Longwood, Natchez Travel Guide

4.5 (644)

Explore Longwood, America's largest octagonal mansion in Natchez, MS, where history and architectural grandeur intertwine in an unfinished masterpiece.

Longwood, also known as Nutt's Folly, is the largest octagonal house in the United States, located in Natchez, Mississippi. Designed in 1859 by Samuel Sloan, construction halted in 1861 due to the Civil War, leaving its interior unfinished. Today, it stands as a testament to antebellum ambition and a unique glimpse into a bygone era.

A brief summary to Longwood

140 Lower Woodville Rd, Natchez, Mississippi, 39120, US
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Longwood.

Visit during the non-summer months for cooler temperatures and to avoid peak tourist season.
Wear comfortable shoes to explore the grounds and unfinished interior.
Check the Natchez Pilgrimage Tours website for tour schedules and special events.
Consider purchasing a multi-house package to save money if you plan to visit other historic homes in Natchez.
Bring a camera to capture the unique architecture and beautiful gardens.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Natchez National Historical Park

Arlington (Natchez, Mississippi)

The Towers of Natchez

Historic Auburn

Melrose

Explore Longwood on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Longwood, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Longwood is located at 140 Lower Woodville Rd, Natchez, MS 39120. From downtown Natchez, head south on Main Street, then turn left onto Lower Woodville Road. Continue for approximately 1.5 miles; Longwood will be on your right. Free parking is available on-site.
Public Transportation

While Natchez has a public transit system, Natchez Transit, it may require pre-arranged scheduling. From the Natchez Bus Terminal on Canal Street, a taxi or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) is the most direct option to Longwood, approximately 3 miles away, costing around $10-$15. Call Rock n Roll Taxi Service at (601) 446-3200.

Discover more about Longwood

Longwood, an iconic Natchez landmark, presents a captivating blend of architectural grandeur and historical intrigue. Designed by Philadelphia architect Samuel Sloan in 1859 for cotton planter Dr. Haller Nutt and his wife Julia, this six-story octagonal mansion was envisioned as an 'Oriental Villa' showcasing opulence and refinement.Construction commenced in 1860 but came to an abrupt halt in 1861 with the onset of the Civil War. As tensions escalated, craftsmen from the Northeast abandoned their tools and fled home, leaving the interior largely unfinished. Dr. Nutt's dream was never fully realized, and he died in 1864. The exterior, however, was mostly complete, boasting a distinctive Byzantine onion-shaped dome and intricate brickwork.Today, visitors can explore the finished basement level, which features nine rooms furnished with original pieces and period décor, offering a glimpse into the Nutt family's life. The unfinished upper floors provide a stark contrast, showcasing the structural elements and the ambitious plans that were never completed. Longwood is a National Historic Landmark and a popular attraction, offering tours that delve into its history, architecture, and the stories of those who lived within its walls. The grounds feature lush gardens and towering trees, inviting leisurely strolls and providing stunning photography opportunities.