Siege and Battle of Corinth
Various locations in and around the town of Corinth, Corinth, MSListed in National Register of Historic Places in 1991.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
In the early 1800s, European settlers began to arrive in the area, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. Alcorn County was officially established on April 15, 1870, during the Reconstruction era. Corinth, now the county seat, became a major economic and transportation hub due to its strategic location along the Memphis and Charleston Railroad.
During the Civil War, Alcorn County played a significant role as it was a key battleground during the Battle of Corinth in 1862. This battle, which resulted in Union victory, brought devastating destruction to the area and marked a turning point in the war. Following the war, the county slowly recovered and experienced growth as the railroad industry expanded and brought new opportunities for trade and commerce.
Throughout the 20th century, Alcorn County continued to develop. The county's agricultural sector thrived, with cotton and corn as major crops in the early years. Over time, manufacturing industries emerged, including furniture production and textile mills, contributing to the region's economic stability. Today, Alcorn County remains a vibrant community, preserving its history while also embracing modern advancements in technology, education, and healthcare.
Alcorn County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Alcorn County, Mississippi.
- 1817: Alcorn County was founded and named after James L. Alcorn, a governor of Mississippi.
- 1836: Mississippian Indians were removed from the area via the Treaty of Pontotoc Creek.
- 1870: Corinth was designated as the county seat.
- 1862: The Battle of Corinth took place during the American Civil War.
- 1920s: The county experienced an economic boom due to the rise of the railroad industry.
- 1944: The Tennessee Valley Authority dammed the nearby Tennessee River, creating Pickwick Lake.
- 1990: Corinth National Cemetery was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- 2009: The Northeast Mississippi Community College opened a branch campus in Corinth.