We picked up the Trace just SW of Jackson so we didn't drive the whole length. Next time we will. Other then the asphalt road I could easily imagine what it was like for the early settlers. Words can not describe it. I'm sure that if you look on youtube you will be able to find videos galore that have been taken along the route. It is nature at its best. This time of year we caught the end of the fall color change. Now Door County was always one of my favorite drives in the fall but this was breathtaking. So if you get the chance, get on down the road and drive the Trace. You won't regret it.
Once you get to Natchez your first stop has to be the visitors center. This place was unbelievable. They have a video about the history of the area, free coffee or water, and several people who are there to tell you everything you want to know about the area. You can even buy advance tickets for the antebellum houses that have tours.
After that we walked around the downtown area a little and visited the Johnson House. Owned by a free black man who had slaves of his own. (the things you learn) That night we had dinner at the "Pig Out". BBQ of course. Not bad at all and a great atmosphere. The next day we took a carriage ride through the downtown area. We had Cecil and his horse Mac. As we took a leisurely ride Cecil gave us a history lesson of the area. He even pointed out the grave of a three legged cat that the town adopted. Another great way to get to know the area.
Our home in Natchez which was again, right on the river. The Mississippi this time. 
Down on the river front. 
The casino. A common theme along the Mississippi. 
The bridge between Vidalia LA and Natchez MS. 
Lynn wanting to start her Nutcracker collection again. I suppose it could live in the back seat of the truck.
Early morning on the Mississippi with a beautiful fog/mist that rolled in. 
The town was setting up for Christmas with lights and decorations. The town Christmas tree was right in the middle of an intersection. No it's not a round-a-bout, but cars have to drive around it. For lunch that day we went to the Magnolia Grill in the section of town know as Natchez Under the Hill. This is where the River Boats dock and where the two casinos are. Great food and a great view of the Mississippi.We then visited Stanton Hall built in 1857. I don't have any photos of the inside because it is not allowed and you know me, I always follow the rules. It is currently owned by the "Pilgrimage Garden Club" and is considered to be the grandest of the Natchez mansions.
\A little side story. I asked the ladies at the reception desk if it was hard to get into the "Club". The one woman said, "Oh not at all. Anyone can join. I'm a member.(The other woman's eyes shot open), I got the membership as a wedding present". The other woman didn't say anything. It turned out she was our tour guide. Later on the tour when no one else was around she confirmed my suspicions. It was not easy to get in. You have to be recommended by a member and then seconded by another member. It is a good old girls club of the south. Back to the blog.
The outside is beautiful but the inside was unbelievable. Especially the living room. All the ceilings were 18' high with carved molding and appliques around the chandeliers. The doors were huge not only in height but also in width. (Hoop skirts ya know).
At this point we had to cut our visit to Natchez short. I wasn't feeling all that well and we decided it would be a good idea to go to New Orleans where they have one on the top 25 hospitals in the country. To make a long story short I was in for 2 days and they eliminated things that could kills me. Which when you think about it is good to know. So now we are in New Orleans and we are enjoying ourselves. See you down the road.
Those houses were fabulous. Too bad you had to leave, but glad you took care of yourself and are feeling better. Have a wonderful holiday.....were will you be??????
ReplyDeletePatti B.