Beauvoir

Imagine a graceful, snow-white mansion surrounded by ancient oaks and cooled by the breeze from the gulf—this is Beauvoir, the historic heart of Biloxi. Located in the USA, it is a magnificent example of Antebellum architecture. Built in 1852, the house was designed as a "raised cottage": its living quarters are elevated above the ground to protect against floods and provide better ventilation in the hot Southern climate.

Today, Beauvoir is more than just a beautiful building; it is a large-scale museum complex. It is best known as the final home of Jefferson Davis. Visitors are drawn by the opportunity to see authentic 19th-century interiors featuring original furniture and personal belongings of the owners, as well as to enjoy the estate's peaceful atmosphere.

The complex spreads across scenic grounds that, in addition to the main house, feature the Jefferson Davis Presidential Library, memorial gardens, and a historic cemetery. It is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is a must-visit for anyone wishing to experience the cultural heritage and history of the American South.

For more information on special events or to book group tours, you can use the museum's official contact details.

Your introduction to the estate begins with a fascinating tour of the main house. Guides dressed in period costumes conduct tours every half-hour, sharing stories about the lifestyle and traditions of the estate's owners. Inside, you can admire the exquisite room finishes and unique pieces of furniture that miraculously survived powerful hurricanes.

After the tour, be sure to take a stroll through the complex's extensive gardens and pathways. Visit the modern Presidential Library, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts and books dedicated to the region's history. The memorial cemetery and a small chapel on the grounds allow you to feel the quiet and grandeur of this historic site.

Don't forget to stop by the gift shop, where you can purchase rare books on Mississippi history or unique Southern-style gifts. End your visit with a moment of relaxation on the mansion's wide veranda, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the coast, perfect for taking great souvenir photos.

The attraction is located at 2244 Beach Blvd, right on the scenic Gulf Coast. If you are traveling by car, it is most convenient to take highway US-90 (Beach Boulevard). Spacious free parking is provided for guests on-site.

For those arriving by plane, it is most convenient to travel from the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT). The drive by car or taxi takes about 20 minutes (approximately 16 km). Since public transportation in this part of the city is somewhat limited, tourists most often choose Uber or car rentals for comfortable travel along the coast.

For outdoor enthusiasts, coastal bike and walking paths are available, though the hot Mississippi climate should be kept in mind. In any case, a trip along the ocean to Beauvoir will be a pleasant addition to your itinerary.

The history of Beauvoir began in the mid-19th century. The mansion was constructed between 1848 and 1852 for planter James Brown. Later, the estate belonged to the Dorsey family, and writer Sarah Dorsey used it as a place for literary work. It was she who invited Jefferson Davis here, for whom Beauvoir became his home for the last 13 years of his life.

One of the most noble chapters in the estate's history was the period from 1903 to 1957. After the property was sold to the Sons of Confederate Veterans organization, a home for veterans and their families was opened here. During its decades of operation, nearly 2,500 people lived in the complex. An old cemetery remains on the grounds where many residents of the home are laid to rest.

In 1941, the main house officially opened its doors to tourists as a museum. Despite the catastrophic destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the estate was painstakingly restored. Today, it serves as a living monument to Southern history, preserving not only its walls but also the spirit of a bygone era.

To explore all the key sites of the estate at a leisurely pace, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 2.5 hours. This will be enough for the main tour and a self-guided walk around the grounds.

Usually, it takes about 40 minutes to view the main house's interiors with a guide. The rest of your time should be spent exploring the Presidential Library, the memorial cemetery, and relaxing in the shaded gardens overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

The museum is open to visitors daily from 09:00 to 17:00. This schedule applies all week, including Saturday and Sunday, making it easy to fit into weekend plans.

However, before visiting on holidays or during unfavorable weather conditions (which is important for a coastal region), it is recommended to check the current schedule on the official website or by phone.

Beauvoir's location on the coast makes it easy to combine a museum visit with other interesting sites. A walk along the gulf or a short drive will lead you to modern entertainment centers and historic lighthouses.

Proximity to popular restaurants and recreation areas makes this district ideal for a full day of sightseeing. Below are some interesting sites located nearby: