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House on Ellicott's Hill: Natchez's Oldest Territorial Home

Step back in time at Natchez's oldest territorial home, a beautifully preserved example of early Federal architecture and Mississippi history.

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The House on Ellicott's Hill, built in 1798, stands as Natchez's oldest surviving building from its territorial period. This National Historic Landmark offers a glimpse into the early Federal style and the history of 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 before visiting.
  • Parking is available on top of the hill; enter from Jefferson Street across from the City Auditorium.
  • Allow at least 45 minutes for a comprehensive tour of the house and grounds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Natchez Visitor Center at 640 S Canal St, head north on Canal Street. The House on Ellicott's Hill will be on your left, approximately a 10-minute walk. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Driving

    From downtown Natchez, take Jefferson Street towards the City Auditorium. Turn onto Wall Street, then left onto N Canal Street. The House on Ellicott's Hill will be on your right. Parking is available on top of the hill, with the entrance on Jefferson Street across from the City Auditorium. 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 or the James Moore House, is a significant historical landmark in Natchez, Mississippi. Constructed between 1798 and 1801, it is the oldest building in Natchez from the Mississippi Territory period and is a prime example of early Federal-style architecture. The house is named for Andrew Ellicott, who raised the first American flag in Natchez on this hill in 1797, marking a shift from Spanish rule. Built for wealthy merchant-planter James Moore, the house features a distinctive design adapted to the local climate and terrain. Its raised brick basement and upper wood-framed main floor, along with West Indies-inspired galleries, offer commanding views of the Mississippi River. A unique dry moat at the rear provides light and ventilation to the basement. Over the years, the House on Ellicott's Hill has served various purposes, including a residence, a boys’ high school, and housing for cotton mill workers. In 1934, the Natchez Garden Club purchased the dilapidated building and began restoration efforts, setting a precedent for historic preservation in Mississippi. Today, the House on Ellicott's Hill is a museum that showcases the charm and history of the early Mississippi Territory. Visitors can explore the restored rooms, admire the period furnishings, and learn about the lives of the people who shaped Natchez. The house is open for tours seasonally and by appointment.

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