  Windy Hill Manor Nine miles from Natchez, on the Liberty road, in a picturesque, moss-draped grove, stands “Windy Hill Manor”, home of the Misses Stanton. The records show that Windy Hill originally belonged to Joseph Ford. It was under the ownership of Benjamin Osmun, a close friend of Aaron Burr, that the place received its great historical interest. After Aaron Burr had been accused of treason against his own country and released on $5,000 bail, he was invited to be the guest of his old friend Benjamin Osmun at Windy Hill. One hundred and twenty years ago Benjamin Osmun sold this plantation to General Brandon, great-grandfather of the Stanton sisters who now occupy it. The Stantons gave the property the name of “Windy Hill Manor”. Architecturally this house, like many of the cottage type ante-bellum homes, is a surprise, when upon entering it is found to be of commodious proportions. It is a story-and-a-half, plantation type home, with wide porch and large columns across the front. There is a beautiful spiral stairway in the wide front hall. To the left is a large drawing room containing numerous relics of days long gone; portraits of past generations; antique furniture, and a most interesting collection of Indian relics. Also, an unusual fireplace and mantel are in this room. (unlabelled) Time has marched on but Windy Hill Manor remains a living, vibrant picture of the days of the ease and graciousness of the Old South. The Misses Stanton complete the perfection of this period picture. Here our visit to the old estates comes to an end. Lack of space has prevented inclusion of all of the ante-bellum homes, but we hope that we have nevertheless captured the charm of Natchez. AARON BURR OAKS |
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