Along For The Ride
History Abounds in Columbia from Andrew Jackson to a one-time state capital
Nestled in the heart of south Mississippi , Marion County beckons travelers with its rich history , scenic landscapes and charming attractions that make for a wonderful day trip . From the legendary John Ford Home to the breathtaking views at Red Bluff , every corner of Marion County offers a glimpse into the past while embracing the beauty of the present .
Step back in time while visiting the John Ford Home , a testament to the grandeur of early settler life . The home , constructed in 1809 by the Rev . John Ford , an early settler to the region , is acknowledged by the National Register of Historic Places as a prime example of elevated frontier-style architecture prevalent in the Mississippi Valley along the Pearl River during that era .
Ford and his wife shared their home with many travelers as they passed through , and one of those was Gen . Andrew Jackson enroute to the Battle of New Orleans . Jackson stayed there , abiding by the no cursing or no drinking rules while in the house . On a tour of the house today , the Jackson bed is still
By Brandi Perry and Dori Lowe , Photos by Dori Lowe
Hill Hardware , Marion County ’ s oldest operating hardware store , offers visitors an array of merchandise .
in the same place as when the future president slumbered there . The home was also the location of two Mississippi Methodist Conferences in 1814 and 1818 , as well as the Pearl River Convention , which determined not only statehood but also the boundary between Mississippi and Alabama .
The Marion County Historical Society bought the property located in the Sandy Hook community in 1962 and have done the necessary improvements needed to the home , but it remains in the original condition . Tours can be arranged by calling the Marion County Historic Society at ( 601 ) 731-3999 .
For nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike , Red Bluff is a must-visit destination . Known as the “ Little Grand Canyon of Mississippi ,” this awe-inspiring geological formation offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the meandering Pearl River below . Hike along the rugged trails , marvel at thevibrant hues of the sandstone cliffs , and witness the timeless beauty of nature at its finest . Researchers claim that the formation showed up on a 15th
44 • MERIDIAN LIFE