Nestled within the charming town of Ellisville, Mississippi, the Deason Home is a timeless testament to the antebellum era. This architectural gem, showcasing the “French Raised Cottage” style reminiscent of Mount Vernon, opens a portal to a bygone era, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and exquisite design.
Constructed with meticulous attention to detail, the exterior of the Deason Home is a nod to the stately Mount Vernon, George Washington’s iconic residence. The heavy pine panels meticulously beveled on all four sides, mimic the appearance of masonry blocks. The sand-finished panels give the distinguished impression of stone, setting the Deason Home apart as a true architectural marvel. Ascending the threshold, the four-room interior unfolds, each room seamlessly connected to the partial wrap-around porch. There are no interior doors, creating an open, inviting space that exudes history. Recent revelations have uncovered the kitchen’s original location, which was discreetly positioned to the right of the home, a reminder of the days when meals were prepared with care and precision. On the grounds, the slave quarters, a barn, a smokehouse, and a privy stand as silent witnesses to the harsh daily lives and labor that once thrived on this estate, each structure telling a story, vividly depicting the antebellum South.
Over its 173-year history, the Deason Home has transitioned through the hands of a select few, each leaving an indelible mark on its legacy. Amos Deason and wife Eleanor Baskin first called this residence home in 1845. Isaac Anderson, Jr. and his wife, Sarah Rebecca “Sallie” Pool, continued the legacy in the 1890s, initiating a prolonged period of family stewardship until 1965. In various guises, the Anderson Estate maintained its connection to this historic dwelling for decades, with different family members finding solace and continuity within its hallowed walls. In 1965, the torch passed to Welton Smith and his wife, Frances Anderson, a granddaughter of Isaac Anderson, Jr. and Sarah Pool. For over two decades, they infused their unique spirit and left an imprint that still resonates. Finally, in 1991, the Tallahala Chapter NSDAR Ellisville, MS, assumed the responsibility of preserving and sharing the Deason Home’s narrative with the public for future generations.