NATCHEZ — Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens is shining like diamonds among hotels across the South.

The luxury inn on John A. Quitman Boulevard in Natchez has been awarded the Four Diamond Rating by AAA for the 39th year, the longest of any Southern hotel according to AAA.

For more than 80 years, AAA has used professional inspectors to conduct in-person property evaluations in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. A four diamond award is given to hotels that AAA identifies with extensive amenities and a high degree of hospitality, service and attention to detail. Of the more than 27,000 hotels surveyed last year, only 6.3 percent are awarded a four diamond rating.

“Four Diamond-rated hotels are stylish and refined with upscale physical attributes,” the AAA letter of recognition said. “Guests receive personalized attention from an experienced staff enhancing an extensive array of amenities in a luxurious setting.”

The commendation is the most recent in a series of notable distinctions for the Monmouth Historic Inn. In 2018, the historic property celebrated its milestone 200th year and was again named the No. 1 Best Hotel in Mississippi by US News and World Report. In October 2017, the inn was named third best hotel in the South by Condé Nast Traveler.

“Our mission has always been to preserve this incredible historic property,” owner Nancy Reuther said. “Our staff is committed to maintaining the beauty of this estate and continuing its legacy into the future. We are proud to provide a gold standard of hospitality and service in Mississippi and the Southern United States.”

The 26-acre property was purchased by Nancy and Warren Reuther seven years ago, when they feared for the future of the historic building. Built in 1818 by Mr. and Mrs. John Hankinson from Monmouth County, NJ, the estate has been named a national historic landmark.

“This house has quite an amazing history, having seen several periods of restoration over the past two centuries,” Reuther said. “It’s our mission to continue those historic renovations and welcome travelers from all over the world to experience the beauty and high quality service that the Monmouth Historic Inn & Gardens offers.”