« Are you claiming your IRS refund? | Main | Dallas Cowboys' new Arlington stadium »

Monday, March 19, 2007

Revisiting downtown Natchez

One of our writers, Tommy Ford, recently visited Natchez again (see his previous writeup here). Tourists come from all over the world to tour the stately mansions, and experience the hospitality and rich history of the old Southern town. One area of concern noted in his writeup was the downtown area, which had most of the old buildings boarded up. The old downtown movie theatre was still closed, with old celebrity photos in the windows now gone. There have been some positive developments, as new local businesses have moved into the downtown area into some of these old buildings, including coffee shops, antique stores, a brand new book store in another.

Natchez, Mississippi, a hidden gem
The downtown area has alot of potential in attracting tourists who come in droves on tour buses for the Natchez Pilgrimage Tours. We always encourage preservation of historic buildings where feasible, which uses existing building space and preserves the unique architectural character and sense of place for future generations to enjoy. There are too many downtown areas that have destroyed their historic old buildings in the name of progress or have neglected them and have suffered for it.

Old marker denoting the center of Natchez
Thankfully, many towns and cities we have visited have had the insight to focus on preserving their downtown areas and have seen them blossom and become revitalized again. These are positive signs for the Natchez downtown area. It is a gem in the rough.

For an interesting read, check out Natchez and the Mississippi, signed by the author

Posted by Carl Burnham at 12:24 PM
Edited on: Wednesday, January 30, 2008 6:46 PM
Categories: Destinations
Travel Tools
Book a Hotel
Book a B&B
Book a Hostel
Book a Cruise
RV Resorts/Campgrounds
Travel Books
Best Value Pass to Major Attractions
Tickets to Concerts, NASCAR, Sports, & Theatre
Top Technology Gadgets
Visit Our Sponsors
GoUSA and Southpoint have partnered to bring you a unique offer

Copyright Southpoint.com 2008