Lee County, Mississippi
Baldwyn Historic District
Brices Cross Roads National Battlefield Site
Burrow, Barlow, House
Carnation Milk Plant
Clark, R.C., House
Downtown Tupelo Historic District
First Methodist Church
Goodlett, R. F., House
Highland Circle Historic District
Lee County Courthouse
Mill Village Historic District
North Broadway Historic District
North Church Primary School
Old Superintendent's House, Tupelo Fish Hatchery
Peoples Bank and Trust Company
South Church Street Historic District
Spain House
Spight, F. L., House
Stewart-Anderson House
Tombigbee State Park
Tupelo Homesteads
Tupelo National Battlefield
Battle of Ackia
Bethany A.R.P. Church
Bethany A.R.P. Church
Birthplace of Elvis Presley
Brice's Crossroads
Brices Crossroads
Carver School/Desegregation of Schools Across the South
Chief Tishomingo Home Site
Elvis Country
Elvis Presley and the Blues
F.W. Woolworth/Sit-In to Civil Rights Act of 1964
First Presbyterian Church (USA)
Front Street/The Iron Furnace
Green Street Business District/Social Hub
James Harrison "Babe" McCarthy
John E. Rankin
Plank Road/The Tupelo Swamp
Private John Allen
Robins Field/High School Football During Segregation
Shake Rag (Shakerag)
Shake Rag and Urban Renewal/A Way of Life
Spring Hill Missionary Baptist Church/A Strong Voice in the Civil Rights Struggle in Tupelo
The Battle of King's Creek/The Campaign to Take Vicksburg
The Dixie Belle Theater/The March of Discontent
The Younger Cabin/Confederate Headquarters
Town Creek Tupelo Encampment/Camp Life in Tupelo
Tupelo Baptist Church/Kind Treatment for the Wounded
Verona
The county was officially established in 1866 and named after General Robert E. Lee, the renowned Confederate commander. During the Civil War, Lee County played a significant role as it was located on the strategic Memphis and Charleston Railroad. The county saw numerous clashes and skirmishes between Union and Confederate forces, resulting in significant damage to the area.
Following the war, Lee County began to rebuild and transition into an agricultural economy. With the introduction of improved farming techniques and the expansion of railroads, cotton production flourished, making it a dominant industry in the region. The county became home to many cotton plantations and attracted a large population of African American laborers.
In the 20th century, Lee County experienced further growth and development. Tupelo, the county seat, emerged as a major commercial and industrial center. The area became known for its manufacturing industries, with furniture and textile factories playing a significant role in the local economy.
Today, Lee County continues to prosper and evolve. It is known for its cultural heritage, including the birthplace of legendary musician Elvis Presley. The county boasts a mix of rural and urban areas, with a thriving economy, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. The history of Lee County is a testament to its resilience and determination in overcoming challenges and embracing progress.
Brief timeline of the history of Lee County, Mississippi:
- 1866: Lee County is established
- 1870: The county seat is established in Tupelo
- 1870s: Tupelo experiences rapid growth due to the railroad industry
- 1886: The first courthouse is built in Tupelo
- 1936: The Battle of Tupelo takes place during the American Civil War
- 1937: The Elvis Presley Birthplace is built in Tupelo
- 1960s: Tupelo becomes an important hub for the furniture industry
- 1994: Tupelo is struck by a devastating tornado, causing significant damage
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lee County, Mississippi.