Historical Marker

Old Augusta

Marker installed: 1949
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 1963, civil rights activist Medgar Evers was assassinated outside his home in Jackson, Mississippi. His killer, Byron De La Beckwith, was not convicted until 1994.
Mississippi random facts
Perry County, Mississippi, located in the southeastern part of the state, has a rich history that can be traced back to the early Native American inhabitants. The first known settlers in the area were the Choctaw tribe, who lived off the land and utilized the natural resources for their sustenance. European explorers began arriving in the area in the 16th century, with Spanish conquistadors and French explorers being the first to establish contact with the Choctaw people.

In the early 19th century, Perry County became a part of the Mississippi Territory, which was occupied by settlers from various backgrounds. The development of transportation networks, such as the establishment of a stagecoach route through the county, helped foster growth and commerce in the area. The timber industry also played a significant role in the county's early economy, with sawmills and logging operations becoming prevalent.

During the Civil War, Perry County was deeply divided, with some residents supporting the Union and others favoring the Confederacy. The area witnessed numerous military engagements, with both sides vying for control over strategic points. Reconstruction after the war was a challenging time for the county, as it dealt with the aftermath of the conflict and sought to rebuild its economy.

In the 20th century, Perry County experienced changes brought about by technological advancements and modernization. The arrival of the railroad in the early 1900s enabled better transportation of goods and people, further boosting economic activities in the county. Over time, agriculture and the timber industry remained vital to the local economy, but new industries, such as manufacturing and services, also emerged. Today, Perry County continues to thrive as a community that embraces its history while embracing the opportunities of the modern world.

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

  • Perry County was established on December 21, 1820.
  • In 1821, the first courthouse was built in Augusta.
  • In 1823, the county seat was moved to Greenville (now New Augusta).
  • In 1828, the county seat was moved to Augusta.
  • In 1906, the county seat was moved back to New Augusta.
  • In the early 1900s, the timber industry brings prosperity to the county.
  • In 1944, Camp Shelby is established in neighboring Forrest County, bringing economic benefits to Perry County.
  • In 1966, Hurricane Camille causes significant damage to the county.
  • In the late 20th century, the county experiences growth in manufacturing and the establishment of new industries.
  • In 2019, the county celebrates its bicentennial.