Mimosa Hall

One of Harrison County's earliest brick structures, Mimosa Hall represents a fine example of the Greek Revival plantation house of 19th century Texas. Nestled among numerous mimosa trees from which its name was derived, the imposing structure was constructed by John Johnston Webster to serve as the main house for his large plantation. The house has remained in the hands of Webster's descendants since its completion in 1844 and has served as an important social center in eastern Harrison County for many years.

John Johnston Webster, an affluent planter and builder, migrated to Harrison County in 1839. After acquiring large amounts of land, he and his slave-masons began constructing Mimosa Hall in 1840. His ability as a builder became known throughout the area and his talents were in great demand. Completion of Webster's own house was delayed when he and his slaves constructed a house for another Harrison County farmer/planter. Upon completion of this house in 1843, Webster turned once again to Mimosa Hall, and the following year, his home was finished.

The front facade has undergone little alteration since its completion; however, the replacement of the original second-story balcony with the "Jefferson Davis Balcony" has received considerable local attention. Attached to Mimosa Hall in 1932, the balcony was originally affixed to the Porterfield house in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Jefferson Davis delivered a major address from the balcony during the siege of Vicksburg and when it was attached to Mimosa Hall, it became known as the "Jefferson Davis Balcony."

Mimosa Hall has been the meeting place for numerous parties and social gatherings throughout the years. Jefferson Davis' birthday is celebrated annually at the building.
Because of the tradition associated with the building and the lack of major alterations to the front facade, Mimosa Hall has been featured in many county historical home tours and once provided the setting for a motion picture.