Historic Bellevue Home, Natchez, Mississippi, 1800

This vintage photograph features a historic home located in Natchez, Adams County, Mississippi. Originally known as Bellevue, the residence was constructed around 1800 by the David Williams family. In 1808, Winthrop Sargent, the first governor of Mississippi, acquired the property from the Williams family. An unusual architectural feature of this home is the dry moat surrounding the basement, which was once enclosed with iron pickets.

The image is part of the Carnegie Survey of the Architecture of the South, a project aimed at documenting significant buildings in the region. The photograph captures the intricate details of the houses architecture, including its balconies, porches, stairways, and columns, showcasing the craftsmanship of the early 19th century.

This photograph serves as a valuable historical record, highlighting the architectural heritage of Mississippi and the significance of Natchez in the context of American history. The image was acquired from the estate of Frances Benjamin Johnston in 1953.