National Register Listing

Laurel Central Historic District

Roughly bounded by Tenth and Thirteenth Sts., First Ave., Seventh and Fifth Sts., and Eighth Ave., Laurel, MS
Local significance of the district:
Commerce; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The famous blues guitarist Robert Johnson, who is often cited as a major influence on rock and roll, was born in Hazlehurst, Mississippi.
Mississippi random facts
Jones County, Mississippi has a rich and intriguing history that dates back to the early 19th century. The county was established on January 24, 1826, and named after John Paul Jones, an American naval hero of the Revolutionary War. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes including the Choctaw and Chickasaw.

One significant event in Jones County's history was its role in the American Civil War. Led by Newton Knight, a Jones County native, a group of Union sympathizers known as the "Knight Company" opposed the Confederacy and organized an armed resistance against Confederate soldiers. This rebellion attracted attention and sparked debates about the loyalty of Southern states during the war. The Free State of Jones, as it came to be known, was a symbol of resistance against the Confederacy.

After the Civil War, Jones County experienced economic growth with the rise of industries such as timber and agriculture. Lumber mills and sawmills were established, and the county became a major player in the timber industry. This growth led to the expansion of towns like Laurel and Ellisville, which became significant economic centers in the area.

In the 20th century, Jones County continued to develop and modernize. The establishment of Camp Shelby, a military training site, during World War II brought economic opportunities to the region. The county also saw advancements in education and healthcare, with the establishment of Jones County Junior College and South Central Regional Medical Center.

Today, Jones County, Mississippi remains a vibrant and growing community, known for its historical significance and contributions to industries like timber and agriculture. The county's rich history, spanning from the Civil War era to the present day, continues to shape its identity and culture.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Jones County, Mississippi.

  • 1819 - Jones County is established as a county in Mississippi.
  • 1840s - Early settlers arrive in Jones County, primarily from Georgia and the Carolinas.
  • 1860-1865 - Jones County becomes a hotbed of resistance during the American Civil War, with many residents opposing secession and forming the "Free State of Jones".
  • 1884 - The Mississippi Central Railroad opens in Jones County, boosting economic development in the area.
  • Early 1900s - The timber and lumber industries become major economic drivers in Jones County.
  • 1940s - Camp Shelby, a military training facility, is established in Jones County and becomes an important training center during World War II.
  • 1950s-1970s - Jones County experiences population growth and urbanization, with increased industrial and commercial development.
  • 1994 - The Mississippi Armed Forces Museum opens at Camp Shelby, showcasing the military history of the region.