Information
Landmark: Botanical Garden of the OzarksCity: Fayetteville
Country: USA Arkansas
Continent: North America
Botanical Garden of the Ozarks, Fayetteville, USA Arkansas, North America
Natchez City Cemetery is a historic burial ground located in Natchez, Mississippi, USA.
Visual Characteristics
The cemetery covers approximately 14 acres. It features a mix of 19th and 20th-century funerary architecture, including marble obelisks, granite monuments, and cast-iron tombs. The grounds are characterized by mature oak trees draped with Spanish moss, providing significant canopy cover. Pathways are primarily unpaved, with some sections featuring gravel or brick.
Location & Access Logistics
Natchez City Cemetery is situated approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) northeast of downtown Natchez. Access is via D'Evereux Drive. Limited on-site parking is available near the main entrance. Public transport options directly serving the cemetery are not available; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle or taxi.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Established in 1810, Natchez City Cemetery was created to consolidate burials from smaller, older churchyards. It served as the primary municipal cemetery for Natchez. The site is situated on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, with the underlying geology consisting of loess soil, common to the region.
Key Highlights & Activities
Exploration of the cemetery's historical grave markers and funerary art is the primary activity. Self-guided walking tours are possible. Specific points of interest include the historic Jewish cemetery section and the tomb of Stephen Duncan, a prominent 19th-century planter.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are not available within the cemetery grounds. Shade is provided by mature trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located on-site; visitors should plan to bring provisions or visit establishments in nearby downtown Natchez.
Best Time to Visit
The best time of day for photography is late morning or late afternoon, when sunlight filters through the trees, creating distinct shadows. The most favorable months for visiting are March through May and September through November, offering moderate temperatures and lower humidity. No tide considerations are applicable.
Facts & Legends
A notable feature is the "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier," a memorial to Confederate soldiers. Local lore suggests that some of the older tombs were designed to prevent grave robbers, with some allegedly featuring ventilation shafts or other architectural elements for this purpose.
Nearby Landmarks
- 0.8km Southwest: Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center
- 1.2km Southwest: Historic Natchez Downtown
- 1.5km West: The Natchez Museum of History
- 2.0km West: The Natchez Grand Hotel