Window Shopping in Vicksburg

We had a little relief from the oppressive heat and humidity yesterday morning, and I headed for downtown Vicksburg to do a little window shopping with my camera before the shops opened. The quaint historical shopping district lines Washington Street for several blocks and is home to an amazing variety of shops, ranging from a few that look like they are straight out of the 1950s, to several beautiful upscale gift and clothing shops.

Washington Street

The buildings themselves are architectural wonders, with ornate iron and wood trim, and elaborate tile-patterned entrances welcoming you to shops that have long been gone.

This one is a work of art, composed of tiny tiles to create a mosaic pattern. Doesn't it look like a rug!

You don't see many shop entrances like those these days, not even at multi-million dollar shopping villages.

Now, are you ready for a little window shopping? You can click on the pictures to enlarge them, if you'd like to see the windows up close.

The first shop on my tour is Sassafras, a gift shop full of southern hospitality and beautiful accessories for your home. Established 18 years ago, it occupies two adjoining circa 1876 buildings.

Next to Sassafras is Peterson's Art & Antiques, which features a mix of new and old fine quality accessories and furniture. They also have an extensive art gallery featuring the works of local artists. I have a few of my photographs displayed at Peterson's and have actually sold a couple of things.

I've got to go back and get some of those Brown-Eyed Susans in the top left corner of this picture! They will be perfect for Fall.

One of my favorite shops in Vicksburg is The Cinnamon Tree. I love their home and garden accessories and every time I visit them, I can always find something I need, want, or have-to-have. They also have a wonderful selection of Vera Bradley items, lamps, candles, bath accessories, jewelry, and adorable outfits and shoes for children.

I love the reflection of the Mississippi flag in this first picture.

I'd like to have one of these little linen guest towels.

My next stop was Art and Soul, a unique shop that was once featured in an article in Southern Living. Art and Soul "salvages the past with one-of-a-kind gift and home accents ... an unleashed creative atmosphere offers affordable raw elements like beads, feathers, and architectural salvage to make your own inspired creation; or you can rely on Art and Soul to manage every detail of your hand-crafted gift or home accent."

The building itself is a work of art. Notice the stained glass over the windows ...

Isn't this arrangement gorgeous!

And I love this cross and pendant ...

I'm going to finish the rest of my window shopping tomorrow. I hope you will join me then to see more of the unique and quaint shops that are just one of the many, many reasons why ...