Posted in Mississippi January 27, 2018 by

One Of Mississippi’s Most Renowned Attractions Is Hiding An Eerie Secret

The last place you’d expect to find a worldwide attraction is small town Mississippi. However, that’s exactly the case with the Windsor Ruins. Located in Port Gibson, the popular landmark is visited by countless people each year. However, unbeknownst to many, there’s another historic site nearby. Deep in the nearby woods on top of an Indian mound, sits a seemingly deserted cemetery from centuries ago. Read on to learn about the mysterious graveyard.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The Windsor Ruins are located about 10 miles southwest of Port Gibson. A bit off the beaten path, they’re situated at the end of a gravel road off of Highway 552.
Janie Fortenberry/Photography with a Southern Accent/Vicksburg, Mississippi
Hauntingly beautiful, the ruins are all that remain of what was the largest Greek Revival mansion in Mississippi.
David Salters
Built just before the Civil War, Windsor was the epitome of luxury. The sprawling home included 25 fireplaces (one for each room), a 4th floor ballroom, rooftop observatory, and indoor plumbing.

Sadly, Windsor was destroyed by a fire in 1890. Today, all that remains are 23 of the original 29 columns and a few pieces of cast iron balustrade. Though it’s not certain, it’s believed the fire was started by a party guest who dropped a lit cigar.
Despite the obscure location, the ruins are one of Mississippi’s most notable sites, attracting people from all over the world. However, not many visitors realize there’s another historic site hiding in the nearby woods.
David Salters
Just several hundred feet north of the renowned ruins lays the Freeland Cemetery.
Marty Kittrell/How Great Thou Art
Eerily secluded yet utterly beautiful, the historic burial ground sits atop an ancient Indian Mound.
Marty Kittrell/How Great Thou Art
A family cemetery, it’s the final resting place of Windsor’s owner, Smith Coffee Daniell II, his wife Catherine Freeland, and their descendants.
Marty Kittrell/How Great Thou Art
Some of the graves date back to the early 1860s.
Marty Kittrell/How Great Thou Art
In November 1971, the cemetery along with the ruins was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Marty Kittrell/How Great Thou Art
Almost lost to time, it's full of headstones that are nearly camouflaged by greenery and leaves.
Marty Kittrell/How Great Thou Art
The deteriorating brickwork is another sign of the graveyard's age.
Marty Kittrell/How Great Thou Art
Between the isolated location and dozens of graves, the cemetery is almost as eerie as it is historic.
Marty Kittrell/How Great Thou Art

So, have you ever visited Windsor Ruins? What’d you think? Did you know a cemetery was hidden nearby? Tell us in the comments section!

Check out “What This Drone Footage Caught In Mississippi Will Drop Your Jaw” to see the famous ruins in a whole new way!