Intersection of Main and North Pearl streets
Natchez Trails
The 1927 Eola Hotel is the tallest building in downtown Natchez. Named for Eola Levy, the daughter of developer Isadore Levy, it became a center for social activity for the city. Celebrities who visited the hotel in the mid-1900s included Eleanor Roosevelt and Elizabeth Taylor. The hotel closed in 1974 due to competition from highway motels. It reopened in 1982 after major renovations.
For almost 100 years, a lighted Christmas tree has stood in the middle of Main Street during December. This 1920s photograph shows a large cedar tree at the intersection of Main and Pearl streets. Natchez residents celebrate the "Lighting of the Christmas Tree" each year.
Almost every building on the north side of the 400 block of Main Street dates to the late 1860s and 1870s. They represent the rising prosperity of Natchez merchants after the Civil War. The third building from the left once housed the Natchez Confectionery, where local African American musician Bud Scott (1856-1938) played concerts from the balcony. Police Chief Mike Ryan was a big fan of Scott's music, and when Ryan raised his finger, Scott knew he wanted him to sing,“My Wild Irish Rose."
In 1889, the Natchez Savings Bank remodeled an earlier commercial building for its new bank. By 1918, the building became Tillman's
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Erected by City of Natchez.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Roads & Vehicles • Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the Eleanor Roosevelt, and the Mississippi - Natchez Trails series lists.
Location. 31° 33.613′ N, 91° 24.202′ W. Marker is in Natchez, Mississippi, in Adams County. Marker is at the intersection of Main Street and North Pearl Street, on the left when traveling west on Main Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Natchez MS 39120, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Site of Bank of Mississippi (within shouting distance of this marker); Bud Scott (within shouting distance of this marker); United States Courthouse (within shouting distance of this marker); In Gratitude (within shouting distance of this marker); "The Natchez Burning" (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Intersection of Main and South Commerce streets (about 400 feet away); Old Natchez Hotel (about 400 feet away); Intersection of Main and Wall streets (about 400 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Natchez.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 22, 2018. It was originally submitted on February 22, 2018, by Cajun Scrambler of Assumption, Louisiana. This page has been viewed 363 times since then and 43 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 22, 2018.
