Mississippi has a rich history and unique culture in the Southern United States. Mississippi has a lot to offer from its role in the Civil War to its rich literary traditions. In this article, we will explore some interesting facts about Mississippi.
- Mississippi is named after the Mississippi River
The name Mississippi is derived from the Ojibwe word “misi-ziibi,” meaning “Great River” or “gathering of waters.” The state’s name was chosen because of its proximity to the Mississippi River, which forms the western boundary of the state. The second-longest river in the United States, stretching 2,320 miles from Minnesota to the Gulf of Mexico.
- Mississippi is home to the Natchez Trace Parkway
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic road that stretches 444 miles from Natchez, Mississippi, to Nashville, Tennessee. The road follows the historic Natchez Trace, a trail used by Native Americans and later by settlers traveling from the Mississippi River to the Tennessee River. Today, the parkway is a popular destination for tourists, hikers, and bikers.
- Mississippi was a major site of the Civil Rights Movement
Mississippi played a central role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. The state was known for its segregationist policies and violent opposition to desegregation. Some of the key events in the Civil Rights Movement that took place in Mississippi include the murder of Emmett Till, the Freedom Summer of 1964, and the assassination of civil rights leader Medgar Evers.
- Mississippi is home to the world’s largest cactus plantation
The world’s largest cactus plantation is located in Edwards, Mississippi. The plantation covers over 20 acres and features over 3,000 species of cacti from around the world. The plantation is open to the public for tours and is a popular destination for plant enthusiasts.
- Mississippi is the birthplace of blues music
Blues music, one of the most important and influential genres of American music, has its roots in Mississippi. Many of the great blues musicians, including B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Robert Johnson, were born or lived in Mississippi. The state has a rich musical heritage and is home to many blues festivals and events throughout the year.
- Mississippi is the fattest state in America
According to a 2021 report by WalletHub, Mississippi is the fattest state in America, with the highest percentage of obese adults. The report also found that Mississippi has one of the country’s highest rates of physical inactivity. However, the state has made efforts to promote healthy living, including initiatives to increase access to healthy food and encourage physical activity.
- Mississippi has a rich literary tradition
Mississippi has produced some of American literature’s most important and influential writers. William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, and Tennessee Williams are just a few of the many writers who have called Mississippi home. The state has a strong storytelling tradition and is known for its rich, lyrical language.
- Mississippi is home to the Vicksburg National Military Park
The Vicksburg National Military Park is located in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and commemorates the Siege of Vicksburg during the American Civil War. The park features monuments, memorials, and exhibits that tell the story of the siege, which lasted from May 18 to July 4, 1863. The park is a popular destination for history buffs and Civil War enthusiasts.
- Mississippi is known for its seafood
Mississippi’s proximity to the Gulf of Mexico makes it a prime location for seafood. The state is known for its shrimp, oysters, and catfish, which are often used in traditional Southern dishes like gumbo and fried seafood platters. One of the most popular seafood restaurants in the state is the famous Mary Mahoney’s in Biloxi, which has been serving up fresh seafood since 1964.
- Mississippi is the birthplace of Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley, one of the most iconic figures in American music, was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, in 1935. The house where he was born has been preserved and turned into a museum that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The state is also home to the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum in Tupelo and the Elvis Presley Memorial Chapel in Meridian.
- Mississippi is home to the oldest continuously operating courthouse in the United States
The Claiborne County Courthouse in Port Gibson, Mississippi, is the oldest continuously operating courthouse in the United States. The courthouse was built in 1811 and has been in use ever since. It is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Mississippi is the birthplace of the Teddy Bear
The Teddy Bear, one of the most beloved children’s toys, was named after President Theodore Roosevelt, often called “Teddy.” The toy was created in 1902 by Morris Michtom, a Russian immigrant living in Brooklyn, New York. Michtom was inspired to create the toy after seeing a cartoon of Roosevelt refusing to shoot a bear on a hunting trip in Mississippi.
- Mississippi is known for its hot tamales
Hot tamales, a spicy Mexican dish, have become a staple of Mississippi cuisine. The dish is made by stuffing cornmeal dough with meat and spices, rolling it up, and steaming or boiling it. Mississippi-style hot tamales are often served with chili or hot sauce and are a popular snack or party food in the state.
- Mississippi is home to the largest Bible manufacturing plant in the world
The Thomson-Shore Bible plant in Jackson, Mississippi, is the largest Bible manufacturing plant in the world. The plant produces over 25 million Bibles each year and employs hundreds of workers. The plant uses state-of-the-art technology to print, bind, and package Bibles for distribution around the world.
- Mississippi is the birthplace of the World’s Largest Cedar Bucket
The World’s Largest Cedar Bucket is located in the small town of Collins, Mississippi. The bucket stands over 17 feet tall and was built in 1976 as a tribute to the town’s logging industry. The bucket is made of cedar and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area.
- The tallest building in Mississippi is the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino
Located in Biloxi, the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino is not only the tallest building in Mississippi, but it is also one of the most iconic landmarks of the state. The 32-story tower features over 1,700 guest rooms, a casino, a theater, and several restaurants and bars.
- Mississippi is the Magnolia State
Mississippi is known as the Magnolia State because of its abundance of magnolia trees. The Magnolia is also the state flower of Mississippi and is featured prominently on the state flag.
- Mississippi is home to the International Checker Hall of Fame
The International Checker Hall of Fame is located in Petal, Mississippi, and is dedicated to the game of checkers. The Hall of Fame features exhibits on the history of checkers, famous players, and the strategy of the game. It also hosts tournaments and other events for checkers enthusiasts.
- Mississippi is a major producer of catfish
Mississippi is one of the top producers of farm-raised catfish in the United States. Catfish farming is a major industry in the state, with over 150,000 acres of catfish ponds. Mississippi’s catfish farms produce over 200 million pounds of catfish each year.
- The Mississippi River is the longest river in the United States
The Mississippi River is the longest river in the United States, stretching over 2,300 miles from its source in Minnesota to its mouth in the Gulf of Mexico. The river has played an important role in the history and economy of the United States, serving as a major transportation route for goods and people.
- Mississippi is home to the Neshoba County Fair
The Neshoba County Fair, located in Philadelphia, Mississippi, is one of the oldest and largest county fairs in the United States. The fair features a variety of events, including horse racing, beauty pageants, and agricultural exhibits. It is also known for its political speeches, which have been a tradition since the late 1800s.
- The Mississippi State Capitol is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts
The Mississippi State Capitol, located in Jackson, Mississippi, is a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture. The building was completed in 1903 and features a stunning rotunda, marble floors, and intricate murals and statues.
- Mississippi is home to the largest casino resort in the United States
The WinStar World Casino and Resort, located in Choctaw, Mississippi, is the largest casino resort in the United States. The resort features over 600,000 square feet of gaming space, as well as several hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- The Mississippi Gulf Coast is a popular tourist destination
The Mississippi Gulf Coast, stretching 62 miles along the state’s southern edge, is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, casinos, and seafood. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and water sports, as well as explore historic towns and landmarks.
- The Mississippi State Fair is one of the oldest in the country
The Mississippi State Fair, held annually in Jackson, Mississippi, is one of the oldest state fairs in the country, dating back to 1859. The fair features a variety of agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and carnival rides.
- Mississippi was the site of the first successful oil well in the United States
The first successful oil well in the United States was drilled in 1859 in Natchez, Mississippi. The discovery of oil in Mississippi led to the development of the state’s oil industry, which continues to be an important part of its economy.
- The Mississippi State University is home to the famous Maroon Band
The Mississippi State University is home to the Famous Maroon Band, one of the oldest and largest marching bands in the country. The band has performed at presidential inaugurations, NFL games, and other major events.
- Mississippi is known for its delicious southern cuisine
Mississippi is known for its delicious southern cuisine, including dishes like fried chicken, barbecue, and pecan pie. The state is also famous for its seafood, with dishes like crawfish étouffée, shrimp and grits, and fried catfish.
- The University of Mississippi is home to the famous Grove
The University of Mississippi, located in Oxford, is home to the famous Grove, a 10-acre park on campus that is a popular spot for tailgating and socializing before football games. The Grove is also known for its oak trees, which are over 150 years old.
- The Biloxi Lighthouse is a historic landmark
The Biloxi Lighthouse, located in Biloxi, is a historic landmark in operation since 1848. The lighthouse has survived numerous hurricanes and has become a symbol of resilience for the community.
- Mississippi is a leader in energy production
Mississippi is a leader in energy production, with various energy sources including natural gas, coal, and nuclear power. The state also invests in renewable energy, with wind and solar power becoming increasingly popular.
- The Mississippi Petrified Forest is a unique natural wonder
The Mississippi Petrified Forest in Flora, Mississippi, is a unique natural wonder featuring a collection of ancient petrified trees. Visitors can take a guided tour through the forest and learn about the area’s geological history.
In this article, we covered 32 amazing facts on Mississippi. Keep learning!
I’m a former teacher (and mother of Two Childs) with a background in child development. Here to help you with play-based learning activities for kids. ( Check my Next startup Cledemy.Com)
