Jackson, MS…The Mississippi Museum of Art (MMA/the Museum) today confirmed its acquisition of Fountainhead, the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed property in Jackson’s Fondren neighborhood following approval by the Jackson Planning and Zoning Board and City Council. The residence and its furnishings were designed by the renowned architect in 1948, and completed in 1954 for J. Willis Hughes, who lived in the home with his family until 1980.
The single-family home was next purchased by the late architect Robert Parker Adams who spent years restoring it. In June, Crescent Sotheby’s
International Realty listed the property. On the National Registry of Historic Places since 1980, it was originally named the Hughes House but is also known as Fountainhead because it is believed Ayn Rand’s novel “The Fountainhead” was based on Wright’s life. Also, due to the level changes afforded by the site’s sloping topography, Wright extended the bedroom wing into the landscape with a fountain that feeds into a swimming pool that, in turn, feeds into a stream.
Lisa Percy, MMA Board of Trustees Chair said, “This strategic acquisition is not only about preserving a culturally and historically important site—it is also a forward-thinking investment in the Museum’s vision for the future. Like Eudora Welty’s House and Garden and the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Home, Fountainhead will become a must-see destination and unique experience for residents of and visitors to Jackson…