Our History

Discover the people, events, and stories that shaped its enduring significance.

Group of men posing outside a wooden building in vintage attire.

Our History

Discover the people, events, and stories that shaped its enduring significance.

Scenic view with flag and fountain

Centuries of Southern Heritage

The Wigwam, a historic antebellum mansion nestled in the heart of Natchez, Mississippi, boasts a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. The exact date of the first cottage is unknown but believed to be circa 1790. A glimpse of the original roof with wooden shingles can be seen from inside upstairs under the 1836 dormer. From millwork records, significant modifications were made in 1836 as a simple four-room cottage; the home underwent additional renovations in 1858, transforming it into the elegant structure it is today.
During the Civil War, the Wigwam played a pivotal role as a social gathering spot for Union troops. Its strategic location within Fort McPherson, along with four other antebellum homes, played an important role in Natchez history during that time. The home's walls witnessed the ebb and flow of the war, echoing the footsteps of soldiers and the conversations of officers.
In the years following the Civil War, the Wigwam served as a private residence for various families. Its spacious rooms and elegant ambiance provided a comfortable and luxurious home for its occupants. The home's history is intertwined with the stories of the families who lived within its walls, each leaving their own mark on the mansion.
Throughout its existence, The Wigwam has stood as a testament to the enduring spirit of Natchez and its architectural legacy.

A Name Rooted in Personal and Cultural History

In 1857, Douglas L. Rivers and his wife, Eliza Griffen Little Rivers, purchased the home and bestowed upon it the evocative name "The Wigwam."
Eliza's connection to the name was deeply personal. Raised by her uncle, Peter Little, and his wife, Eliza Lowe Little, at their estate, Rosalie, near the Mississippi River, Eliza had a lifelong affinity for the Native American heritage of the region. The name "Wigwam," a term commonly associated with Native American dwellings, served as a tribute to her upbringing and her connection to the Natchez Indians, who once inhabited the area.
Legend has it that The Wigwam is built upon a ceremonial mound of the Natchez Indians, further solidifying its connection to the region's indigenous history. Douglas Rivers, an attorney and justice of the peace, was a prominent figure in Natchez society. The couple also owned a plantation named Forest Home in Louisiana, where they held 108 slaves. The wigwam served as their town home, a place where they raised their children. Sadly, two of their children passed away while the family resided at Rosalie.
The Wigwam's history is a testament to the interconnectedness of families, cultures, and the passage of time. It stands as a reminder of the rich heritage of Natchez and the enduring stories of those who have called it home.

Sunset over a tranquil lake

Continue Exploring the Wigwam

The story of the Wigwam extends beyond its past. Learn how this historic landmark is being thoughtfully cared for and prepared for future generations.

White house with garden layout
Woman and cat near a window
Elegant room with chandelier and fireplace
Elegant vintage living room with chandelier