Mid-America Science Museum | Hot Springs

Information

Landmark: Mid-America Science Museum
City: Hot Springs
Country: USA Arkansas
Continent: North America

Mid-America Science Museum, Hot Springs, USA Arkansas, North America

Anchuca Mansion is a historic house museum located in Vicksburg, Mississippi. It is a significant example of antebellum architecture in the region.

Visual Characteristics

Anchuca Mansion is a two-story Greek Revival structure constructed primarily of brick. The exterior walls are painted white. It features a prominent central portico supported by four Doric columns, leading to a pedimented gable. The roof is low-pitched and hipped. Original wooden shutters are present on the windows.

Location & Access Logistics

The mansion is situated at 1100 Grove Street in Vicksburg, Mississippi. It is approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) west of the Vicksburg city center. On-site parking is available for visitors. Public transport options directly to the mansion are limited; taxi or rideshare services are the most practical alternatives from the city center.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Anchuca Mansion was constructed between 1827 and 1830. It was built by John Callender, a planter and businessman. The original purpose was to serve as a private residence for his family. The architectural style reflects the prevailing Greek Revival trends of the early 19th century.

Key Highlights & Activities

Guided tours of the mansion's interior are offered, detailing its history and furnishings. Visitors can explore the preserved rooms, including the parlor, dining room, and bedrooms. The grounds surrounding the mansion are also accessible for viewing.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available for visitors within the mansion. Limited shade is provided by mature trees on the property. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in this area. No on-site food vendors are present; dining options are available in downtown Vicksburg.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography of the exterior is in the late afternoon when the western light illuminates the facade. The most favorable months for visiting are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) due to moderate temperatures. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that Anchuca Mansion was the birthplace of Jefferson Davis's wife, Varina Howell Davis. A local anecdote suggests that the name "Anchuca" is a Choctaw word meaning "happy hunting ground," though this is debated by historians.