Historical Marker

Henry Dee and Charles Moore

Marker installed: 2020
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.

During the Civil War, Mississippi was a major battleground and saw some of the bloodiest fighting of the entire conflict.
Mississippi random facts
Franklin County, located in the southwestern part of Mississippi, has a rich history that can be traced back to its earliest Native American inhabitants. The Choctaw tribe resided in the region prior to European contact, with evidence of settlements found in the area. However, the specific history of Franklin County began with the arrival of European settlers in the early 1800s.

In 1809, Franklin County was established as one of the original counties in Mississippi. The county was named in honor of Benjamin Franklin, a prominent American statesman. The settlers primarily engaged in agricultural activities, with cotton becoming the dominant crop. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century further contributed to the county's growth and prosperity.

During the American Civil War, Franklin County became an important site for both Union and Confederate forces. The county saw clashes and skirmishes between the two sides as they vied for control of the region. The war brought significant hardships to the county, with many lives lost and the local economy severely impacted.

After the war, Franklin County gradually began to recover and rebuild. Agriculture remained a vital part of the county's economy, with cotton production continuing to be the mainstay. Over time, the county embraced technological advancements and diversified its agricultural practices. Today, Franklin County has evolved into a vibrant community that celebrates its history while embracing modern opportunities for growth and development.

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

  • 1818: Franklin County, Mississippi is established.
  • 1821: The first courthouse is built in Meadville, the county seat.
  • 1830: The population of Franklin County reaches over 4,000.
  • 1840: William Barksdale, a future Confederate general, is born in Smyrna, Franklin County.
  • 1861: Franklin County supports secession and many residents join the Confederate Army.
  • 1892: A new courthouse is built to replace the original one.
  • 1944: The Homochitto National Forest is established in parts of Franklin County.
  • 1964: Civil rights activists visit Franklin County during the Freedom Summer to register African American voters.
  • 1990: Franklin County celebrates its bicentennial.
  • 2010: The population of Franklin County is over 8,000.