Carrollton Is One Of Mississippi’s Best Preserved 19th Century Communities

Both Natchez and Columbus boast an abundance of well-preserved homes from the 19^th century. However, they’re not the only towns with tons of historic buildings. Another spot that’s often overlooked, yet equally as historic is Carrollton. As if frozen in time, the charming town is filled with homes, businesses, and churches from the 1800s.

With just under 200 residents, Carrollton is the epitome of a small town.

However, it’s not your typical small town, and that’s because it’s touted as “one of Mississippi’s most perfectly preserved 19th-century communities.”

Having barley changed over the centuries, a huge chunk of Carrollton’s buildings were constructed in the 1800s.

Like some sort of time capsule, the streets are lined with historic homes, storefronts, and churches.

Among the most notable buildings in Carrollton is Merrill’s Store.

Dating back to the 1830s, it now serves as a museum.

There’s also the courthouse and jail – both of which date back to the 1870s.

And though many of the buildings were constructed at the same time, that doesn’t mean they’re all alike, particularly the churches. You’ll find various types of churches in Carrollton – from Gothic to more classic styles.

The residences are also varied and include everything from antebellum estates to Victorian cottages.

Carrollton’s historic appeal hasn’t gone unnoticed, either.

Back in 1968, Carrollton was selected as the filming site for "The Reivers," a Faulkner novel turned movie, which is set in 1904. Aside from covering the streets in dirt and concealing the local gas station, Carrollton needed very little prep for filming. Scenes were filmed throughout Carrollton, including at the Captain Ray House (pictured above).

Ready to pay a visit to Carrollton and peek into the past? To learn more, check out the Carrollton website. And though Carrollton is a great visit year-round, the best time to visit is during its annual pilgrimage, when many of the buildings are open for tours. Click here for more info.

So, did you know about Carrollton? Ever visited? Know of another must-visit for history buffs? Tell us!

Carrollton isn’t the only Mississippi town where you can re-visit the past. Click here to read about seven others.