National Register Listing in
Quitman County, Mississippi

Mississippi is the birthplace of many famous authors, including William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, and Richard Wright.
Mississippi random facts
Quitman County is located in the northwestern part of Mississippi and has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was initially inhabited by indigenous Native American tribes, such as the Chickasaw and Choctaw, before European settlers arrived in the late 18th century. These settlers were primarily farmers attracted to the fertile soil along the Mississippi River.

The county was officially established in 1877 and named after John A. Quitman, a prominent politician and general during the Mexican–American War. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Quitman County thrived as an agricultural hub, with cotton becoming a dominant crop. The county's economy was driven by large plantations and the labor of African-American workers, who were subjected to the harsh conditions of the Jim Crow era.

Quitman County played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. It was the birthplace of Fannie Lou Hamer, a prominent activist and leader in the civil rights movement who fought for voting rights for African Americans. The county also saw numerous protests, demonstrations, and voter registration drives during this time.

In recent years, Quitman County has faced economic challenges, including a decline in population and industries. Efforts have been made to revitalize the county through the promotion of tourism, highlighting its historical and cultural significance. Today, Quitman County continues to preserve its heritage while striving for economic development and improved living conditions for its residents.

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

  • 1836 - Quitman County is created from portions of Coahoma, Panola, and Tunica counties.
  • 1838 - The county is named after John A. Quitman, a Mississippi politician and militia general.
  • 1840s - Settlement begins in Quitman County by European-American farmers, primarily from the southern United States.
  • 1860s - Quitman County is heavily impacted by the American Civil War, with many residents serving in the Confederate Army.
  • 1870s - Reconstruction era begins, bringing significant social and political changes to Quitman County.
  • 1880 - Greenville and Northwestern Railroad is completed, connecting Quitman County to Greenville and other cities in the region.
  • Early 20th century - Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, becomes a dominant industry in Quitman County.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression leads to economic hardships, affecting the farming community of Quitman County.
  • 1960s - Civil Rights Movement brings attention to racial inequality and segregation in Quitman County.
  • 1980s - Decline in agriculture and population begins, with many residents leaving for employment opportunities elsewhere.
  • 2000s - Efforts to revitalize the county's economy and infrastructure are made, focusing on tourism and attracting new industries.
  • Present - Quitman County continues to face challenges in terms of poverty, population decline, and economic development.