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House On Ellicott's Hill: A Window into Natchez's Past

Discover Natchez's oldest building, the House On Ellicott's Hill, a historic landmark showcasing early American life and architecture in the Mississippi Territory.

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The House On Ellicott's Hill, built in 1798, is the oldest surviving building in Natchez, Mississippi, showcasing early American and French Colonial architectural influences. Once owned by merchant James Moore, this historic house museum offers a glimpse into the late 18th and early 19th-century life in the Mississippi Territory.

A brief summary to House On Ellicott's Hill

Local tips

  • Check the Natchez Garden Club website for seasonal tour schedules and special events.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces and exploring the grounds.
  • Allow at least one hour for a comprehensive tour of the house and its history.
  • Parking is available on top of the hill; use the entrance at the intersection of Jefferson and Wall Streets.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Natchez, the House On Ellicott's Hill is a short walk north on Canal Street. From the Natchez Visitor Center on Canal Street, walk approximately 0.3 miles north. The house will be on your left, set atop Ellicott's Hill, with the entrance and parking area accessible from Jefferson Street.

  • Driving

    From Highway 61, follow Main Street into downtown Natchez. Turn left onto Canal Street and proceed north. Turn left onto Jefferson Street, then turn left again onto Wall Street to access the parking area at the top of Ellicott's Hill, adjacent to the house. Parking is free.

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Discover more about House On Ellicott's Hill

The House On Ellicott's Hill, also known as Connelly's Tavern, stands as a testament to Natchez's rich history and cultural crossroads. Constructed between 1798 and 1801, the house is the oldest surviving building in Natchez from its early territorial period. Merchant James Moore built the house on land acquired in 1797, and it soon became a significant landmark in the burgeoning town. The house is named for Major Andrew Ellicott, who raised the first American flag in Mississippi on this very hill in 1797, signaling the transition from Spanish rule. Its architecture reflects a blend of Anglo-American and French Colonial styles, featuring a distinctive roof shape with surrounding shed roofs attached high on a central gable. The two-story façade includes a raised brick basement, while the rear elevation appears as a single story due to the hillside construction. Over the years, the House On Ellicott's Hill has served many purposes, including a private academy for young men and housing for cotton mill workers. The Natchez Garden Club purchased the dilapidated home in 1934 and began restoring it. Today, the house operates as a museum, offering guided tours that explore its history, architecture, and the lives of those who once lived within its walls. Visitors can admire the period furnishings, intricate millwork, and the unique dry moat that provides light and ventilation to the basement rooms.

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