Entire home

Experience History from the Luxury of a Southern Pre-Civil War Mansion

Photo gallery for Experience History from the Luxury of a Southern Pre-Civil War Mansion

Exterior
Pool
Exterior
Interior
Terrace/patio

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 106202 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Washer
  • Pool
  • Fireplace
  • Parking available

Explore the area

Map
Vicksburg, MS
  • Old Warren County Court House Museum
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Vicksburg Convention Center
    ‪14 min walk‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 10)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet

Bathroom 4

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Separate dining area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Experience History from the Luxury of a Southern Pre-Civil War Mansion

Stay in this historic pre-civil war mansion in the heart of historic Vicksburg which was updated in 2013 and has a private pool.

Constructed in 1830, Featherston-Magruder House was first built as a single story structure for Vicksburg's first school and its headmaster, Richard Featherson, and his family, who owned a planation south of Vicksburg on the Natchez trace and ran a supply chain serving the Americans in the Revolutionary War. Dr. Alex Magruder, the great grandson of an indentured servant who arrived in Virginia from Scotland in1653 expanded the house to two stories in 1850 and used the original as a clinic where he treated victims of the 1853 Yellow Fever Outbreak that killed half the city's population. Sold in 1869 to Nathaniel Thomas, son of General George Thomas of the Union army, the house was later owned by Tom Morrissey, a steamboat captain and liquor dealer. Built by slaves in the Greek Revival style, the house was remodeled with Italianate features. This historic mansion was spared the destruction of the siege because of the prisoners of war next door and managed to be hit by only one dud cannonball, which is now a door stop in the parlor.

Located at the epicenter of Civil War history, the property sits in the middle of historic Vicksburg and has easy access to the Civil War national park, a number of historic cotton and sugar plantations, the USS Cairo Museum and is one hour drive from Natchez. The home is a perfect way to end your visit to the Blues Trail and is conveniently located to the riverboat casinos and some of the country's best hunting grounds and bird watching sanctuaries.

The home is one of the first Italianate architecture homes in the US and is decorated with period pieces from 1850s and still feels homey despite its 19th century grandeur.


The property is adjacent to the county jail, which served a the central holding place for Union POWs, as well as to the old courthouse where Jefferson Davis accepted the presidency of the Confederacy and three years later Gen. Ulysses S. Grant accepted the surrender of the Confederate Army on July 4th, 1863.

The estate has its own private pool as well as five updated bathrooms, two of which are ensuite. There is a pool house which can be added to the rental for an additional $190 per night and is Vrbo property number 1099861. The property is situated in the middle of Vicksburg, high on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River Valley. Sit on a rocking chair on the grand porch and imagine yourself back in time.

Property manager

Abby Wright

Languages

English, French, German, Japanese

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

Events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events are allowed on site
Long-term renters welcome
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Vicksburg

Located in Vicksburg, this holiday home is in the city centre and on a river. Old Warren County Court House Museum and Martha Vick House are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Mississippi River and Catfish Row Children's Art Park. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Vicksburg, MS

What's nearby

  • Old Warren County Court House Museum - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum - 5 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Vicksburg Convention Center - 14 min walk - 1.2 km
  • Vicksburg National Military Park - 3 min drive - 3.1 km
  • Ameristar Casino Vicksburg - 6 min drive - 5.2 km

Getting around

  • Jackson, MS (JAN-Evers Intl.) - 55 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cottonwood Public House - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Walnut Hills - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪China King Chinese Restaurant - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does Experience History from the Luxury of a Southern Pre-Civil War Mansion have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is Experience History from the Luxury of a Southern Pre-Civil War Mansion pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Experience History from the Luxury of a Southern Pre-Civil War Mansion?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Experience History from the Luxury of a Southern Pre-Civil War Mansion?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Experience History from the Luxury of a Southern Pre-Civil War Mansion located?

Located in the heart of Vicksburg, this holiday home is within a 5-minute walk of Old Warren County Court House Museum and Martha Vick House. Biedenharn Coca-Cola Museum and Church of the Holy Trinity are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 41 out of 41 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Dawn C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing!

We love staying at this property! It’s truly a beautiful home!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carrie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful and comfortable!

House is so wonderful, clean, and comfortable. We had everything we need and more!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gregory K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magnificent Southern Mansion

This historic home is beautiful, thoughtfully furnished, and well-kept. Our family had a wonderful experience. All aspects of our stay were excellent. The owner and staff were extremely helpful with all communication. We enjoyed a memorable time at this outstanding accommodation.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jane K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place! Lovely! Wonderful host and property manager!

Exciting family gathering to celebrate high school graduation 🎓 of our twin nieces. This historic property is a perfect setting, many beautiful rooms for family pictures, conversations, and just being together for family time. You can't go wrong with this gorgeous historic mansion.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lerissa R., Mississippi

Just as great our second time around !

This is our second time to stay at this beautiful home. The house managers are quick to respond if needed, and the house has everything you need. We enjoyed being within walking distance to great food and shopping. The best part is morning coffee on the front porch. We definitely plan on coming back.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2018

10/10 Excellent

Ning W., Milwaukee, WI

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible experience

This house is amazing -- and the photos don't do it justice. A perfect spot to appreciate the history of Vicksburg. The decor is perfect - lovely antiques. The pool is private and lovely. Our favorite part? Sitting on the front porch and looking at the Mississippi River! Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Valerie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Love it and beautiful

Nice surprise that they had fruit/milk/juice and waters when we arrived. The little things that has set the house above all the places we have stayed. Very spacious for sure. The kids enjoyed the pool. Great enertainment for the kids. Great communication with owner and Lorena the housekeeper that should is around.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer U.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Simply Delightful

Some of the bedrooms were listed on different floors than the actual plan, but it was ok. The home was lovely! It couldn't have been more perfect, and check-in/out was easy. Thank you for sharing your property with us. We made wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. All the best to you!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Kay F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Host Ever!

Not only was the property beautiful, the owner was super! He met us at the property and gave us a tour of this beautiful, historic home. From the furnishings throughout the home to the fresh flowers in the kitchen, fresh fruit and lovely linens on the beds, gardens and pool area, it was a lovely stay. We loved sitting in the rockers on the front porch and watching the sun go down over the Mississippi River. Thank you John for making our visit to Vicksburg one we will never forget. Looking forward to visiting your property in KY!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tisha P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best VRBO

By far the best VRBO experience from start to finish! Many things could have gone wrong due to horrible storms but precious Lorna handled everything like a PRO! She is a gem. The house is spotless and has every amenity. The history of the house added to its charm. This was our son’s wedding weekend so we were extremely busy with people in and out. The home was big enough to hold all of the groomsmen as they dressed and relaxed before wedding time.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bobbi M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Historic Mansion

We are frequent VRBOers and have never experienced a home like this. First the hosts were fabulous and made our stay so pleasurable. This is a true Antebellum Mansion. It is full of beautiful furniture and antiques that enhance the grandeur of this home. The modern conveniences are evident from the Viking stove that we used to prepare dinner for 16 family members that came over. The pool was heated and ready for my little niece to jump in on our arrival. There are historic facts and items of interest all throughout the home. If you are looking for a great place to stay in Vicksburg I fully recommend staying here!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Michele M., Kansas City

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Holiday in Breathtaking Historic Home

Stunning! Our family met in Vicksburg for winter break. All ages will love this place! Greeted with beautiful floral arrangements and fresh baked brownies, salty snacks and stocked fridge. Very clean home with gorgeous furniture and decor. We were delighted to use the heated pool in December--pool accessories, plush towels and comfortable seating--what a treat! Our dog was welcomed and seemed to fit right in after getting acclimated to the vastness of the home and yard. My favorite room was the updated kitchen. Cooking on the professional Viking range was a dream. I used the giant cast iron skillet too! The location is close to the battlefield, restaurants and shops. Our family felt like royalty. I am so happy we chose this property for our visit.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2019
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Lerissa R., Mississippi

Princess Castle

We had the pleasure of staying at this beautiful home during the week of the Miss Mississippi pageant. The house is truly remarkable with breathtaking views from the many large windows found throughout, and my favorite view, from the rocking chair of the front porch overlooking downtown to the Mississippi River. We felt like we went back in time from the moment we walked in. One could spend a full day just admiring the antiques and decor of the home. The attention to detail by the owner & house managers left us not wanting to leave and already planning our return. From fresh flower arrangements throughout the home to returning daily to neatly made beds made our busy week more enjoyable. The kitchen had everything, including the largest cast iron skillet, perfect for cooking for our big bunch. You can't beat the location, with the closest restaurant just a short walk down the driveway and across the street. Many other restaurants, boutiques, and museums are just a short walk away. Tropical storm Cindy tried to rain on our parade, literally, and in more ways than one, but thankfully the home also had umbrellas. When it wasn't raining, the pool was a perfect place for us moms to relax while the girls practiced and the first place they went to when they returned. The owner and house managers were only a phone call away to answer any questions. You can't beat their hospitality! We fell in love with everything about this home and our Magnolia Princesses referred to it as their castle.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2017

10/10 Excellent

Mark S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

This is an amazing property. We highly recommend staying here!

Truly one of the most beautiful homes in Vicksburg.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Valerie M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Love this house

This is our second time staying here and it doesn’t disappoint. Beautiful home and will stay again when we are in the area.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Diana J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful home to enjoy with family.

I can truly say the host and caretaker were very gracious made check in so easy. The house is very opulent furnished beautifully. We enjoyed sitting on front porch in morning with coffee. Grand kids made good use of pool. Enjoyed the kitchen room for everyone to help. I can only say if your looking for home to share time together this is it! Thanks again for a lovely home and time shared. Diane Johnson
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

B F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful home for families

This is a beautiful home in a a very convenient location near all the downtown fun. The entire home was immaculately clean. The rooms are comfortably furnished and the kitchen had everything we needed. We were in town for a family wedding and this home provided lots of room to gather together, play cards or just hang out by the pool. Both the owner John and caretaker Lorna were very kind and easy to work with. We would definitely stay there again if the opportunity should arise.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Claudia L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location for our family vacation!

The house is trully wonderful, it was beautifully decorated, spotless and very comfortable for our party of 12. I would love to come back for another family reunion!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Chris S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Annual 4th of July trip to Vicksburg, Ms

We had a truly wonderful stay at the Vicksburg mansion. The home was extremely clean, comfortable, well furnished and had everything that you could think of ever needing. We had a gorgeous formal dining room with seating for 12 and had sit down family style dinners, two times while at the house. The bedrooms are all HUGE and have been thoughtfully furnished, including down comforters and with extra pillows and blankets. The house lives very comfortably and elegantly at the same time. The inground pool and detached pool cabana allowed for built in relaxation right outside the door. The pool is very private and has an outdoor grill which we made good use of on our last evening together. We will definitely be back for an let her stay at this luxurious historic mansion!! With much gratitude and genuine appreciation, Chris Smith, New Orleans Realtor
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mehame H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very satisfied

We had a great time. The house manager is very helpful and the area was very clean
Stayed 1 night in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nicholas C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vicksburg getaway

Treated ourselves to a stay in this beautiful mansion that is within walking distance of the river activities and shopping and less than 2 miles from the military cemetery. Loved the fact that our “adult kids” had space for themselves. Gorgeous historical mansion. Would stay there again

10/10 Excellent

Kristina D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great House in a great location

The house was spectacular and in a great location. My family and I enjoyed seeing some of the historical sites in the area and lounging by the pool. Exactly what we needed! Check-in and support was great. We couldn’t have asked for better accommodations for our short stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Evelyn L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Home away from Home

Had a great time with the family. We really enjoyed the pool. The house was grand, beautiful and clean. Lorna was very accommodating. Looking forward to staying here again on our next family event. I will definitely recommend this place to friends and family!

10/10 Excellent

Derek G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Stay

The Featherstone Magruder mansion is a historic and luxurious property that is a must stay if in Vicksburg. Communication with the owner and caretaker was seamless. Wish we had more time to stay!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jason P., Tupelo Mississippi

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ideal Getaway

The house offers an ideal setting for a quiet getaway. In the heart of historic Vicksburg, this home allows for luxury accommodations with privacy and southern style. The owner and caretakers were wonderful to work with and made the entire booking and check-in process so easy. I would recommend this property and will definitely be back for a return visit.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2020

About the host

Hosted by Abby Wright

Host profile image
John Wright is the former editor of The Wall Street Journal in Asia and makes Hong Kong and New York his home. A native of Minnesota, Mr. Wright Is the founder of American Estate Villas, a company dedicated to luxury accommodations in key American cultural and heritage destinations.

Why they chose this property

The history of the American South is one of the most important to the development of American Culture, from slavery to Civil Rights. As such, this historically and architecturally significant property provides a perfect means by which to experience the Deep South from a base in Vicksburg, Mississippi, a city whose geographical location along the Mississippi River put it at the center of the cotton industry, the Mississippi Waterway Trade, the economic development of the South, the removal of Native Americans, French and Spanish Colonialism, the Civil War, the Klu Klux Klan, and the Civil Rights struggle for African Americans as well as the birth place of America's music, the Blues.

What makes this property unique

The sweeping staircase and grand parlors, as well as the decorative architectural elements have made this National Historic Register home a rare survivor of time. The rafters still are charred from a roof fire in the Civil War, but the building remains intact and updated. There is a marble fireplace in every room.

Languages:

English, French, German, Japanese