There are a lot of historic places in the world, some better known than others. The Waverly Mansion outside West Point, Mississippi is no exception. For this historic mansion and plantation gained national historic status in 1973. While this is the case, only more recently has this National Historic Landmark been offering tours.
As far as the structure goes, many believe the interior and exterior to be amazing works of art. Beginning with the octagonal rotunda, the layout and design combine various elements. Some of which include technology, history and ornamental aspects. Built in the tradition of Jefferson, the entire property boasts the ultimate when it comes to early American architecture. As a result, the property received national historic status in 1973.
With the stairs cantilevering four stories, it is also a rather utilitarian design. In fact, the rotunda, stairway, cupola and hallway elements are considered unique. Each of these features can be seen first hand by participating in one of the many ongoing tours of the home. While generally open to the public during specific hours, private tours are also available upon request.
George Hampton Young, the original owner passed down the home and plantation to family members in the late 1800s. Up until that time, the plantation had been self-sufficient with family members gathering, growing and creating all the necessities of home. Some of these included bandages, energy, fruits, vegetables, meats, clothing and home decor.
While this is the case, the property fell into major disrepair beginning in 1913. That is, up until 1962, when the Robert Snow family put a great deal of monetary support into restoring the old mansion and plantation. While difficult, the Snow family has pretty much restored the mansion to its original glory.
West Point is a rather small town covering only 20 square miles. In addition, the water supply is quite limited, so many of those still operating plantations must own wells or order water from outside sources. Most often, these owners will stock high capacity water tanks or install expensive irrigation systems so as to have enough water to grow produce and livestock.
As with all areas, the town and surrounding area have good and bad elements when it comes to history. Though, as Mississippi is one of the original slave states, there is often more dark than light when it comes to this area. As such, those traveling with children may want to share some stories of past and present before visiting the plantation. For older students, watching films like Roots and 12 Years A Slave can often provide a great deal of insight into what many call, the darkest hours of American history.
The Prairie Arts festival also boasts amusement park rides, music and shopping. As a result, it is one of the favorite family friendly events held each in the state. For the more adventurous, there is also a 5K mile run along with a car show. While not exactly as big or as exciting as a county or State fair, the festival still draws a large crowd each year. When visiting the area during this time of year, it is often good to bring insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat and plan on wearing long sleeves when venturing near any accumulated or stagnant water sources.
As far as the structure goes, many believe the interior and exterior to be amazing works of art. Beginning with the octagonal rotunda, the layout and design combine various elements. Some of which include technology, history and ornamental aspects. Built in the tradition of Jefferson, the entire property boasts the ultimate when it comes to early American architecture. As a result, the property received national historic status in 1973.
With the stairs cantilevering four stories, it is also a rather utilitarian design. In fact, the rotunda, stairway, cupola and hallway elements are considered unique. Each of these features can be seen first hand by participating in one of the many ongoing tours of the home. While generally open to the public during specific hours, private tours are also available upon request.
George Hampton Young, the original owner passed down the home and plantation to family members in the late 1800s. Up until that time, the plantation had been self-sufficient with family members gathering, growing and creating all the necessities of home. Some of these included bandages, energy, fruits, vegetables, meats, clothing and home decor.
While this is the case, the property fell into major disrepair beginning in 1913. That is, up until 1962, when the Robert Snow family put a great deal of monetary support into restoring the old mansion and plantation. While difficult, the Snow family has pretty much restored the mansion to its original glory.
West Point is a rather small town covering only 20 square miles. In addition, the water supply is quite limited, so many of those still operating plantations must own wells or order water from outside sources. Most often, these owners will stock high capacity water tanks or install expensive irrigation systems so as to have enough water to grow produce and livestock.
As with all areas, the town and surrounding area have good and bad elements when it comes to history. Though, as Mississippi is one of the original slave states, there is often more dark than light when it comes to this area. As such, those traveling with children may want to share some stories of past and present before visiting the plantation. For older students, watching films like Roots and 12 Years A Slave can often provide a great deal of insight into what many call, the darkest hours of American history.
The Prairie Arts festival also boasts amusement park rides, music and shopping. As a result, it is one of the favorite family friendly events held each in the state. For the more adventurous, there is also a 5K mile run along with a car show. While not exactly as big or as exciting as a county or State fair, the festival still draws a large crowd each year. When visiting the area during this time of year, it is often good to bring insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat and plan on wearing long sleeves when venturing near any accumulated or stagnant water sources.
About the Author:
The historic Waverly mansion is the perfect wedding venue in Maryland. To view the online information and read client testimonials, visit the official website at http://historicwaverlymansion.com.
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