Video: Preparation for Columbus Pilgrimage in Full Swing

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – Spring is here and that means it’s time for the Annual Columbus Spring Pilgrimage. The citywide event attracts hundreds of visitors from around the world each year.

“I guess I must love it. It’s lots and lots and lots of hard work but you get used to it,” says Grayce Hicks, who owns the Rosewood Manor with her husband, Dewitt Hicks.

Grayce and Dewitt Hicks have participated in the Columbus Spring Pilgrimage for nearly 40 years. Now they’re preparing once again to give tourists a peek into their antebellum home built in 1835.

“I love sharing with people. I love meeting the people that come through our home. They are so appreciative that it makes it all worthwhile,” says Hicks.

Hicks says preparation includes sprucing up the yard, as well as cleaning the fountain and covered buggie for the Spring Pilgrimage. One of the main attractions at the Rosewood Manor is the wedding chapel.

“We have a 125 year old chapel which we moved from Baldwin, MS. My husband, when we walked in, it was all run down and my husband said I want this. It’s been a blessing to us. We’ve had 16 weddings in that chapel and I always say a prayer for everybody who comes in the chapel on tours,” says Hicks.

The Rosewood Manor will be available for tours starting Tuesday, April 1st at from 9am til noon. The Columbus Spring Pilgrimage begins this Friday with a floral design presentation at the Trotter Center.