
A Difference Maker
Happy 20th anniversary at Anchuca to Tom Pharr! The difference is in the details and you are a difference maker. You could live anywhere and design beautiful homes and work spaces, but we are glad that you chose this corner of the world. You see beauty behind what has been covered up and potential where there is a blank canvas. You are a great storyteller, sharing the history of our community in a way that draws people in and sends them out with a different view. You continually encourage others to join in the cause of historic preservation. In this one neighborhood, you have turned a garden into a gathering spot (with delicious food)! You have saved homes and reimagined them, including Springfield house. You have added five new homes that fit seamlessly into the fabric of the neighborhood, adding value to everyone else as well. You have donated your amazing talent for design to other areas of the city and given advice to many. Wish we had a photo of you working at Anchuca as a teenager to celebrate this milestone in your full circle story. We salute you and your tireless commitment!
The following article and photos appeared in The Vicksburg Post on July 18, 2021.



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Welcome, Neighbors!
In Springfield, one of Vicksburg’s most historic neighborhoods, named for its proximity to natural, freshwater springs in the area at the time, new construction homes are finding their niche for the first time in more than 75 years. With the completion of Springfield home in January 2009, Tom Pharr not only successfully relocated and repurposed a historic home marked for demolition, he began to reimagine a way to revitalize his beloved neighborhood. As owner of nearby Anchuca Historic Mansion and Inn, Pharr wanted to find a way to add value and bring new life to the historic area while also maintaining the historic integrity of the neighborhood. With decades of experience in designing beautiful homes, Pharr combined his talent of design, attention to detail, and love for his neighborhood into building what he calls “Springfield Cottages,” five new residences built on previously vacant lots on Cherry and First East streets.
In addition to adding value to current residences, this new construction has attracted more people to call this neighborhood home. Whether young professionals or ready-to-retire and downsize, these new homeowners can enjoy the benefits of living close to downtown and in the heart of Vicksburg’s unique and diverse mix of historic buildings.
This project was recently featured in a publication by the Vicksburg Post, called “Letters from Home: Stories of Vicksburg for Every Letter in the Alphabet” under “N” for neighborhood.