The Mississippi Gulf Coast region has a rich history as it has been settled for many years and has many different historical sites. Here is a list of some of those sites and what they are about.
- Biloxi Lighthouse
Built in 1848 this cast iron lighthouse was one of the first of its kind in the south. Over time this lighthouse has become a landmark for the city as well as local symbol representing the cities strength and endurance through hurricane Katrina. The 64-foot-tall structure is open to the public for daily tours.
- Mary Mahoney’s Old French House Built in 1737
One of the oldest homes in the country can be found right in Biloxi and has been converted into a restaurant so all are welcome to enjoy what the property has to offer. Originally built by French colonists in the 1700s, the home incorporates exposed brick features, cypress columns and heart pine floors. Over the many years, standing and at one point was occupied by Governor Jean Baptiste. Currently, it is a restaurant that has built local as well as national recognition. Dine in one of many rooms or outside in the courtyard while enjoying French cuisine.
- The White House Fountain
Constructed in 1926, this fountain was built to accommodate the White House Hotel. The White House Hotel was one of the premier hotels in the area for quite some time. This fountain is quite grand as it takes up to 62 feet of space.
- Gulfport Harbor Square Commercial Historic District – Fishbone Alley
What used to be an alleyway used for maintenance and trash collection has been turned into a hub for entertainment and events in downtown Gulfport. Fishbone Alley has been transformed into an area where artists have taken over by adding different pieces of artwork and murals. In addition to the art, restaurants and bars have joined the alleyway to provide a great area to walk down and enjoy a drink or bite to eat. Thanks to the to-go-cup laws you can grab a drink at one end and enjoy it all the way down to the other. Here you will also find multiple events throughout the year. Located between 26th and 27th avenue and 13th and 14th streets, it has something for everyone.
- Fort Massachusetts
Located on Ship Island, which is 12 miles south of Gulfport, this fort was used for multiple different things. The fort went under construction in 1859 for the civil war but did not get used very much and ended up not being fully complete until 1866. As of 1900 the fort was no longer in use for any battles and is now a historic landmark. Tours are given and the fort can be reached by taking a Ship Island excursion out of Gulfport.
- The Charnley Norwood House
This historic location in Ocean Springs is a home built in 1890 and designed by famed architects Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright. The house is one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s first projects. Open on Friday and Saturdays.
- Bay St. Louis Historic L&N Train Depot
Built in 1928, this mission style building was once a train depot and has now been deemed a “Mississippi Landmark.” It now houses the Bay St. Louis Mardi Gras Museum and the Alice Moseley Folk Art museum.
- St. Rose de Lima Church
Located in Bay St. Louis since 1868, this church and school was the first to provide a school to African Americans in the area. Over the years the parish has grown dramatically and they earn top honors for their southern gospel choir being one of the best in the country. Most notably, the church has a mural above the altar of an African Christ figure. Tours must be setup by appointment only.
- Waveland’s Ground Zero Hurricane Museum
This museum focuses on the hurricanes that had devastated the New Orleans coast. It has rotating exhibits and some interactive exhibits. With this museum the hurricane will remain in the past but be a reminder of how far the region has come after being hit hard by multiple hurricanes.
If you are looking for a home nearby to any of these historical sites or if you are looking for an older home please reach out to Owen & Co. Real Estate who can help you to determine which is the right property for you.
