Barnard Observatory

Barnard Observatory is an astronomical building at the University of Mississippi constructed between 1857 and 1859 in Greek Revival architectural style. The structure features two stories with a distinctive central dome that was designed to accommodate telescopes and observation equipment.

The observatory was founded by Chancellor Frederick Barnard with the goal of advancing scientific research at the institution. During the Civil War, it served as a hospital for soldiers from both Union and Confederate forces who occupied the town.

The building holds meaning in the university community as a symbol of early scientific aspirations in the South. Visitors can sense how this place once represented the institution's effort to position itself among leading research centers of its time.

The building is located on the University of Mississippi campus and is now home to the Center for the Study of Southern Culture. Visitors should know that access may depend on the current academic activities and uses happening within the space.

The building was designed to house a telescope that would have been larger than those at Harvard, but the Civil War disrupted those plans. The intended instrument was eventually sold to Northwestern University instead of remaining at Mississippi.

Location: Oxford

Inception: 1850s

Architectural style: Greek Revival architecture

Floors above the ground: 2

Part of: University of Mississippi

GPS coordinates: 34.36611,-89.53444

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:40