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Arlington: A Haunting Reminder of Natchez's Past

Explore the haunting beauty of Arlington, a decaying antebellum mansion in Natchez, Mississippi, and a reminder of the Old South's opulent past.

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Arlington, a once-grand Federal-style mansion in Natchez, Mississippi, stands as a haunting reminder of the antebellum South. Built in the early 19th century, this historic landmark is now a decaying shell, a testament to time and neglect, yet still evokes a sense of its former grandeur.

A brief summary to Arlington (Natchez, Mississippi)

  • 1320 John A Quitman Blvd, Natchez, Mississippi, 39120, US
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Local tips

  • Walk around the perimeter to view the mansion's exterior, but be aware that the structure is unstable and entering is not advised.
  • Bring your camera to capture the haunting beauty of the mansion and its grounds.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for the most pleasant weather to explore the grounds.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from Natchez National Historical Park, head southeast on the main road towards John A Quitman Blvd. Continue straight for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with John A Quitman Blvd. Turn right onto John A Quitman Blvd, and continue for approximately 1 mile. Arlington will be on your left at 1320 John A Quitman Blvd, Natchez, MS 39120. Parking is available on-site. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Natchez Transit System (NTS) provides public transportation in Natchez. From downtown Natchez, check the local bus schedule for routes that service the area near John A Quitman Blvd. Board a bus that heads towards downtown Natchez and request to be dropped off near the intersection of John A Quitman Blvd. From there, it's a short walk of about 0.3 miles to Arlington. Head north on John A Quitman Blvd, and you will see the Arlington mansion on your right at 1320 John A Quitman Blvd. Contact Natchez Transit at 601-445-7568 to schedule a ride. The cost varies. The agency operates from 4 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Weekend hours are 5 a.m.until 4 p.m. with abbreviated hours on Sunday.

  • Walking

    If you are already within walking distance in Natchez, head north on John A Quitman Blvd. Continue for approximately 0.3 miles. Arlington will be on your right at 1320 John A Quitman Blvd.

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Discover more about Arlington (Natchez, Mississippi)

Arlington, located in Natchez, Mississippi, is a historic Federal-style mansion that whispers tales of a bygone era. Constructed between 1816 and 1821, possibly designed by John Hampton White for his wife, Jane Surget White, or perhaps even by Jane's father, Pierre Surget, the mansion quickly became a symbol of wealth and status in the thriving river town. Arlington is considered one of the four important Federal Style villas that set a precedent for later antebellum houses in the Natchez area. The house is a large two-story red brick structure with a partial basement. Marble features can be found throughout the house including the front porch, window trim, and porch steps. The floor plan is composed of a grand central hall opening from front to back, flanked by two rooms on each side, with a staircase located in a secondary hall between two of the rooms. This same floor plan is also seen at Rosalie and Melrose, among others. A two-story brick kitchen and servants' quarters with an attached garage are located at the rear of the house. Over the years, Arlington passed through several hands, each leaving their mark on the estate. The Surget family's French antiques and Old Master artworks were passed from owner to owner, while Judge Samuel Stillman Boyd added a formidable collection of books to the house. In 1973, Arlington was added to the National Register of Historic Places, and in 1974, it was designated a National Historic Landmark. Despite its historical significance, tragedy struck Arlington. A devastating fire in September 2002 destroyed the roof and much of the upper floor. Today, the house remains abandoned, a hollow shell of its former self. Although it is in a state of disrepair, visitors can still walk around the grounds and imagine the grandeur that once was.

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