The story of America is usually told through the lives of rich and powerful people, but an important part of the American experience is the story of common men and women whose determination, hard work and ideals helped define the American Dream.

Pleasant Reed (1854-1936) was a former slave who overcame incredible odds in making his contribution to American history. He built an historic sidehall camelback shotgun house with his own hands in 1887. Today, the house is situated on the future site of the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art. Authentic furnishings from the early 1900s take visitors back to another era.

The Pleasant Reed House and the Pleasant Reed story itself are cultural and educational resources that help tell the story of a modest but remarkable man who was part of Biloxi’s diverse cultural legacy.

Telephone: 228-374-5547

Address: 386 Beach Blvd. Biloxi, MS

Winter Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Admission: Adults, $6; Seniors, $5; and free for members, students and children under 12.
(An $8 combo ticket includes admission to the Pleasant Reed House and Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art.)

Web Site: www.georgeohr.org/collections/

E-mail: dora@georgeohr.org