Cotesworth House Restoration
Phase 1 of the Cotesworth House Restoration was recently completed in Carrollton, Mississippi. We were excited to take part in the investigation of home to develop phased restoration plans for the exterior, interior, library, and the surrounding site. We look forward to seeing this property provide informative and memorable experiences for visitors of this house museum and educational center.
The Cotesworth House was the home of one of Mississippi’s most distinguished citizens, United States Senator James Zachariah George. J.Z. George is one of two Mississippians to be honored with representation in the Statuary Hall of the United States Capitol. Known for his efforts to restore government in Mississippi after the Civil War and for protecting the interests of the common man, George was nicknamed “The Great Commoner”. His home in Carrollton, MS is a great example of regional Greek Revival architecture as well as a historically significant structure. The detached library is reminiscent of Thomas Jefferson’s scheme for the University of Virginia library with its domed ceiling and radiating bookcases, many of which still contain J.Z. George’s personal books and records of his time in the U.S. Senate.
As well as being a part of Mississippi’s political history, the Cotesworth House was one of the film locations for the 2011 movie The Help. In the movie, Celia Foote and her husband live in the luxurious inn-turned-private residence. For more information about the movie and other film locations, here are a few websites.
Client: Cotesworth Culture and Heritage Center
Date Completed: In Progress
