National Register Listings in

Leake County, Mississippi

Leake County, located in central Mississippi, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back to prehistoric times. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Choctaw and Chickasaw, who thrived on the county's abundant natural resources. The arrival of European settlers in the 19th century brought significant changes to the region.

In the early 1800s, the United States government signed treaties with the Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes, resulting in the forced removal and resettlement of these indigenous populations. This paved the way for white settlers to claim the land for agricultural purposes. Leake County was officially established in 1833 and named after Walter Leake, the governor of Mississippi at the time.

The county experienced rapid growth in the mid-19th century, becoming a hub for the cotton industry. Large plantations were established, and thousands of enslaved Africans were forced to work in the fields. The Civil War had a profound impact on Leake County, like many other parts of the South, as battles and skirmishes were fought here, and many residents served in Confederate armies.

Post-war Reconstruction brought significant social and economic changes to Leake County. Sharecropping became a common practice, enabling many former slaves and poor white farmers to access land and resources. The county also saw the construction of railroads and the emergence of small towns and communities, which further fueled its agricultural and economic development. Despite periods of economic hardship and racial tensions, the county continues to thrive and maintain a strong sense of community today.