The Mississippi Riverfront in Natchez has a rich and varied history. It has experienced natural disasters, such as the deadly tornado in 1840, which destroyed the city and killed hundreds of people. However, the town was rebuilt, and new industries like rail service grew rapidly, leading to the construction of several railroad depots along the bluff. The Blue Cat Club, now located behind you, has also been a part of the riverfront's history, hosting the first professional performance of the rock and roll legend Jerry Lee Lewis at 13.
The decline of the steamboat era caused Natchez Under-the-Hill to lose its importance, with most businesses focusing on the ferry that operated between Natchez and Vidalia from 1900 to 1940. After constructing a bridge in 1940, Natchez Under-the-Hill became almost a ghost town. However, the area experienced a resurgence in the 1970s thanks to growing interest in historical tourism and steamboat travel. Legal gambling also returned to the waterfront in 1990, bringing new visitors.
Today, visitors to the Mississippi Riverfront in Natchez can explore the city's rich history by visiting its many historic buildings and museums, including the Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture, the Rosalie Mansion, and the William Johnson House. They can also enjoy the many restaurants and shops that line the riverfront and take a stroll along the riverbank, taking in the picturesque views of the mighty Mississippi River.