Historical Markers in
Holmes County, Mississippi

Bishop Charles H. Mason Castalian Springs Dr. Arenia Conelia Mallory Durant Elmore James First Boys' Corn Club 1907 Franklin Church Holmes County Blues Lexington Holmes County Blues Tchula Lexington O.E.S. Birthplace PFC Milton Lee Olive III Providence Farm St. Mary's Episcopal Church St. Paul Church of God in Christ Tchula
Mississippi played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Many of the most important events of the movement, including the Freedom Rides and the March Against Fear, took place in Mississippi.
Mississippi random facts
Holmes County, Mississippi, located in the central part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Choctaw and Chickasaw, who utilized the fertile lands for agriculture and hunting.

European explorers, such as Hernando de Soto, arrived in the area in the 16th century, establishing contact with the Native American populations. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that Holmes County was officially settled by European Americans. The region became a hub for cotton production, with wealthy plantation owners implementing slave labor to cultivate the land.

During the American Civil War, Holmes County, like many other southern regions, was heavily impacted by the conflict. The area saw military engagements and suffered significant economic and social disruptions as a result.

In the post-war period, Holmes County experienced a slow recovery and faced numerous challenges, such as the devastation caused by the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 and the economic struggles of the Great Depression. However, the resilience of the community allowed for progress in the mid-20th century, including improvements in infrastructure, educational opportunities, and civil rights.

Today, Holmes County continues to be predominantly rural with agriculture playing a significant role in the local economy. Efforts are being made to preserve and celebrate the area's history, including the establishment of museums and historical sites. The community remains vibrant and proud of its heritage, working toward a prosperous future while appreciating its past.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Holmes County, Mississippi.

  • 1833 - Holmes County is founded and named after Major General David Holmes, the first nonindigenous governor of Mississippi.
  • 1846 - Lexington becomes the county seat of Holmes County.
  • 1861-1865 - Holmes County experiences significant impact during the American Civil War as it becomes a main path of Union General William T. Sherman's famous "March to the Sea."
  • 1868 - Construction of the first courthouse in Lexington.
  • 1877 - The Yazoo and Mississippi Valley Railroad reaches Holmes County, bringing significant economic development to the area.
  • 1895 - The town of Tchula is incorporated.
  • 1898 - Holmes County Agricultural High School is established, later becoming Holmes County Community College.
  • 1908 - The town of Durant is incorporated.
  • 1943 - The Mississippi Rehabilitation Center is established in Holmes County.
  • 2007 - The Holmes County State Park opens to the public, offering outdoor recreational activities.