History Hunting in Port Gibson, Miss.: A Visit to the Windsor Ruins

By Roscoe Barnes III

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Roscoe Barnes III in front of the Windsor Ruins
Photo by Michelle Childres

Michelle Childres and I had the time of our lives when we visited Port Gibson, Miss., on Sunday, July 7, 2019. We had lunch and took a stroll downtown. After visiting a state park, we toured the Windsor Ruins near Alcorn State University. The structure of the ruins is simply majestic! I know of no other word to describe it. Michelle said it was "majestic and awe-inspiring." "It took my breath away," she added.

Michelle Childres (selfie)

I couldn't believe that this structure was in Mississippi. It seemed out of place ... and almost hidden. But what a treasure! One of the things that caught my eye was the Greek design. I told Michelle I could almost see Hercules popping up from around the columns.

Michelle Childres taking pictures

“Built in 1859-61 by Smith Daniell who only lived in the large mansion for a few weeks before he died. The Windsor plantation once sprawled over 2,600 acres. Legend says that from a roof observatory, Mark Twain watched the Mississippi River in the distance.

“A Union soldier was shot in the front doorway of the home. During the Civil War the mansion was used as a Union hospital and observation post, thus sparing it from being burned by Union troops.

“However, after the Civil War, during a house party on February 17, 1890 a guest left a lighted cigar on the upper balcony and Windsor burned to the ground. Everything was destroyed except 23 of the columns, balustrades and iron stairs.” -- NatchezTraceTravel.com

Marker in front of Windsor Ruins

Michelle between two pillars

Warning noted

Michelle Childres standing in awe

Something worth saving

Majestic!
Photo by Michelle Childres

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ROSCOE BARNES III, Ph.D., is a writer, chaplain, historian, and former newspaper reporter. He is the author of more than a dozen books and Gospel tracts. For more information about his work and history, see his Personal Profile here or visit his website: http://www.roscoebarnes.net. Connect with him on Twitter (@roscoebarnes3) or by email: roscoebarnes3@yahoo.com.