br />

Foundation. It is currently being renovated by Laine and<br />

Kevin Berry, who have a love for old things—old houses,<br />

to be exact. They are drawn to them like moths to a flame,<br />

and they discovered a plethora of old-house riches in<br />

Natchez. The couple has a show called Our Restoration<br />

Nation that chronicles their many projects. “We have been<br />

doing restoration work together for 25 years,” Laine says.<br />

Carter Burns, the executive director of the Historic<br />

Natchez Foundation, had been following the Berrys on<br />

social media and reached out to them about restoring a<br />

home in Natchez. They moved here in 2020 and purchased<br />

a home which they restored in 2021. The historic home,<br />

built in 1896, is located on Linton Avenue. Last year they<br />

purchased Hope Farm. The house was built from 1780<br />

to 1792 by Carlos de Grand Pre’.<br />

2024 VisitNatchez.org VISIT NATCHEZ 31

“I don’t know of<br />

any other city in<br />

the country that<br />

has such a wealth<br />

of architectural<br />

history.”<br />

32 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Burns knew they would be the right people to see<br />

Auburn into the future. “The building and the surrounding<br />

222 acres were donated to the City in 1911,” says Burns.<br />

“The City developed Duncan Park to include tennis courts,<br />

ball fields, and more for public recreation. For years, Auburn<br />

was run by volunteer groups, but when the last group<br />

aged out, the City asked us to manage it.” An agreement<br />

was reached with the Berrys to restore and operate Auburn.<br />

The 7,000-square-foot home was designed and built by<br />

Levi Weeks for Lyman Harding, the first attorney general<br />

of Mississippi. When Harding died in 1820, Dr. Stephen<br />

Duncan purchased the home and expanded it with<br />

symmetrical wings on either side. He later abandoned the<br />

home just prior to the Civil War and the house was placed<br />

in the care of his descendants. One of the most prominent<br />

features of the home is a magnificent freestanding<br />

staircase. Weeks’ exquisite woodwork stands out as well.<br />

The restoration won’t be an easy one. “To the average<br />

person, the home appears to be in good shape, but there’s<br />

a lot of work to restoring and maintaining an old home<br />

like this,” says Laine. There are added challenges because<br />

the home was declared a National Historic Landmark in<br />

1974, and a Mississippi Landmark in 1984. “That adds a<br />

whole layer of approvals. We’re coordinating with the<br />

Mississippi Department of Archives and History.” When<br />

finished, the home will be open to tours and special events.<br />

Laine says she and Kevin love working together.<br />

“We will be involved in much of the hands-on work on the<br />

home. We get to share our passion for old homes,” she<br />

says. “Our culture exists in these built structures. One of<br />

the things that makes Natchez so special is that all the<br />

built environments over the centuries in this country can<br />

be found in Natchez, from the Colonial period to midtwentieth-century<br />

modern. I don’t know of any other city in<br />

the country that has such a wealth of architectural history.”<br />

The Berrys will be videoing the restoration process at<br />

Auburn for their show, Our Restoration Nation, on YouTube<br />

and Instagram.<br />

2024 VISIT NATCHEZ 33

Historic Homes<br />

OPEN YEAR-ROUND<br />

For the most updated tour information,<br />

please call or visit our websites.<br />

A. Auburn • CIRCA 1812<br />

400 Duncan Avenue<br />

601.442.5981<br />

historicauburn.org<br />

Call for updated year-round<br />

schedule.<br />

B. The Burn • CIRCA 1834<br />

712 North Union Street<br />

601.442.1344<br />

theburnbnb.com<br />

Thursday & Friday 5:00pm<br />

C. Choctaw Hall • CIRCA 1836<br />

310 North Wall Street<br />

601.807.0196<br />

choctawhall.com<br />

Friday & Saturday<br />

Tours at 11am and 3pm<br />

D. Concord Quarters •<br />

CIRCA 1819<br />

301 Gayosa Avenue<br />

601.442.5687<br />

concordquarters.com<br />

Tours by appointment.<br />

E. Dr. John Bowman Banks<br />

House • CIRCA 1892<br />

9 St. Catherine Street<br />

601.442.5060<br />

Tours by appointment.<br />

F. The House on<br />

Ellicott Hill’s • CIRCA 1798<br />

211 North Canal Street<br />

601.443.9065<br />

natchezgardenclub.com<br />

Friday-Sunday 10am and 2pm<br />

G. Lansdowne • CIRCA 1853<br />

17 Marshall Road<br />

601.807.5007<br />

lansdowneplantation.com<br />

By appointment only.<br />

H. Linden • CIRCA 1790<br />

1 Conner Circle<br />

769.355.2127<br />

lindenbandb.com<br />

Saturdays at 9:30am only.<br />

I. Longwood • CIRCA 1860-61<br />

140 Lower Woodville Road<br />

601.442.5193<br />

natchezpilgrimage.com<br />

Daily 9am-3pm.<br />

Tours every half hour.<br />

34 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

J. Magnolia Hall • CIRCA 1858<br />

215 South Pearl Street<br />

601.493.9065<br />

natchezgardenclub.org<br />

Daily 10am and 2pm<br />

K. Melrose • CIRCA 1848<br />

1 Melrose-Montebello Parkway<br />

601.446.5790<br />

Part of the Natchez National Historical Park.<br />

nps.gov/natc/index.htm<br />

Open daily<br />

Tours at 9am, 10am, 11am,<br />

2pm, 3pm, 4pm<br />

L. Monmouth Historic Inn<br />

CIRCA 1818<br />

1358 John A. Quitman Blvd<br />

601.442.5852<br />

monmouthhistoricinn.com<br />

Tours at 10am and 2pm daily<br />

M. Oak Hill • CIRCA 1835<br />

409 South Rankin Street<br />

601.446.2500<br />

historicoakhill.com<br />

Daily tours 1pm and 2pm<br />

N. Rosalie • CIRCA 1820<br />

100 Orleans Street<br />

601.445.4555 / 601.446.5676<br />

rosaliemansion.com<br />

Tours begin at top of every hour.<br />

Daily summer hours 9am-5pm.<br />

Last tour at 4pm.<br />

Daily winter hours 10am-4pm.<br />

Last tour at 3pm<br />

O. Stanton Hall • CIRCA 1857<br />

401 High Street<br />

601.442.6282<br />

natchezpilgrimage.com<br />

9am-3pm. Tours every half hour.<br />

Last tour at 3pm.<br />

P. Sunnyside Bed<br />

& Breakfast • CIRCA 1852<br />

102 Rembert Street<br />

601.807.1148<br />

sunnysidenatchez.com<br />

By appointment only.<br />

Q. The Towers<br />

CIRCA 1798, 1826, 1858<br />

801 Myrtle Avenue<br />

601.446.6890<br />

thetowersofnatchez.com<br />

Wednesday, Friday,<br />

Saturday - 2pm<br />

For all other time tours, visit<br />

the website or call for updated<br />

year-round schedule.<br />

R. William Johnson House<br />

CIRCA 1841<br />

210 State Street / 601.446.5790<br />

Part of the Natchez National Historical Park.<br />

nps.gov/natc/index.htm<br />

Tours 9:00am - 5pm.<br />

VisitNatchez.org 35

Roth Hill<br />

Clifton Ave.<br />

Broadway St.<br />

Linton Ave.<br />

Maple St.<br />

Wall St.<br />

Pearl St.<br />

Commerce St.<br />

Union St.<br />

Rankin St.<br />

Dr. MLK Jr. St.<br />

Historic Houses<br />

National<br />

Cemetery<br />

1.6 MILES<br />

5<br />

Cemetery Rd.<br />

1.5 MILES<br />

Natchez City<br />

Cemetery<br />

4<br />

3<br />

Foster<br />

Mounds<br />

G<br />

4.3 MILES<br />

2<br />

Emerald<br />

Mound<br />

George F. West St.<br />

Gayosa Ave.<br />

D<br />

20<br />

Myrtle St.<br />

Elm St.<br />

Q<br />

Oak St.<br />

Bishop St.<br />

12<br />

B<br />

B St.<br />

P<br />

Rembert St.<br />

Madison St.<br />

St. Charles St. Fourth St. Shaw<br />

Natchez Visitor<br />

Center at The Depot<br />

Nature Trail Entrance<br />

27<br />

22<br />

21<br />

18<br />

2<br />

F<br />

28<br />

24 O<br />

C<br />

High St.<br />

Jefferson St.<br />

Franklin St.<br />

6 8<br />

3<br />

1<br />

7<br />

R<br />

J<br />

Monroe St.<br />

Main St.<br />

29<br />

State St.<br />

Washington St.<br />

19<br />

1<br />

E<br />

Arlington Ave.<br />

St. Catherine St.<br />

East Franklin St.<br />

4<br />

John A. Quitman Blvd.<br />

John A. Quitman Blvd.<br />

26<br />

11<br />

Silver St.<br />

Delta Music Museum<br />

N<br />

South Canal St. North Canal St.<br />

Briel Ave.<br />

Orleans St.<br />

M<br />

Homochitto St.<br />

Winchester St.<br />

5<br />

10.8 MILES<br />

14<br />

Ravenna Ln.<br />

Mississippi River Bridge<br />

25<br />

23<br />

Frogmore Plantation<br />

18.0 MILES<br />

Government Fleet Rd.<br />

John R. Junkin Dr.<br />

Route to Natchez Visitors Center<br />

Driving Tour of Historical Homes<br />

Public Restrooms<br />

I<br />

36 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Lynda Lee Dr.<br />

S. Concord Ave.<br />

Auburn Ave.<br />

17<br />

Junkin St.<br />

Lower Woodville Rd.<br />

A<br />

Duncan Ave.<br />

L<br />

Park Pl.<br />

Ratcliff Pl.<br />

9<br />

D’Evereaux Dr.<br />

Oakhurst<br />

Melrose Ave.<br />

H<br />

Old Pond<br />

15<br />

Natchez State Park<br />

13.5 MILES<br />

Liberty Rd.<br />

K<br />

Seargent S. Prentiss Dr.<br />

13.0 MILES<br />

Jefferson Davis Blvd.<br />

1<br />

Natchez Trace Pkwy.<br />

Grand Village<br />

of the Natchez<br />

Indians<br />

Beau Pre’<br />

Golf Course<br />

US<br />

55<br />

3.0 MILES<br />

St. Catherine<br />

Creek NWR<br />

13<br />

10<br />

16<br />

1<br />

US<br />

98<br />

10.0 MILES<br />

1<br />

2<br />

3<br />

4<br />

5<br />

1<br />

2<br />

3<br />

Area Map<br />

1 Grand Village of the Natchez Indians<br />

2 Bridge of Sighs<br />

★ Natchez Visitor Center at the Depot<br />

4 Natchez City Cemetery<br />

5 National Cemetery<br />

6 Natchez Convention Center<br />

7 Natchez in Historic Photographs<br />

8 African American History Museum<br />

9 Natchez State Park<br />

10 Natchez Trace Parkway<br />

11 Natchez Under the Hill<br />

12 Old South Winery<br />

13 St. Catherine Creek NWR<br />

14 Fort Rosalie<br />

15 Duncan Park (Golf & Tennis)<br />

16 Beau Pre’ Golf Course<br />

17 Forks of the Road<br />

18 Natchez Trails Pavillon<br />

19 Rhythm Nightclub Memorial Museum<br />

20 Natchez Little Theatre<br />

21 The Bandstand at Natchez Bluff Park<br />

22 Magnolia Bluffs Casino<br />

23 Frogmore Cotton Plantation and Gins<br />

24 Natchez Brewing Company<br />

25 Bluff City Bowl<br />

26 Delta Music Museum<br />

27 Observation Deck<br />

28 Proud to Take a Stand Monument<br />

29 St. Mary’s Prayer Garden<br />

Blues Trail<br />

1 Bud Scott<br />

2 The Ealey Brothers<br />

3 Natchez Burning<br />

4 Papa Lightfoot<br />

5 Mississippi to Louisiana<br />

Mound Trail<br />

1 Grand Village of the Natchez Indians<br />

2 Emerald Mound<br />

3 Foster Mounds<br />

Freedom Trail<br />

1 Dr. Banks House<br />

VisitNatchez.org 37

38 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

2024 VISIT NATCHEZ 39

Zion Chapel A.M.E. Church<br />

A historic church serving the present age. MELANIE MCMILLAN<br />

For over 165 years, a beautiful white church has<br />

stood on the corner of North Dr. MLK Jr. and Jefferson<br />

Streets. The building that is now home to the Zion<br />

Chapel African Methodist Episcopal congregation<br />

was originally constructed by First Presbyterian<br />

Church as a church home for Second Presbyterian<br />

Church. “Zion Chapel was organized in the early<br />

1860s by Page Tyler,” says Zion Chapel Pastor Rev.<br />

Birdon Mitchell. “The church was originally located<br />

on Union Street between Franklin and Main, but that<br />

building was destroyed by fire. It was then that the<br />

congregation moved to the current location, which<br />

they rented from First Presbyterian Church. On July 1,<br />

1868, Zion Chapel purchased the property, and it has<br />

been home ever since.”<br />

Serving as pastor at Zion Chapel at that time was<br />

Hiram Rhodes Revels, a well known figure in Mississippi<br />

history. Revels was elected as a Natchez alderman in<br />

1868 and went on to represent Adams County in the<br />

Mississippi senate. In 1870, after being nominated by<br />

the Mississippi legislature, Revels was sworn in as the<br />

first African American to serve in the United States<br />

Senate. Following his senate term, Revels became<br />

the first president of Alcorn A&M College, now Alcorn<br />

State University.<br />

Zion Chapel recently became home to a bust of<br />

Hiram Revels, sculpted by Oklahoma artist Bob Willis,<br />

and unveiled at a ceremony on September 30, 2023.<br />

Roscoe Barnes III, PhD, cultural heritage tourism<br />

manager with Visit Natchez, was instrumental in<br />

organizing the event, according to Pastor Mitchell.<br />

“Roscoe deserves the credit for the idea to host an<br />

unveiling ceremony at the church,” says Pastor Mitchell.<br />

“We are grateful to Visit Natchez for working with us<br />

to bring this event to the public.”<br />

Many were on hand to honor and speak about<br />

the life and legacy of Hiram Revels. Along with Rev.<br />

Birdon Mitchell, Norma West, trustee pro tem of Zion<br />

Chapel A.M.E. Church, and member of the Downtown<br />

Natchez Alliance Board of Directors, spoke to<br />

attendees, followed by Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson.<br />

“He (Hiram Revels) is a man who emulated the best of<br />

America and the best of Natchez,” Gibson said.<br />

40 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Rev. Dr. C. Edward “CJ” Rhodes II, director of the<br />

Hiram Rhodes Revels Institute for Ethical Leadership<br />

at Alcorn State University spoke about the leadership<br />

of Revels at Alcorn State. “It’s because of that heritage<br />

that we remain a school dedicated to knowledge and<br />

character,” Rhodes said. Harold Woodson Jr., greatgreat-grandson<br />

of Hiram Revels spoke on behalf of<br />

family members, saying “Rev. Revels was a trailblazer,<br />

a man of great faith and conviction.”<br />

Today, Pastor Mitchell and the congregation of<br />

Zion Chapel AME Church continue to carry on the<br />

legacy of president, senator, and pastor Hiram Revels.<br />

Over the past two years, they have welcomed multiple<br />

tour groups making stops in Natchez, providing the<br />

opportunity to share the history of the church with<br />

people from all over the world.<br />

Rev. Mitchell, once a gospel singer who was called<br />

to preach in 1980, has been pastor of Zion Chapel<br />

since 2005. “Many people don’t realize that the AME<br />

church is not a black congregation,” Mitchell says.<br />

“Although the denomination was originally organized at<br />

St. George’s United Methodist Church in Philadelphia<br />

by people of African descent, the church today has<br />

congregations in 29 countries, made up of people<br />

from all walks of life. All are welcome at Zion Chapel.”<br />

Services are held every Sunday at 9:30am and are<br />

livestreamed on Facebook. For more information<br />

on services and mid-week Bible studies visit<br />

www.facebook.com/ZionChapelAMENatchez<br />

2024 VISIT NATCHEZ 41

COMING<br />

SOON<br />

Be on the lookout for<br />

at The Depot<br />

200 N Broadway St.<br />

Opening this Spring<br />

on The Bluff<br />

www.visitnatchez.org<br />

42 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

2024 VISIT NATCHEZ 43

Historic Sites<br />

& Museums<br />

Historic Churches<br />

Beulah Baptist Church<br />

710 B Street<br />

601.442.6150<br />

Clarmount Missionary Baptist Church<br />

114 Cemetery Road<br />

601.630.7887<br />

First Presbyterian Church<br />

400 State Street<br />

601.442.2581<br />

fpcnatchez.org<br />

Holy Family Catholic Church<br />

16 Orange Avenue<br />

601.445.5700<br />

Jefferson Street United Methodist Church<br />

511 Jefferson Street<br />

601.442.3795<br />

jeffersonstreetchurch.org<br />

Pine Ridge Presbyterian Church<br />

1782 Pine Ridge Road<br />

Rosehill Missionary Baptist Church<br />

607 ½ Madison Street<br />

601.445.4386<br />

rosehill4u.com<br />

St. John’s United Methodist Church<br />

323 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Street<br />

601.304.1174<br />

St. Mary Basilica<br />

107 South Union Street<br />

601.445.5616<br />

stmarybasilica.org<br />

Temple B’Nai Israel<br />

213 South Commerce Street<br />

601.442.2500<br />

natcheztemple.org<br />

Trinity Episcopal Church<br />

305 South Commerce<br />

601.445.8432<br />

Trinitynatchez.org<br />

Washington Methodist Church<br />

814 Highway 61 North<br />

washington-umc.org<br />

Zion Chapel AME Church<br />

228 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Street<br />

601.442.1396<br />

44 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Historic Parks<br />

Grand Village of the Natchez Indians<br />

400 Jefferson Davis Boulevard<br />

601.446.6502<br />

natchezgrandvillage.com<br />

Natchez National Historical Park<br />

National Park Service Headquarters<br />

640 South Canal Street<br />

601.446.5790 / nps.gov/natc<br />

• Forks of the Road<br />

232 St. Catherine Street<br />

• Fort Rosalie<br />

528 South Canal Street<br />

• Melrose<br />

1 Melrose Montebello Parkway<br />

Natchez Visitor Center<br />

640 South Canal Street<br />

• The William Johnson House<br />

210 State Street<br />

Emerald Mound / Emeral Mound Road<br />

Museums<br />

Delta Music Museum & Arcade Theatre<br />

218 Louisiana Avenue, Ferriday, LA<br />

318.757.9999 / deltamusicmuseum.com<br />

Natchez Museum of African American<br />

History & Culture<br />

301 Main Street / 601.445.0728 / visitnapac.net<br />

Rhythm Night Club Memorial Museum<br />

5 Saint Catherine Street / 601.597.0557<br />

rnconsitemm.org<br />

Proud To Take A Stand Monument<br />

415 South Canal Street<br />

VisitNatchez.org 45

WELCOME TO<br />

Natchez!<br />

Dreaming of life in the best little small town in the South?<br />

Contact one of our dedicated Real Estate experts to see how<br />

that dream can become a reality.<br />

LOCAL: (713) 291-1441<br />

NATCHEZ@ABSOLUTECHARM.COM<br />

400 S. MAIN ST. | NATCHEZ, MS<br />

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Let us share it with you<br />

Experience the true authentic Natchez with<br />

a stay at one of our luxury vacation rentals.<br />

Trust us to show you the best little town in<br />

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OFFICE: (830) 997-2749<br />

LOCAL: (713) 291-1441<br />

NATCHEZ@ABSOLUTECHARM.COM<br />

46 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

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2024 VISIT NATCHEZ 47

Ritchie Montgomery<br />

& Debbie Willson SUSAN MARQUEZ<br />

Ritchie Montgomery was born just 16 miles<br />

north of Natchez in Fayette, Mississippi, but he was<br />

destined to go to Hollywood. “I left this area as a<br />

25-year-old full of hopes and dreams.” He spent<br />

the next thirty years in Los Angeles.<br />

“I figured out that I was funny while attending<br />

Sewanee Military Academy in Tennessee.”<br />

Ritchie recalls his art teacher, Colonel Moore,<br />

who recognized that Ritchie had a creative mind.<br />

“He encouraged me to take art classes, but I<br />

couldn’t paint or sculpt at all.” But Moore took an<br />

interest in Ritchie and they talked a lot.<br />

“Colonel Moore suggested we put together<br />

some skits to entertain the school. I did parodies<br />

of the alcoholic bus driver who managed to get us<br />

to sporting events and back to the school without<br />

killing us all.” The school’s janitor, who was often<br />

the butt of jokes and bullying by other students<br />

became a friend, of sorts, to Ritchie. “We talked a<br />

lot and he was always kind. He and his family lived<br />

in a cave. I told him I was going to do a skit about<br />

him and asked him to come. He declined, but asked<br />

if I would wear his boots.”<br />

Ritchie opened and closed the show with his<br />

skits, and when he looked into the audience at the<br />

end, he saw the janitor. “He said it was one of the<br />

most exciting moments of his life. I knew then that my<br />

life had changed. I understood the power of the<br />

performing arts and the effect I could have on people.”<br />

Ritchie attended Ole Miss before transferring to<br />

the University of Southern Mississippi where he<br />

earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts.<br />

Before heading to Los Angeles, Ritchie managed<br />

to get his Screen Actors Guild card due to his role in<br />

Freedom Road, filmed in Natchez in 1977. “I was a<br />

production assistant, and they recruited me to play a<br />

Union soldier. I was also the assistant to Mohammed<br />

Ali in that film and we became friends.”<br />

48 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

By 2010, Ritchie was ready for a change. He had lived<br />

the hustle-and-bustle life in Los Angeles for three decades<br />

and he was longing for a quieter life. When he was called<br />

to work on The Help, he packed up and drove across the<br />

country to Greenville, Mississippi. “The first thing they<br />

asked me was if I could drive a 1940s bus. I told them I<br />

could drive anything from a covered wagon to a Zamboni,<br />

which is true!”<br />

During his career, Ritchie has acted in plays, commercials,<br />

television shows, and feature films. He also did a stint<br />

at The Comedy Store in Los Angeles. “I have 189 credits<br />

so far in my career, and I’m shooting for 200.” As busy as<br />

the film industry is in Mississippi, especially in Natchez,<br />

that shouldn’t take very long. I love being back in Natchez.<br />

My friends in Los Angeles don’t believe me when I tell them<br />

I can walk to work!<br />

Debbie Willson also contributes to the vibrant art scene<br />

in Natchez. Her art can be seen in several historic homes in<br />

town, which is affirming for Debbie. “To have a piece of<br />

new art in a historic home is awesome.”<br />

As a child growing up in Concordia Parrish, just across<br />

the river from Natchez, Debbie has had a camera in her<br />

hands since she was only seven or eight years old. “I fell<br />

in love with photography at an early age.” But Debbie says<br />

her “real” art started ten years ago when she wanted to do<br />

something different. “I had been refinishing furniture and<br />

doing some gold leaf,” but she wanted to have a more<br />

creative outlet. She began printing on canvas, “but God<br />

gave me an idea to print my art behind antiqued mirrors.”<br />

Debbie creates large pieces, some as big as four feet by<br />

six feet.<br />

Today Debbie sells her art at Arts District Studio on<br />

Commerce Street, as well as in a gallery on Royal Street<br />

in New Orleans. Much of her artwork hangs in Ochsner’s<br />

hospitals and clinics around New Orleans.<br />

“I love traveling, but I always love coming home to<br />

Natchez. I raised my children here, and this is home.”<br />

Ritchie says Debbie does readings with him when he’s<br />

preparing to audition for a role. And he helps her haul art.<br />

“We have known each other for over 30 years, and we<br />

have always supported each other.”<br />

VisitNatchez.org 49

Arts & Entertainment<br />

Art Galleries &Studios<br />

Arts District Studio<br />

107 North Commerce Street / 323.718.6900<br />

ArtsNatchez Gallery<br />

425 Main Street / 601.442.0043<br />

artsnatchez.com<br />

Conde Contemporary<br />

334 Main Street / 601.392.2259<br />

condecontemporary.com<br />

Conner Burns Studio<br />

209 Franklin Street / 601.446.6334<br />

connerburns.com<br />

Mississippi School of Folk Arts<br />

5 East Franklin Street / 601.493.4242<br />

msfolkart.org<br />

Natchez Fine Framing & Art Gallery<br />

518 Main Street / 601.446.9345<br />

Natchez in Historic Photographs Gallery<br />

at First Presbyterian Church - Stratton Chapel<br />

405 State Street / 601.442.2581<br />

fpcnatchez.org/natchez-historic-photos<br />

Stone Gallery at J.N. Stone House<br />

804 Washington Street / 601.897.0315<br />

stonegallery.info<br />

Music & Nightlife<br />

111 Lounge @ The Natchez Grand Hotel<br />

111 North Broadway Street / 601.446.9994<br />

natchezgrandhotel.com<br />

Andrew’s Tavern<br />

325 Main Street / 601.445.0702<br />

Bobby J’s Lounge<br />

727 Franklin Street / 601.443.9762<br />

Bowie’s Rabbit Hole<br />

100 Main Street / 601.653.0919<br />

The Castle Restaurant & Pub<br />

84 Homochitto Street / 601.897.6300<br />

dunleithhistoricinn.com<br />

The Corner Bar<br />

115 South Canal Street / 601.442.2546<br />

Huckey’s Pool & Daiquiris<br />

175 US-61 Suite C / 601.807.4904<br />

Locust Alley<br />

511 Main Street / 601.861.1254<br />

locustalleynatchez.com<br />

Natchez Brewing Company & Kitchen<br />

207 High Street / 769.355.2225<br />

natchezbrew.com<br />

50 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Entertainment<br />

Axe-citement Axe Throwing LLC<br />

180 Sgt. Prentiss Drive, Suite 2 / 601.870.8755<br />

Bluff City Bowl<br />

285 John R. Junkin Drive / 601.442.8436<br />

The Big Muddy Inn and Blues Room<br />

411 North Commerce Street / 769.376.8045<br />

thebigmuddyinn.com<br />

Quitman Lounge at Monmouth Historic Inn<br />

1358 John A. Quitman Boulevard / 601.442.5852<br />

monmouthhistoricinn.com<br />

Smoot’s Grocery<br />

319 North Broadway Street<br />

601.431.5530 / 601.807.1161<br />

smootsnatchez.com<br />

Under-The-Hill-Saloon<br />

25 Silver Street / 601.446.8023<br />

Wardo’s<br />

309 North Broadway / 769.355.2248<br />

wardospoboys.com<br />

Natchez Little Theatre<br />

319 Linton Avenue / 601.442.2233<br />

thenatchezlittletheatre.com<br />

Natchez Pedal Cruzer<br />

601.654.6293 / natchezpedalcruzer.com<br />

Painting in Da Sip<br />

29 Seargent Prentiss Drive #4<br />

601.431.1822 / paintingndasip.com<br />

Stone House Musical B&B<br />

804 Washington Street / 601.897.0315<br />

josephstone.com<br />

Casino<br />

Magnolia Bluffs Casino<br />

7 Roth Hill Road / 601.235.0045<br />

magnoliabluffscasino.com<br />

VisitNatchez.org 51

52 VISIT NATCHEZ 2024

VisitNatchez.org 53

Disc<br />

Golf<br />

SUSAN MARQUEZ<br />

Ryan Porter can drive and putt<br />

as well as any golfer. Only Ryan plays with<br />

assorted discs instead of clubs, and the hole is a basket.<br />

As an avid disc golfer, Ryan has helped to bring more<br />

players to the game in Natchez.<br />

Now the city’s parks and recreation director, Ryan<br />

is introducing the sport to as many people as he can.<br />

“Disc golf is the second fastest growing sport after<br />

pickleball, and you aren’t as likely to get injured playing<br />

disc golf.” Ryan says the sport exploded during the<br />

pandemic because it is played outdoors, and players<br />

naturally distanced themselves from one another.<br />

Ryan was first introduced to disc golf while a<br />

freshman at Southern Miss. “It’s ideal for a student<br />

because it is a low-to-no-cost activity. But it’s great for<br />

any age. We see lots of families playing together. I like<br />

to say it is a nice walk through the park with a purpose.”<br />

A disc golf course was built at Duncan Park in 2021<br />

and completed in 2022, according to Ryan. “The Rotary<br />

Club, in partnership with the Natchez-Adams County<br />

Community Alliance, built the course. Richard Burke and<br />

Tate Hobdy were the two driving forces along with others<br />

in the community.” Ryan says that there is no green fee<br />

to play. “It is 100% free to whoever would like to play.<br />

Our mission is to provide recreational opportunities at<br />

no cost.” The course is maintained by both the City of<br />

Natchez and a newly formed organization, Natchez<br />

Disc Golf.<br />

Natchez Disc Golf formed and quickly went from<br />

a Facebook page to a regular non-profit. “We held the<br />

Bluff City Open in April 2023 and had 92 players from<br />

four states. Most of them stayed multiple nights in<br />

Natchez hotels, or bed and breakfasts, and ate in<br />

restaurants around town.”<br />

The game is simple enough. It is similar to traditional<br />

golf in that there is a tee pad and a target. There are<br />

different discs for different shots, from long-range discs<br />

to putters. “A basic set of discs can start at only $25,”<br />

Ryan says. For those who are interested in learning to<br />

play, Ryan suggests watching YouTube videos to get a<br />

general idea, and then contacting members of Natchez<br />

Disc Golf. “Anyone on the course would be happy to<br />

help get you started,” he says.<br />

A course map for the course at Duncan Park can<br />

be found on the Udisc Disc Golf app that can be<br />

downloaded to any smart phone. “Just create a park<br />

profile and a GPS walk-through is provided from basket<br />

to tee, and from tee to basket.”<br />

As the number of players continues to grow, plans<br />

are being made to establish a new disc golf course at<br />

Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park. “We are also<br />

working to establish a Natchez-to-Nashville disc golf<br />

trail, following the Natchez Trace Parkway. There are<br />

already courses every 45 minutes to an hour apart<br />

along the Trace. The idea is that if you are in any town<br />

along the trail, you can find a place nearby to play. We<br />

are looking forward to working with other clubs to<br />

make this happen.”<br />

Natchez has one retailer, Sports Center, that<br />

provides four lines of discs. The store is located at<br />

305 Sgt. Prentiss Drive.<br />

54 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

VisitNatchez.org 55

Sports & Outdoors<br />

Great Outdoors<br />

Bayou Cocodrie National Wildlife Refuge<br />

3391 Poole Road, Vidalia, LA / 601.442.6696<br />

fws.gov/refuge/bayou-cocodrie<br />

Hunting is permitted for small game and deer.<br />

A hunting permit is required. Bayou Cocodrie is<br />

open for canoeing. There are roads and walking<br />

trails open throughout the refuge. Open seven<br />

days a week from sunrise to sunset.<br />

Bluff Park<br />

101 South Broadway Street<br />

The greatest natural attraction that Natchez has<br />

to offer is the Mississippi River, and the best vantage<br />

point from which to take in her beauty and<br />

splendor is the bluff. The best time to be on the<br />

bluff overlooking the river is at sunset, because,<br />

weather permitting, and sunsets on the river can<br />

be a spectacular sight to behold.<br />

The Homochitto National Forest<br />

1200 Highway 184 East / Meadville, MS<br />

601.384.5876 / fs.usda.gov/mississippi<br />

The Homochitto National Forest is home to both<br />

leisurely and challenging bike trails. The forest<br />

offers nature trails, hiking, primitive and developed<br />

camping, swimming, horseback riding<br />

trails, shooting range, and is well known in the<br />

world of cycling. Office hours: Monday-Friday,<br />

8am-4:30pm.<br />

Giles Island<br />

449 Old River Boat Camp Road<br />

Ferriday, Louisiana / 601.431.2004<br />

Located on the Mississippi River, this 9,400-<br />

acre commercial hunting facility offers trophy<br />

whitetail deer hunting, turkey hunting, alligator<br />

hunting, fishing, trap shooting, group events<br />

and corporate meetings.<br />

Grand Village of the Natchez Indians<br />

400 Jefferson Davis Boulevard / 601.446.6502<br />

natchezgrandvillage.com<br />

This 128-acre site includes a nature trail great for<br />

wildlife observation, birding and photography<br />

and three ceremonial mounds. The museum<br />

features a seven-minute introductory film and<br />

a gift shop.<br />

Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm,<br />

Sunday 1:30pm- 5pm.<br />

Lake Concordia<br />

Lake Concordia is approximately 15 miles from<br />

Natchez in Ferriday, Louisiana, and is an oxbow<br />

lake that was once part of the Mississippi River.<br />

It is surrounded by ghostly cypress trees draped<br />

with Spanish moss.<br />

Lake St. John<br />

318.757.4303<br />

Lake St. John in Ferriday, Louisiana, is another<br />

oxbow product of the Mississippi River. The<br />

2,100 acres are lined with moss-covered cypress,<br />

endless amounts of wildlife and the sunsets on<br />

the lake are fantastic. Public access is available<br />

for $8 and $5 at two launch sites on the lake’s<br />

south side. Spokane Resort Cabin Rental is<br />

located on the highway as you arrive at Lake<br />

St. John.<br />

56 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Camping • Biking • Birding • Kayaking • Hiking/Walking • Fishing • Hunting • Canoeing<br />

Natchez State Park<br />

230-B Wickcliff Road / 601.442.2658<br />

mdwfp.com/parks-destinations/state-parks/<br />

Natchez<br />

Natchez State Park offers a boat launch, disc golf,<br />

nature trails, and excellent fishing, boasting the<br />

state’s record large-mouth bass. 50 sites for RV<br />

camping, 10 lakeside cabin rentals, and eight<br />

primitive sites, picnic area and a nature trail.<br />

Natchez Trace Parkway<br />

1.800.305.7417 / nps.gov/natr/index.htm<br />

The Natchez Trace Parkway is a designated biking<br />

route extending the 444 miles from Natchez<br />

to Nashville, Tennessee. A federal parkway<br />

operated by the National Park Service, the Trace<br />

offers not only scenic beauty, but many historic<br />

markers to lead the visitor through some of the<br />

earliest history of the old Southwest Territory.<br />

Stop in at Visit Natchez office for a map or contact<br />

info@visitnatchez.org to have one mailed to you.<br />

Natchez Trails-Museum of Streets<br />

100 North Broadway Street<br />

visitnatchez.org<br />

The Natchez Trails are a combination of city<br />

streets and walkways dotted with interpretive<br />

panels depicting the history of the area along the<br />

way. The trails run throughout the downtown area,<br />

down St. Catherine Street, and along the bluff<br />

overlooking the river. Pedestrians and cyclists can<br />

share parts of the trails, and you can wind your<br />

way down to the edge of the mighty Mississippi<br />

River. An extra day can be added to any trip to<br />

spend it walking along the Natchez Trails.<br />

To learn more about the trails, turn to page 62.<br />

St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge<br />

21 Pintail Lane / 601.442.6696<br />

fws.gov/refuge/st-catherine-creek<br />

A hiking trail is available for observing wildlife.<br />

Fishing is permitted in four lakes during designated<br />

dates. Motor vehicles are restricted to public roads<br />

and designated parking areas. Camping, open<br />

fires, and overnight parking are prohibited.<br />

Permit required for hunting and fishing.<br />

Open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.<br />

Closed on federal holidays.<br />

Recreation<br />

Beau Pre’ Country Club<br />

40 Club Drive / 601.442.5493<br />

beauprenatchez.com<br />

Beau Pre’ Country Club is a semi-private facility<br />

that includes one soft-surface and three hardsurface<br />

tennis courts, swimming pool, pro shop,<br />

bar and grill, and a championship golf course<br />

designed by Mike Young.<br />

Duncan Park Golf Course<br />

57 Duncan Park Road<br />

Clubhouse 601.442.5955<br />

Tennis Courts 601.442.1584<br />

natchezgolfclub.com<br />

Located in the heart of Natchez, Duncan Park<br />

offers biking and running trails with an 18-hole<br />

golf course and 10 tennis courts, as well as a<br />

playground and gazebo. Pickleball is the newest<br />

addition. The lighted court offers a pro shop for<br />

any necessary equipment to take your game to<br />

the next level. The newly built 18-hole disc golf<br />

course offers visitors a fun, recreational activity<br />

at no cost.<br />

Old River<br />

Old River is a popular fishing spot in Vidalia,<br />

Louisiana. If you truly appreciate raw, natural<br />

beauty and have hopes of spotting one of the<br />

many large alligators that reside there, then boating<br />

on Old River is right up your alley. Old River is in<br />

Concordia Parish, only 15.3 miles from Vidalia.<br />

VisitNatchez.org 57

58 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

VisitNatchez.org 59

Trails<br />

& Trace<br />

SUSAN MARQUEZ<br />

When it comes to the outdoors, Natchez has so<br />

much to offer. When Allen and Beth Richard, both avid<br />

cyclists, moved to Natchez 25 years ago, there were<br />

always bike shops in town. But when the last one closed<br />

a few years ago, the real need for one became apparent.<br />

“The closest bike shop was one hundred miles from<br />

here,” Allen says.<br />

“Natchez has always been a cyclists’ destination.<br />

A lot of locals don’t realize that,” he says. “Natchez sits<br />

smack dab on mile zero of the Natchez Trace, and it only<br />

gets better from here.” The 444-mile parkway originates<br />

in Natchez and winds through Mississippi, Alabama, and<br />

Tennessee with its endpoint in Nashville. The scenic road<br />

is ideal for long-distance bike rides, and the historic<br />

aspect makes it all the more interesting. “The Trace is a<br />

bucket-list trip for cyclists around the country, and even<br />

around the world. Cyclists will either start their trip here,<br />

or they end it here. Either way, we are available to<br />

provide them with whatever they may need.”<br />

The couple, who both work full-time jobs, opened<br />

Natchez Bicycle LLC within the Shops at Kress, a<br />

vendor mall located at 122 N. Commerce Street, a year<br />

ago. “While we aren’t there all the time, the shop is open<br />

in booth #111 seven days a week.” Allen says they do<br />

bike repairs at the shop to get people back on the road.<br />

“We also pack or unpack bikes for cyclists who are riding<br />

the Trace. It’s not unusual for someone to have their bike<br />

shipped to us, and when they arrive in Natchez they<br />

realize they have forgotten their helmet or something<br />

else they may need. We carry all that and more.”<br />

Allen says one day last fall there were customers in<br />

the shop from Michigan, Florida, and Canada, either<br />

starting or finishing their ride. But the shop isn’t limited<br />

to serious cyclists who are riding the Trace. “Our goal is<br />

to launch a rental platform so that visitors to the city can<br />

rent a bike during their stay.”<br />

Locals are utilizing the shop as well. “It’s so much fun<br />

when someone is surprised to find us in a multi-vendor<br />

shop. We have had a lot of people dragging their bikes<br />

out of attics and garages and bringing them into the<br />

shop to be repaired.”<br />

60 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Robin Person also appreciates what Natchez has to<br />

offer outdoors. In her fifteen years as a Natchez resident,<br />

she has become familiar with the many hiking trails in the<br />

area. Her nature education company, OutsideIN MS,<br />

caters to those who want to experience hiking and<br />

kayaking in the area. “There are a couple of good short<br />

trails in the area, and some longer ones at the state park<br />

and the Homochitto National Forest.”<br />

Robin says she enjoys small-town living. “I love living<br />

here. Natchez has so much to offer – so much more to<br />

do than I have time for.” Robin’s company provides many<br />

of the offerings, including summer camps for kids and<br />

providing professional development for educators. She<br />

also teaches classes on a wide variety of subjects from<br />

animal track ID to architecture, as well as jewelry and<br />

rosary making. She can arrange a class for any size<br />

group, from families to folks who want an ancillary event<br />

for a conference, and coordinates team-building<br />

activities and scavenger hunts.<br />

If you’re feeling really adventurous, she also runs two<br />

escape rooms.<br />

VisitNatchez.org 61

Trails & Trace<br />

The Natchez Trails<br />

The Natchez Trails leads you along a literal<br />

pathway of Natchez history where you will enjoy<br />

the architectural treasures of one of the most<br />

historically intact towns in the United States.<br />

Begin your tour at the Trails Pavilion located near the<br />

corner of Broadway and Jefferson Streets. An outdoor<br />

kiosk is there to help you get on your way and parking<br />

is also available. Street-side interpretative panels<br />

provide a view of the city as it was and offers a<br />

historical narrative of the landmarks you will encounter<br />

on your journey.<br />

On the Bluff Trail, you will see the panoramic view of<br />

the Mississippi River like that seen by Natchez Indians<br />

before the 1700s. The Nature Trail below the bluff<br />

offers a great opportunity to view the area’s flora and<br />

fauna. On the North and South Trails, you can walk<br />

the sidewalks of streets laid out by the Spanish before<br />

1800 and see the grand homes of cotton planters<br />

and modest quarters of enslaved peoples, and the<br />

bustling post-Civil War retail district. The St. Catherine<br />

Street Trail will take you through some surprising<br />

aspects of Natchez’s history from Holy Family Catholic<br />

Church, built in 1894, which was the first parish for<br />

Roman Catholic African Americans in Mississippi,<br />

to the Forks of the Road slave market site, to the<br />

Proud to Take a Stand monument, marking the site<br />

of one of the significant events of the Civil Rights<br />

movement in Natchez.<br />

1. Start your walking tour along the bluffs overlooking<br />

the Mississippi River on the Bridge of Sighs. Named<br />

after the famous “Bridge of Sighs” in Venice, Italy, the<br />

original bridge collapsed in the 1880s, with a new,<br />

modern bridge being completed in 2015.<br />

2. Fort Rosalie, founded on August 3, 1716, was<br />

created as a French colonial bulkhead that has led to<br />

the oldest permanent settlement on the lower Mississippi<br />

River - the City of Natchez, Mississippi. Natchez<br />

National Historical Park opened the Fort Rosalie<br />

archaeological site to the public for the first time on<br />

August 3, 2016 - the 300th anniversary of its completion<br />

by French oversight and Natchez Indian labor.<br />

3. On State Street between Canal and Wall Streets,<br />

sits the William Johnson House. Johnson, a free<br />

black man who worked as a barber, wrote an<br />

extensive diary describing Natchez life in the pre-<br />

Civil War days. The house is also part of the Natchez<br />

National Historical Park.<br />

4. On the corner of Pearl and Washington Streets is<br />

the home Magnolia Hall. It was built in the late 1850s<br />

and restored by the Natchez Garden Club.<br />

5. Built in 1822, Trinity Episcopal Church is the<br />

oldest church building in Natchez. Later additions to<br />

the building include stained glass windows by Louis<br />

Comfort Tiffany and John La Farge. Next to the church<br />

is Kuehnle Hall, constructed in 1886 and named for<br />

the Rev. Jospeh H. Kuehnle, rector from 1914 to 1946.<br />

6. Memorial Park, located along Rankin, Main, and<br />

Union Streets, was once the site of the city’s earlier<br />

cemetery. In 1822, most of the burials were reinterred<br />

at the current Natchez City Cemetery. The Diocese<br />

of Natchez was the first diocese in Mississippi,<br />

established in 1837. In 1842, Bishop J.M. Chance<br />

began construction of St. Mary Basilica, the only<br />

church built as a cathedral in the state.<br />

62 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Nature Trail<br />

.43 miles<br />

South Trail<br />

1.64 miles<br />

Bluff Trail<br />

.78 miles<br />

North Trail<br />

1.35 miles<br />

St. Catherine<br />

Street Trail<br />

.85 miles<br />

Junkin St.<br />

Liberty St.<br />

Monmouth St.<br />

McCabe St.<br />

Mississippi River<br />

Silver St.<br />

Roth Hill Rd.<br />

11<br />

Jefferson St.<br />

1<br />

South Canal St.<br />

2<br />

12<br />

10<br />

Franklin St.<br />

Madison St.<br />

Monroe St.<br />

Commerce St.<br />

Union St.<br />

Main St.<br />

High St.<br />

State St.<br />

Rankin St.<br />

6<br />

Orleans St.<br />

Dr. MLK Jr. St.<br />

Shaw<br />

8<br />

9<br />

3 4 5 7<br />

4th St.<br />

Arlington St.<br />

St. Catherine St.<br />

Homochitto St.<br />

Auburn Ave.<br />

East Franklin St.<br />

John A. Quitman Blvd.<br />

John A. Quitman Blvd.<br />

Winchester St.<br />

7. The Joseph Stone House was built circa 1850 by<br />

David Stanton, whose brother Frederic built Stanton Hall.<br />

This property was originally built around the original<br />

billiard hall of The Elms. Acquired in 1877 by Joseph<br />

Newman Stone, it has remained in the Stone family for<br />

140 years, now operating with a bed & breakfast cottage<br />

on the grounds, featuring family portraits and antiques.<br />

8. Dr. John Banks House, was built in the Queen Anne<br />

style about 1890 and served as headquarters for the<br />

local chapter of the NAACP during the Civil Rights<br />

Movements. This house was name after Dr. Banks who<br />

was the first African American doctor in Natchez. In April<br />

of 2023, a Freedom Trail Marker was added to the site of<br />

the house.<br />

9. At the intersection of St. Catherine and Martin Luther<br />

King, Jr. Streets stands Zion Chapel African Methodist<br />

Episcopal Church. The church has played a very<br />

important role in Natchez history as its pastor Hiram R.<br />

Revels helped organize two regiments of the U.S. Colored<br />

Troops, was elected to the United States Senate, and<br />

served as the first president of Alcorn State University.<br />

10. Stanton Hall, built in the 1850s and now owned<br />

and preserved by the Pilgrimage Garden Club, is<br />

considered by many to be the grandest of the Natchez<br />

mansions. On the grounds of Stanton Hall is the famous<br />

Carriage House Restaurant, known for its fried chicken<br />

and tiny southern-style biscuits.<br />

11. The Proud to Take a Stand monument honors<br />

those Natchez-Adams County citizens who were<br />

wrongfully incarcerated in October 1965 for standing up<br />

for basic civil and voting rights. The monument has<br />

more than 400 names engraved into the marble, and<br />

more than 150 of those are names of the young men<br />

and women forced to the Mississippi State Penitentiary<br />

at Parchman. They became known as the survivors of<br />

what is called “The Parchman Ordeal.”<br />

12. End your walking tour at the Museum of African<br />

American History & Culture. The building was once a<br />

post office built in 1904 at the corner of Main and Wall<br />

Streets. The museum traces the history of African<br />

Americans in Natchez and the South. Guided tours<br />

are available.<br />

VisitNatchez.org 63

Tours<br />

Tour Companies<br />

& Rentals<br />

Magnolia Bluffs Casino Bike Rental<br />

645 South Canal Street / 601.861.4600<br />

magnoliabluffscasino.com<br />

Experience beautiful, historic Downtown<br />

Natchez in an all-new way! Reserve your bike<br />

in advance by visiting the hotel reception desk<br />

at Magnolia Bluffs Hotel. Each bicycle rental<br />

includes a helmet, bike lock, carry-along satchel,<br />

and map of Downtown Natchez.<br />

Miss-Lou Tours<br />

317A Highland Boulevard / 601.597.6658<br />

missloutours.com<br />

A fabulous menu of tours, experiences and<br />

adventures in the heart of the Mississippi/<br />

Louisiana region with Redneck Adventures<br />

host Jim Bob Allgood. Individuals, groups,<br />

youth groups, corporations, church groups,<br />

families, hunting (deer, hog, squirrel, raccoon,<br />

duck, frogs), fishing (catfish, bass, bream),<br />

kayaking, skeet shooting, bow fishing, redneck<br />

weddings (yes, we have gator cakes), bachelor<br />

and bachelorette outings, and lots more.<br />

Natchez Cart Rentals<br />

100 State Street / 601.660.2083<br />

natchezcartrentals.com<br />

Enjoy taking our carts from any hotel or bed<br />

and breakfast in the downtown vicinity to all<br />

the attractions on your itinerary. Even locals<br />

are welcome to take carts out for a stroll and<br />

see Natchez from a different perspective.<br />

Four- and six-seater carts are available.<br />

Natchez Bicycle<br />

122 North Commerce, Booth #111<br />

601.392.2070 / 601.597.5744<br />

ride@natchezbicycle.com.<br />

For bicycle sales, repair, and rentals. Located in<br />

The Shops at Kress on Commerce Street. New<br />

bikes include Diamondback, Salsa, Niner, and<br />

Aventon e-bikes. All brands can be serviced<br />

and repaired. Rental bikes include the Aventon<br />

e-bike with step through frames for easy access.<br />

Standard Hybrid and Road bikes are also<br />

available for rentals.<br />

OutsideIN MS<br />

617 Franklin Street / 662.515.0490<br />

Outsideinms.com<br />

Are you looking for a fun outdoor activity for<br />

your family? OutsideIN MS offers educational<br />

nature boxes, guided kayaking tours, and a<br />

downtown architectural scavenger hunt!<br />

Two hunts are available, Main & Commerce<br />

Street, and Franklin & Pearl Street. OutsideIN<br />

MS also has two escape rooms called “Who<br />

Killed the Major?,” which is a historic murder<br />

mystery, and “The Search for Eugene’s Gold.”<br />

Up to six participants will find the clues, unlock<br />

boxes, and solve the mystery! By appointment<br />

only. Scavenger hunts and the escape room<br />

tickets can be purchased at online.<br />

64 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Tour Planners<br />

Downtown Karla Brown<br />

512 Franklin Street / 907.540.0001<br />

downtownkarlabrown.com<br />

Little Easy Tours<br />

220 Main Street / 601.890.2388<br />

littleeasytours.com<br />

Natchez Pilgrimage Tours<br />

211 Main Street, Suite B / 601.653.0919<br />

natchezpilgrimage.com<br />

Tours Natchez<br />

6 Glenfield Lane<br />

601.442.1002<br />

toursnatchez.com<br />

Excursions<br />

Frogmore Cotton Plantation & Gins<br />

11656 US Highway 84, Frogmore, LA<br />

(near Ferriday)<br />

318.757.2453 / frogmoreplantation.com<br />

Glenfield Candlelight Ghost Tours<br />

6 Glenfield Lane<br />

601.442.1002<br />

glenfieldplantation.com<br />

Hop-on Hop-off Bus/<br />

Natchez City Sightseeing<br />

111 North Broadway Street<br />

601-980-2439<br />

natchez.com/tours/natchez-city-sightseeing<br />

Natchez Ghost Tours<br />

225.772.0525<br />

natchezghosttour.com<br />

Natchez Heritage School of Cooking<br />

408 North Martin Luther King Jr. Street<br />

601.807.1008<br />

Old South Winery<br />

65 South Concord Avenue / 601.445.9924<br />

oldsouthwinery.com<br />

Cemeteries<br />

Natchez City Cemetery<br />

2 Cemetery Road /601.445.5051<br />

thenatchezcemetery.com<br />

Natchez National Cemetery<br />

41 Cemetery Road /601.445.4981<br />

cem.va.gov/cems/nchp/natchez.asp<br />

Open Air Tours<br />

640 South Canal Street / 601.334.8916<br />

openairtoursntz.com<br />

Regina’s Biscuits 101<br />

621 Franklin Street / 601.392.1756<br />

reginaskitchen.com<br />

Rev’s Country Tours<br />

640 South Canal Street / 601.807.5337<br />

revscountrytours.com<br />

Southern Carriage Tours<br />

Corner of Canal and State Streets / 601.807.9086<br />

Watkins Street Cemetery<br />

1300 Block Watkins Street<br />

VisitNatchez.org 65

Weddings<br />

Bridal<br />

Boutique<br />

Magnolia Mariée<br />

200 Main Street<br />

601.446.6400<br />

magnoliamariee.com<br />

Cakes &<br />

Caterers<br />

Butter Cakery<br />

404 Main Street<br />

601.571.7042<br />

buttercakery.com<br />

Buttercup Bakery<br />

(Inside Ja’Nel’s Flowers & Gifts)<br />

483 John R. Junkin Drive<br />

601.442.0247<br />

Dale’s Catering<br />

601.431.0453<br />

Natchez Grazing Company<br />

& Olive Market<br />

636 Franklin Street<br />

601.920.1790<br />

natchezolivemarket.com<br />

Silver Spoon Catering<br />

109 North Pearl Street<br />

601.445.9900<br />

slickricksfoods.com<br />

Southern Style Restaurant<br />

& Catering<br />

227 Devereaux Drive<br />

601.442.3334<br />

Florists<br />

The Flower Station<br />

387 John R. Junkin Drive<br />

601.442.7224<br />

theflowerstationms.com<br />

Ja’Nel’s Flowers & Gifts<br />

483 John R. Junkin Drive<br />

601.442.0247<br />

Moreton’s Flowerland<br />

629 Franklin Street<br />

601.442.4321<br />

moretonsflowerland.com<br />

Hal Garner at Nest<br />

505 Franklin Street<br />

601.446.3011<br />

johngradyburns.com<br />

“O” So Pretty Flowers<br />

184 Seargent Prentiss Drive<br />

Suite C<br />

601.446.6086<br />

osoprettyflowers.com<br />

Rental<br />

Companies<br />

King of Hearts<br />

487 John R. Junkin Drive<br />

601.446.8889<br />

king-of-hearts.com<br />

Les Chic Events<br />

28 East Franklin Street<br />

601.597.3009<br />

leschicevents.com<br />

2J Services, LLC<br />

601.446.3484<br />

601.597.8452<br />

66 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

Spas &Salons<br />

Anruss & Co. Salon & Spa<br />

212 North Commerce Street<br />

601.445.2007<br />

Arabella Massage Therapy<br />

113 Jefferson Davis Boulevard<br />

601.442.2871<br />

arabellamassage.com<br />

Clary Sage Salon<br />

703 Franklin Street<br />

601.807.5723<br />

Hello, Gorgeous<br />

111 North Pearl Street<br />

601.445.4383<br />

Laird’s Barber & Style Center<br />

166 East Franklin Street<br />

601.442.7271<br />

Reverie Natchez<br />

403 Main Street<br />

601.330.5474<br />

Transportation<br />

1st Class Limo<br />

& Transportation Service<br />

601.870.3776<br />

Downtown Karla Brown<br />

512 Franklin Street<br />

907.540.0001<br />

downtownkarlabrown.com<br />

Luxury Livery<br />

504.232.0221<br />

Natchez-Adams County Airport<br />

111 Airport Road<br />

601.442.2.3142<br />

Natchez Transit System<br />

127 Wood Avenue<br />

601.445.7568<br />

Southern Carriage Tours<br />

601.807.9086<br />

The Mane Event<br />

102 Homochitto Street<br />

601.445.7300<br />

VisitNatchez.org 67

Weddings<br />

Photography<br />

& Videography<br />

Anne McDaniel Photography<br />

114 Seargent Prentiss Drive<br />

601.442.1269<br />

annemcdanielphotography.com<br />

Chelsea Hill Photography<br />

318.334.5030<br />

chelseahillphotography.com<br />

Emma Hogue Photography<br />

601.870.5559<br />

Nicole Kossum Photography<br />

601.493.4111<br />

Oakwood Media by Kaelin Daye<br />

601.493.7555<br />

Taylor Cooley Photography<br />

631 Franklin Street<br />

318.717.3131<br />

taylorcooleyphotography.com<br />

TG McCary Photography<br />

1207 Main Street<br />

601.446.5670<br />

68 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

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USE THE HASHTAG<br />

#VISITNATCHEZ<br />

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VisitNatchez.org 69

ADVERTISER SPOTLIGHT<br />

Monmouth Historic Inn<br />

Where romance loves history AUDREY JAMES<br />

Within the great halls and expansive grounds of<br />

Monmouth Historic Inn is a history rich in stories of<br />

bygone eras. Beyond the flicker of gas lights and<br />

heavy brocade drapes are the tales of tragedy and<br />

triumph, romance, antebellum intrigue, Civil War, and<br />

great social change. Monmouth’s evolution from a<br />

grand antebellum estate to the renowned small luxury<br />

hotel of today was not always a tale of grandeur. Each<br />

episode of its history is filled with the men and women<br />

who lived and worked on the estate, including its<br />

enslaved population and their descendants, as well as<br />

the white family members who dwelled within its halls<br />

in those days not so long ago.<br />

Monmouth’s early years begin in 1818, when Natchez<br />

Postmaster John Hankinson built Monmouth just within<br />

the Natchez city limits. Although not quite the mansion<br />

that it would later become, it was an impressive estate.<br />

Hankinson named the estate after his birthplace in<br />

Monmouth, New Jersey. As hard times fell on Hankinson,<br />

the house was eventually advertised for sale in the<br />

Mississippi Republic on the 17th of November, 1824.<br />

Hankinson never lived to see the sale, passing away<br />

with yellow fever within that same time period.<br />

In March 1826, John Anthony Quitman purchased<br />

Monmouth, a two-story Federal-style brick mansion<br />

situated on thirty-one acres, for $12,000. Quitman and<br />

his wife, Eliza Turner, a woman from one of Natchez’s<br />

most prominent families, made significant changes to<br />

Monmouth that radically altered the interior and exterior<br />

appearance.<br />

Like their father, Quitman’s sons and daughters<br />

were avid supporters of slavery and state’s rights, all<br />

promoting the Southern way of life. As was typical for<br />

the era and of men of his stature, Quitman owned<br />

more than four hundred slaves divided between<br />

Monmouth and four plantations located in Louisiana<br />

and Mississippi. While some slaves worked in the main<br />

70 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

house as domestic servants, the vast majority of the<br />

Quitman slaves worked on the family’s rural plantations<br />

in the backbreaking labor of cotton and sugar production.<br />

Quitman believed that the institution of slavery was<br />

necessary for the well-being of the enslaved. Evidence<br />

suggests that the Quitman family had no understanding<br />

of what the enslaved thought about their plight. John<br />

Anthony Quitman died at Monmouth on July 17, 1858.<br />

He was buried at Monmouth after an impressive funeral,<br />

and later transferred to the Natchez City Cemetery.<br />

The City of Natchez felt the impact of the Civil War<br />

beginning in May 1862 when Union war ships sailed up<br />

the Mississippi River to Natchez. Monmouth’s enslaved<br />

men and women fled at the first sign of Union troops.<br />

Before the war ended, soldiers of the 58th United States<br />

Colored Infantry encamped on the estate grounds.<br />

Impoverished by the Civil War, the Quitmans sold household<br />

possessions to survive. The daughters agreed, to<br />

their utter humiliation, to pledge their loyalty to the United<br />

States. Years later, monetary damages were paid by the<br />

United States government to the Quitman descendants.<br />

Monmouth was sold out of the Quitman family in 1919.<br />

After several brief changes in ownership, Monmouth<br />

was sold to Natchez widow Annie Gwin in 1922. It<br />

remained in her family for more than half a century.<br />

Efforts to revitalize Natchez’s failing economy in the<br />

1930s saw the advent of a newly implemented tourism<br />

industry which centered on the opening of the town’s<br />

antebellum mansions. Monmouth became a curiosity–<br />

a haunting reminder of days past.<br />

The once grand estate sat neglected until a couple<br />

from California, Ron and Lani Rich, chanced upon<br />

Monmouth while traveling to Natchez in 1977. The Riches<br />

initiated restoration plans for Monmouth even before the<br />

purchase was finalized. They encouraged the support of<br />

the Natchez community by using local contractors and<br />

businesses whenever possible. The grounds and gardens<br />

were all restored with plants and flowers common to the<br />

original garden. Inside the house, it was discovered that<br />

many furnishings were original Quitman pieces. With<br />

creative research and a sequence of lucky breaks, other<br />

original Quitman antique pieces have been restored to<br />

their rightful place.<br />

Monmouth Historic Inn is presently owned by<br />

Nancy and Warren Reuther of New Orleans, Louisiana.<br />

The Reuther’s purchased Monmouth Historic Inn from<br />

United Mississippi Bank in Natchez on March 20, 2012<br />

Monmouth Historic Inn is fully restored, both<br />

aesthetically and historically, thanks to Nancy Reuther’s<br />

interest in historic properties. Upon entering the main<br />

house, the grand hallway transports one to another era.<br />

Fresh cut flowers and Zubar wallpaper grace the period<br />

drapes surrounded by intricately carved mahogany and<br />

rosewood furniture. The gardens are as exquisite as they<br />

were in the time of Quitman. This small luxury hotel<br />

allows visitors and guests the opportunity to step back<br />

into a time romanticized by such books and films as<br />

Gone with the Wind and So Red the Rose, without<br />

leaving the comforts and amenities of a luxury hotel.<br />

Monmouth’s beauty and elegance have earned it a<br />

four-diamond rating from AAA for twenty consecutive<br />

years. Restaurant 1818 is TripAdvisor’s number one<br />

restaurant in Natchez for fine dining. Monmouth Historic<br />

Inn is placed on the Conde Nast’s Gold List and Travel +<br />

Leisure’s Top 500 Hotels of the World. Glamour magazine<br />

and USA Today have cited the historic antebellum inn as<br />

one of the ten most romantic places in America. Today,<br />

Monmouth Historic Inn continues to be in the forefront of<br />

Natchez hotel community involvement, its dedication to<br />

Natchez, and its unfailing legacy.<br />

VisitNatchez.org 71

Frankie's On<br />

Main<br />

Located in the heart of downtown, Frankie’s On<br />

Main resides in the historic Britton & Koontz bank<br />

building on Main Street. Stop by for a craft<br />

cocktail and a few small plates - or maybe you’ll<br />

decide on the steak, lamb, or fish from our pecan<br />

wood grill.<br />

422 main street<br />

Natchez, MS<br />

(601)861-6713<br />

@frankiesonmain422<br />

72 2024 VISIT NATCHEZ

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