NATCHEZ GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Myrtle Terrace, 1844–1851: Captain Leathers’ Natchez House of Gardens and Period Furnishings
A one-hour look inside Myrtle Terrace — the 1851 Natchez home of steamboat captain Thomas P. Leathers, notable for its Empire and Victorian furnishings, gardens and a vintage carriage house.
Myrtle Terrace, 1844–1851: Captain Leathers’ Natchez House of Gardens and Period Furnishings.
Adventure brief
Myrtle Terrace, 1844–1851: Captain Leathers’ Natchez House of Gardens and Period Furnishings
Built beginning in 1844 and completed in 1851, Myrtle Terrace was once home to internationally known steamboat captain Thomas P. Leathers. The house contains a large, period-appropriate collection of Empire and Victorian furnishings set in spacious rooms; the property’s grounds are planted with gardens, punctuated by fountains and enclosed by an ornate iron fence. Behind the house stands a mid-19th-century carriage house, offered as an Airbnb, that completes the historic ensemble.
Nestled in the heart of Natchez, Mississippi, Myrtle Terrace stands as a captivating relic of 19th-century grandeur. Completed in 1851, this historic property was once the residence of the renowned steamboat captain Thomas P. Leathers. Today, it offers visitors a chance to step back in time, wandering through elegant Empire and Victorian furnishings that tell stories of a bygone era. The house boasts lush gardens, charming fountains, and authentic vintage features, creating a picturesque setting for history buffs and architecture lovers alike. Unique to the Natchez area, Myrtle Terrace provides an immersive experience with its beautifully preserved interiors and exterior charm, making it a top destination for those interested in Southern history and antebellum architecture. The property’s vintage carriage house is available for an unforgettable overnight stay, giving guests a rare opportunity to sleep amidst history. Aside from exploring the property’s stunning architecture and serene grounds, visitors can learn about the rich cultural legacy of Natchez and its pivotal role in the Mississippi River steamboat era. Myrtle Terrace truly offers more than just a scenic visit; it’s an educational journey that captures the spirit of the region’s pioneering past. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a deep dive into local history, Myrtle Terrace offers an enriching experience that stands out in Mississippi’s historic landscape. This site exemplifies the architectural and cultural heritage that makes Natchez a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventure travelers alike, blending education with a touch of Southern elegance.
Route Schematic
Route & Key Stops
A concise sequence of sights on the Myrtle Terrace property.
Approach and Iron Fence
View the ornate iron fence that surrounds the property and take in the planted grounds leading up to the house.
Formal Rooms and Furnishings
Walk through the spacious period rooms arranged with a large collection of Empire and Victorian furnishings.
Gardens and Fountains
Explore the gardens and fountains that cover the grounds and frame views of the house.
Carriage House (behind the main house)
See the carriage house built in the 1850s behind the home; this outbuilding is offered as an Airbnb.
Suitable for visitors of all ages; check with the operator for any accessibility details or last-minute route changes.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Home of Captain Thomas P. Leathers
Myrtle Terrace is historically known as the residence of Thomas P. Leathers, an internationally famous steamboat captain who prospered in the lower river cotton trade and built multiple steamboats, including seven named 'Natchez.'
Empire and Victorian Furnishings
Inside, the house showcases a large, period-appropriate collection of Empire and Victorian furnishings arranged within spacious rooms that reflect mid-19th-century taste and scale.
Gardens, Fountains and a Carriage House
The property’s grounds are covered in gardens and fountains and are surrounded by an ornate iron fence; behind the house stands a carriage house dating to the 1850s that is offered as an Airbnb.
What the day feels like
A Compact, Historic House Visit
The visit is an opportunity to move through roomy mid-19th-century interiors arranged with Empire and Victorian furnishings, then step outside to view the gardens and fountains that frame the house. The carriage house behind the home completes the property’s period setting.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this short historic visit suits.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Duration is listed at one hour; confirm scheduling and seasonal hours with the operator.
No operator gear list is provided in the verified data; contact Natchez Pilgrimage Tours for specific recommendations.
The property includes the main house and grounds plus a separate mid-19th-century carriage house on the site; check the operator for access details.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the visit?
The visit is listed as one hour.
Who built Myrtle Terrace and when was it completed?
Construction began under Nathaniel L. Carpenter in 1844 and the house was completed in 1851 when it was purchased by Captain Thomas P. Leathers.
Who was Thomas P. Leathers?
Thomas P. Leathers was an internationally famous steamboat captain who accumulated financial success in the lower river cotton trade and built multiple steamboats, including seven named 'Natchez.'
What is inside the house?
The house showcases a large, period-appropriate collection of Empire and Victorian furnishings within spacious rooms.
Are the grounds notable?
Yes — the grounds are covered in gardens and fountains and are surrounded by an ornate iron fence.
Is there lodging on the property?
There is a carriage house behind the home, built in the 1850s, which is offered as an Airbnb.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-12T12:12:00.489Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.