Historical Marker

Amite Female Seminary

Marker installed: 2010
Marker provided by: Mississippi Department of Archives and History.

Since 1949 the State Historical Marker program has identified and interpreted historic sites across Mississippi. More than one thousand markers can be found near buildings, battlefields, cemeteries, churches, temples, forts, homes, schools, and abandoned towns.

For tourists the markers may be their only glimpses into the state’s rich and varied history. For Mississippi communities the markers can be points of pride that memorialize locally important people and events.

State Historical Markers are privately sponsored and funded. Anyone may sponsor a marker. To qualify a site must have unique historical significance to the local community, the state, or the nation.

In 1962, the University of Mississippi, located in Oxford, was the site of a violent confrontation between federal forces and white segregationists over the enrollment of James Meredith, the university's first African American student.
Mississippi random facts
Amite County, Mississippi, has a rich history that dates back to the early colonial period. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Choctaw and Chickasaw, who lived off the land and utilized the plentiful resources of the region. In the 18th century, French explorers arrived, followed by Spanish settlers who established missions in the area.

In 1798, Amite County was officially established as a part of the Mississippi Territory. The county's name is derived from the French word for friendship, reflecting the peaceful relationships between the early settlers and the Native American tribes. Throughout the early 19th century, the population of Amite County grew steadily, mainly due to the influx of settlers from the surrounding states.

During the American Civil War, Amite County played a significant role as the site of several military skirmishes. The county saw both Union and Confederate forces vying for control of the region, resulting in considerable damage to property and the economy. Many residents also joined the Confederate Army, contributing to the war effort.

In the post-war era, Amite County underwent a period of reconstruction and economic development. Agriculture, primarily centered around cotton production, remained a key industry, with many plantations operating in the area. However, by the mid-20th century, changes in agricultural practices and socio-economic shifts led to a decline in farming in Amite County. Today, the county has diversified its economy to include other industries such as manufacturing, timber, and retail, while also valuing its historical roots.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Amite County, Mississippi.

  • 1799: Amite County is established as a county in the Mississippi Territory.
  • 1812: Mississippi becomes the 20th state of the United States, including Amite County.
  • 1815: The first courthouse in Amite County is built.
  • 1861-1865: Amite County actively participates in the American Civil War.
  • 1904: The town of Liberty is incorporated.
  • 1906: The Illinois Central Railroad begins running through Amite County, boosting its economy.
  • 1934: A tornado strikes Amite County, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1984: The Liberty Agricultural Educational Center is established, focusing on promoting agricultural education and innovation.
  • 1987: The Amite County Courthouse is added to the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2013: Amite County celebrates its bicentennial anniversary.