PRE-STATEHOOD 21 KINGS TAVERN, NATCHEZ Kings Tavern, circa 1789, is the oldest standing building in the Mississippi Territory. This building served as the first post office for Natchez, and was also a tavern and inn. The owner, Richard King, was a distinguished businessman in the 1700s. Kings Tavern was constructed with beams from scrapped New Orleans sailing ships that were brought to Natchez on mule wagons and lumber from flatboats. Located on the corner of Jefferson and North Rankin in downtown Natchez, the tavern continues to fly the flags of Spain, Britain, France, and the United States. All of these countries have been in charge of the land that now comprises the state of Mississippi. Today, the building is a popular restaurant and bar. PHOTO BY GREG CAMPBELL