Natchez-Day1
The weather was questionable, so I decided to visit the town of Natchez, Mississippi nearby. The city is located on the Mississippi River, with a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian times. The city was founded by the French in 1716 and quickly became an important trading post due to its strategic location on the river.
During the antebellum period, Natchez was one of the wealthiest cities in the United States due to its booming cotton industry, and the city's magnificent mansions and historic homes reflect this prosperous era. However, this wealth was built on the backs of enslaved people, who were forced to work on the plantations surrounding the city.
Natchez played a significant role in the Civil War, as Union troops captured the city in 1862 and used it as a base for their operations in the region. In the years following the war, Natchez struggled to recover from the devastation of the conflict and the end of slavery.
Natchez is a popular tourist destination known for its historic architecture, scenic location, and unique blend of cultures. The city's history serves as a reminder of the complex and often painful legacy of the American South, and its continued significance highlights the ongoing importance of understanding and reckoning with this past.
Cathedral of St. Mary Basilica
I was looking for places to visit and came across the Cathedral of St. Mary Basilica. It really is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. The cathedral was constructed between 1837 and 1842, and it is one of the oldest cathedrals in the United States.
The exterior of the cathedral features intricate details, including pointed arches, buttresses, and a towering spire that rises 120 feet into the air. The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with soaring ceilings, ornate stained glass windows, and a magnificent pipe organ. The cathedral also houses an impressive collection of religious art, including statues and paintings.
When I walked into the cathedral I was just stunned. I talked to the maintenance man and he pointed out some of the highlights. He told me the cathedral is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors are welcome to attend Mass and explore the cathedral.
I headed back to the Natchez State Park to make dinner.