House at 200 East Franklin Street

Clarke County, Mississippi has a rich history that begins with the presence of indigenous tribes, including the Choctaw and Chickasaw nations. European settlers arrived in the area in the early 19th century, and the county was officially established in 1833. It was named after General John Clarke, who served in the War of 1812 and later became governor of Georgia.

During the antebellum period, Clarke County thrived economically with the development of agriculture, particularly cotton plantations. The county's fertile soil and access to transportation routes, such as the Chickasawhay River, helped fuel the growth of the plantation system. However, this prosperity came at the expense of enslaved African Americans who were forced to work on these plantations.

The Civil War had a significant impact on Clarke County, as it did on many areas of the South. Like much of Mississippi, the county was ravaged by the conflict, with many homes and farms destroyed. After the war, Clarke County faced the challenges of Reconstruction, including the loss of the plantation system and the struggle to redefine its economy and social structure. Agriculture remained a dominant industry, but small-scale farming and timber operations became more common.

In the 20th century, Clarke County experienced a shift from an agrarian to a more industrial and diverse economy. Lumber mills became a major industry, along with the production of turpentine and agricultural products like poultry and timber. Clarke County also played a role in the civil rights movement, with local activists working for desegregation and equal rights for African Americans. Today, Clarke County continues to navigate the complexities of the modern era while striving to preserve its historical heritage and foster economic growth for its residents.