Nellie's: A Glimpse into Natchez's Notorious Past

Explore the controversial legacy of Nellie Jackson's brothel, a Natchez landmark offering a glimpse into the city's complex past and its most notorious madam.

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Nellie's, located on 416 N Rankin St in Natchez, Mississippi, was the long-time brothel operated by Nellie Jackson from 1930 until her death in 1990. This historical landmark offers a unique, albeit controversial, look into the city's past, showcasing the story of a woman who became a local legend. Though the building is currently undergoing restoration, its legacy continues to intrigue visitors.

A brief summary to Nellie's

416 N Rankin St, Natchez, Mississippi, 39120, US

Local tips

View Nellie's from the street to appreciate its historical significance, keeping in mind it is a private residence undergoing restoration.
Learn more about Nellie Jackson's life and legacy through local historical resources and documentaries like 'Mississippi Madam'.
Consider visiting other historical sites in Natchez to gain a broader understanding of the city's rich and complex history.

Getting There

Walking

Nellie's is located a few blocks from downtown Natchez. From the Natchez Grand Hotel on Broadway Street, walk north on NMLK Jr. Street, then turn right onto Main Street. Turn left onto N Rankin Street. Nellie's will be on your right. The walk is approximately 0.3 miles and should take about 5-10 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking.
Public Transport

The Natchez Transit System provides public transportation within the city. From areas outside of walking distance, you can take the Natchez Transit to a stop near downtown and walk the remaining distance to Nellie's. A single ride fare is around $1.25. Call 601-445-7568 to schedule a ride.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Natchez. A short taxi ride from downtown to Nellie's should cost approximately $5-$10, depending on the company and distance.

Discover more about Nellie's

Nellie's, situated at 416 N Rankin St in Natchez, Mississippi, stands as a silent witness to a colorful and complex history. For 60 years, from 1930 to 1990, this unassuming house was the base of operations for Nellie Jackson, a black woman who ran a successful brothel, becoming a prominent figure in a segregated society. Born into poverty in 1902, Nellie Jackson moved to Natchez and, after a divorce, began her entrepreneurial journey in the city's red-light district known as Under-the-Hill. She purchased the house on Rankin Street and transformed it into a boarding house that became one of the most popular brothels in the Deep South. Despite the illicit nature of her business, Nellie was known for her generosity and community support, donating to charities, helping those in financial need, and even assisting the FBI in their investigations of the Ku Klux Klan. Nellie's establishment catered primarily to white men, a decision made to protect her business and the women working for her during a time of racial tension. However, Nellie herself was a respected figure in the black community, known for bailing out civil rights protestors and funding food banks. Her ability to navigate the complexities of the Jim Crow South made her a unique and powerful figure in Natchez. Today, Nellie's house is a historical landmark, though it is not currently open for tours. The building is under restoration, with efforts being made to stabilize the structure and preserve its history. Visitors can view the house from the outside and reflect on the life and legacy of Nellie Jackson, the Mississippi Madam who defied societal norms and left an indelible mark on the city of Natchez.