National Register Listing in Smith County, Mississippi
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.
About Smith County
Smith County Timeline
Smith County, Mississippi, has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. Once inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Choctaw Nation, the area was first explored by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. However, it wasn't until the early 19th century that European settlers began to establish permanent settlements in what is now Smith County.
The county was officially established on December 23, 1833, and was named after Major David Smith, a prominent figure in the area who served in the Mississippi Legislature. During its early years, Smith County's economy thrived on agriculture, with cotton being the dominant crop. The fertile soil provided the perfect conditions for cotton farming, and plantations began to sprout up across the county, relying heavily on slave labor.
The outbreak of the American Civil War in 1861 deeply affected Smith County. Many young men joined the Confederate Army, leaving behind their families and homes. The war brought devastation to the area, with battles fought nearby and Union troops occupying the county for a brief period. The end of the war brought significant changes to Smith County, as the economy shifted away from a reliance on slavery and the cotton industry.
In the early 20th century, Smith County began to see progress in various aspects of life. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought new opportunities for trade and transportation, boosting the county's economy. Schools were established, and community development flourished. Today, Smith County continues to be a vibrant community with a mix of agriculture, industry, and small-town charm, while also preserving its history through historic sites and landmarks.
The county was officially established on December 23, 1833, and was named after Major David Smith, a prominent figure in the area who served in the Mississippi Legislature. During its early years, Smith County's economy thrived on agriculture, with cotton being the dominant crop. The fertile soil provided the perfect conditions for cotton farming, and plantations began to sprout up across the county, relying heavily on slave labor.
The outbreak of the American Civil War in 1861 deeply affected Smith County. Many young men joined the Confederate Army, leaving behind their families and homes. The war brought devastation to the area, with battles fought nearby and Union troops occupying the county for a brief period. The end of the war brought significant changes to Smith County, as the economy shifted away from a reliance on slavery and the cotton industry.
In the early 20th century, Smith County began to see progress in various aspects of life. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s brought new opportunities for trade and transportation, boosting the county's economy. Schools were established, and community development flourished. Today, Smith County continues to be a vibrant community with a mix of agriculture, industry, and small-town charm, while also preserving its history through historic sites and landmarks.
Smith County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Smith County, Mississippi.
- Early 1800s: Smith County, Mississippi is originally inhabited by Choctaw Indians.
- 1811: The Mississippi Territory is established, which includes present-day Smith County.
- 1833: Smith County is officially established and named after Major David Smith, a state senator.
- Late 1800s: Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, becomes the dominant industry in the county.
- 1861-1865: Smith County, along with the rest of Mississippi, is heavily involved in the American Civil War.
- Early 1900s: The timber industry begins to thrive in Smith County.
- 1933: The Great Depression brings economic challenges to Smith County.
- 1949: The expansion of highway facilities leads to increased transportation and trade in the county.
- Late 1900s: The population of Smith County begins to steadily decline due to factors such as mechanized farming and urbanization.