Built in 1857-59 to serve as an astronomical observatory at the University of Mississippi, this National Register building accommodated a variety of users before falling into deplorable disrepair. The exterior was restored to its original condition and the interior was renovated to accommodate the modern requirements of the Center for the Study of Southern Culture.

The Restoration of Barnard Observatory has received an Honor Award from the National Trust for Historic Preservation (1995); the Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts (1993); a Certificate of Commendation from the American Association for State and Local History (1993); an Honor Award from AIA/Mississippi (1993); and an Award of Merit from the Mississippi Historical Society (1993).


Barnard Observatory Website