Nature is Reclaiming This Forgotten Mississippi Landmark And It’s Heartbreaking
There are so many exquisitely preserved historic sites and structures in Mississippi; unfortunately, Natchez’s Arlington is not one of them. Not only stunning, the significant home set somewhat of an architectural precedence for the grand homes for which the city has become known. Today, Arlington sits in shambles, further deteriorating due to being exposed to the elements.
Arlington is a Federal style home that was built by John Hampton White and his wife, Jane Surget White. Although the actual year of construction is unknown, it is believed the home was built around 1816. Sadly, Mr. White didn’t get to enjoy the home for long as he died in 1819 from yellow fever. Mrs. White died several years later in 1825.
There are no records indicating Arlington’s architect, but it is believed that Levi Weeks, an architect from New England, designed the home.
Before Arlington fell into disrepair, it was considered to be extremely significant. According to the National Park Service, the home is "one of four important Federal Style villas, which established the basic form for the later antebellum houses of Natchez."
The 55-acre property was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and listed as a National Historic Landmark in 1974.
In September of 2002, Arlington was extensively damaged due to a fire that broke out. Shortly after the fire, the Historic Natchez Foundation replaced the home’s roof. Many residents believed that was the beginning of the home’s much-needed restoration; however, that wasn’t the case, and by 2009, Arlington was listed as the second most endangered historic property in the state by the Mississippi Heritage Trust.
Throughout the years, the one-time stunning home has fallen victim to the elements as well as vandals, who have broken in and defaced much of the interior and exterior.
By 2012, Arlington was in such disrepair charges were brought against the owner, Dr. Thomas Vaughn, for not keeping the property up to code.
In 2014, Dr. Vaughn appeared in court and told the judge he was trying to sell Arlington.
Michael Chapman did an excellent job documenting Arlington’s current state and highlighting its potential. Check out his work in the video below.
Michael Chapman did an excellent job documenting Arlington’s current state and highlighting its potential. Check out his work in the video below.
The Ruin of Arlington from Michael Chapman on Vimeo.
Even though Arlington is in such disarray, its beauty is undeniable. It’s hard to believe this is the fate of what was once one of the grandest homes in Natchez. Did you know Arlington existed?
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