Dr. Arenia Conelia Mallory
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.
Mississippi has a long history of political and social conservatism, and the state has consistently voted for Republican candidates in presidential elections since the 1980s. However, the state also has a strong Democratic Party tradition, particularly among African American voters.
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.
Holmes County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history 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.