There’s No House In The Nation Like Longwood In Mississippi

It’s no secret that Mississippi is home to some impressive antebellum mansions. But did you know it’s where you’ll find one of the nation’s most unique homes? It’s true. Longwood in Mississippi is touted as America’s largest octagonal house. The massive mansion is also likely to be the most intriguing since a majority of the home remains unfinished. Read on to learn more about this notorious abode and make sure to watch the video at the end of the article.

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Longwood is located in Natchez, which isn’t surprising since Natchez is most known for the stately antebellum mansions that fill it.

However, of all the historic homes in Natchez, none quite compare to Longwood. Not only unique, but the massive mansion is likely one of the most opulent.

In fact, it’s the home’s opulence that led to historians dubbing it Nutt’s Folly. The name came about because the palatial estate was dreamed up by Haller Nutt, a cotton magnate.

Aiming to outdo his cotton colleagues, Nutt’s plans for Longwood included six levels, 32 rooms, and an exotic Asian-inspired dome.

Furthermore, each bedroom would open to its own balcony, ensuring great views from every corner of the home.

Unfortunately for Nutt, he lost his money in the Civil War and subsequently died of pneumonia during Longwood’s construction.

Even more unfortunate, construction on a majority of the home was never completed. The men tasked with building Longwood were from Philadelphia, and once the war broke out, they ceased work on the home to head back north.

Following the war, construction on the home never resumed due to a lack of labor and funds. Though the Nutt family resided in the home after the war, only the exterior and basement levels were completed.

Longwood is open daily for tours. During the tour, a guide will tell you all about the home’s history. You’ll even get to see the home’s original plans.

Watch the video below to learn more about Longwood in Mississippi.

For more information on Longwood, call (601) 446-6631. You can also visit the Natchez Pilgrimage Tours website or Facebook page.

So, did you know about Longwood? Ever toured it? If so, what'd you think? Know of another unique house in the Magnolia State? Tell us in the comments section.

This isn't the only unique site in Mississippi. Read about another here.