Longwood: Natchez's Unfinished Masterpiece

Longwood, an iconic landmark in Natchez, Mississippi, presents a unique glimpse into the past. This majestic, six-story, octagonal mansion, also known as Nutt's Folly, stands as the largest of its kind in the United States. Designed in 1859 by Philadelphia architect Samuel Sloan for Dr. Haller Nutt, a wealthy cotton planter, Longwood was envisioned as the epitome of Southern opulence. Construction commenced in 1860 but came to an abrupt halt in 1861 with the onset of the Civil War. The craftsmen, hailing from the North, ceased their work, leaving behind their tools, and returned home. Consequently, only the exterior and the basement level, comprising nine of the planned 32 rooms, were completed. The grand vision of 32 rooms, 26 fireplaces, 115 doors and a total of 30,000 square feet of living space remained unrealized. The unfinished upper floors offer a stark contrast to the completed lower level, providing a poignant reminder of the war's impact. Despite its incomplete state, Longwood has become one of Natchez's most popular attractions. Visitors can explore the furnished rooms of the basement, gaining insight into the lifestyle of the Nutt family. The property was deeded to the Pilgrimage Garden Club in 1970 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1971. Longwood has also been featured in television shows and is a Mississippi Landmark and an historic site on the Civil War Discovery Trail.