Ronda Bernstein

Came to the house for a temporary exhibit on a short story Welty wrote the night Medgar Evers was assassinated in his home across town. The exhibits in the visitor center are free, as are the gardens. There is a fee for a house tour. The gardens were quite lovely as well with signs talking about their creation as well as linking them to her short stories and letters.

Beautiful memorial to those from Illinois who fought in the Battle (Siege) of Vicksburg. Modeled after the Pantheon in Rome, the building has 44 steps, one for each day of the Siege. Inside are bronze plaques listing the names of every Illinois soldier that was there by infantry and company. The beautiful thing, however, is the mosaic Seal of Illinois on the floor. Because it is elevated and has an open oculous, there is a breeze inside, even on the hottest days. Right now it is only accessible by foot because the road is closed for construction. If you are disabled and are from Illinois or have an ancestor listed inside, inquire at the Visitor Center and someone may be able to help accommodate you to get closer.

Wonderful exhibits on Alexandria's history with lots of artifacts and images. Also a gift shop. Great place to start a visit to Alexandria as they have walking tour maps.