Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument | Jackson

The Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home National Monument is a historic house located in Jackson, Mississippi, USA.

This site preserves the former residence of civil rights activist Medgar Evers and his wife, Myrlie Evers.

Visual Characteristics

The structure is a two-story, brick-veneer house built in the Colonial Revival architectural style. It features a symmetrical facade with a central entrance, a hipped roof, and white-painted trim around the windows and cornices. The exterior brickwork is a consistent red-brown hue. The property includes a small front lawn and a backyard area.

Location & Access Logistics

The monument is situated at 2332 Guinn Street, Jackson, Mississippi. It is approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) west of downtown Jackson. Access is via Guinn Street, which connects to State Street. Limited street parking is available in the immediate vicinity of the house. Public transportation options include the Jackson Transit Authority bus route 5, which stops within a 0.5km (0.3 mile) walk of the monument.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The house was constructed in 1951 by the Jackson Housing Corporation. Medgar Evers, a prominent field secretary for the NAACP, purchased the home in 1955. It served as the family residence until his assassination on the front lawn in 1963. The site was designated a National Monument in 2020 to preserve its significance in the Civil Rights Movement.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can participate in ranger-led tours of the house, which offer insights into the Evers family's life and Medgar Evers' activism. The visitor center provides exhibits detailing the history of the Civil Rights Movement in Mississippi. Self-guided exploration of the grounds is also permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the visitor center. Limited shade is provided by trees on the property. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors are located on-site; however, dining options are available in nearby commercial areas.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography of the exterior is late afternoon, when the sun is lower in the sky, providing softer light. The most favorable months for visiting are from March to May and September to November, offering moderate temperatures. No specific tide requirements apply to this inland site.

Facts & Legends

A significant historical detail is that Medgar Evers was assassinated on his front porch as he arrived home from work. The house has been preserved largely as it was during the Evers family's occupancy, offering a tangible connection to this pivotal period in American history.

Nearby Landmarks

• Mississippi Civil Rights Museum - 4.5km Northeast
• Museum of Mississippi History - 4.5km Northeast
• Old Capitol Museum - 4.8km Northeast
• State Capitol Building - 5.0km Northeast