Kat’s Country Cottage

Delve into a bygone era, when life was simpler, and family ties were the fabric of society. Step into our Historic Kat’s Cottage (just 5 miles from downtown Laurel), a treasured family home nestled in the heart of Mississippi's Jones County. This home stands as a tribute to the Boutwell family, pioneers of the region, and to the rich tapestry of stories woven through the generations.

Property Overview
Originally built in 1950, this charming 3-bedroom house was lovingly constructed under the guidance of Henry Fall and George F. Bridges. While it retains its original rustic charm, modern amenities have been seamlessly incorporated for your comfort. The home is part of an 80-acre estate, affording you privacy, tranquility, and an abundance of natural beauty.
History of the House and its Owners
Built under the guidance of Henry Fall in 1950, the home was a labor of love by George F. Bridges and his brothers, who were instrumental in its construction. Over the years, the house underwent additions and renovations, including the construction of a new bathroom in 2023.

The Boutwell family, who have held the land since the mid-1800s, are deeply rooted in the rich history of Mississippi and Jones County. George F. Bridges, a proud member of this family, left to fight in the Korean War soon after the house's completion, leaving behind his wife Kathleen, a registered nurse, and their first child. After George's early demise, Kathleen single-handedly raised their three children and managed a poultry farm, a testament to her resilient spirit.
Kathleen's life is filled with remarkable stories, from bringing home an abandoned baby from the hospital to stepping into a parking lot dispute to protect a child. These tales speak volumes about her courage, empathy, and indomitable spirit. Today, she is remembered as a legend by those who knew her.

Features
• Modern bathroom and kitchen with essential appliances
• Comfortable accommodation for a group with various sleeping arrangements
• High-speed WiFi for your browsing needs
• Air conditioning for those warm Mississippi days
• A secure property with surveillance cameras
• Long-term stay options for those who can't bear to leave
• Pet-friendly (we welcome well-trained, house-trained dogs!)

Unique Experiences
Every corner of the Homestead tells a tale. You'll find artifacts from bygone days, such as the antique shadowbox with insights into Jones County's medical history, and pictures depicting family and local history.
Take a leisurely walk around the property and discover the original chicken coop, over a hundred years old, moved by tractor from an uncle's property. Further exploration will reveal the remains of a poultry house, a testament to the family's industrious nature.
Relax on the front porch with a cup of coffee as you gaze upon the swayback barn built in 1965, constructed from reclaimed wood from Laurel’s old cotton gin. Or wander to the cane grinder where the original Boutwell plantation home once stood. These structures serve as silent witnesses to the industriousness of a family determined to create a life from the land they loved.

Activities on Property
Kat loved this land. She could be seen often picking fruits from the many fruit trees, and washing them in the garden shack, walking trails, or fishing at the pond, watching the birds and wildlife. We want to give guest these same experiences so here are a list of activities you can enjoy.

• Pick your own fruits (figs, pears, blueberries) when in season.
• Fishing
• Walking trails
• Watching wildlife
• Making Ice Cream
• Cooking
• Relax Countryside on front Patio

Local Attractions
• Historic Laurel Downtown Shopping and Restaurants
• Laurel Mercantile and Scotsman
• HAND+made (Best Lemonade)
• Landrum’s Country
• David’s Grocery (2 miles away and have great burgers and breakfast)
• Home Town tours (golf cart and Limo tours)
• Longleaf Tea company just couple miles away

House Rules
• No Smoking
• No Parties

Why Choose Us?
By choosing to stay with us, you are not merely booking a place to rest your head. You are embarking on a journey through history, a sojourn through a life richly lived. You are becoming a part of our story, even as you create your own. And above all, you are experiencing the legendary Southern hospitality that Kathleen Boutwell-Bridges embodied throughout her life.
Welcome to our home. We can't wait to share our past with you, as you create your own memories that will form the pathway to your future.