Ten key places to visit in Marion County and celebrate black history.

Marion County, Mississippi, is rich in African American history, offering several sites that highlight the resilience, culture, and contributions of Black communities. Here are ten notable places to visit:

1. Lampton Rural Center: Established in 1949, this community center, located four miles south of Columbia, was the first of its kind in Mississippi. It served as a hub for the largest Black community in the state, featuring a gymnasium, library, and activity rooms. 

2. Expose Community: First listed in the Negro Year Book of 1914-1915, Expose is an unincorporated area in Marion County that reflects the establishment of Black communities post-Emancipation. 

3. Baylis Chapel Methodist Church: Dating back to the late 1880s, this church stands on land donated by George Baylis in 1882. It remains a testament to the enduring faith and community spirit of African Americans in the region. 

4. Marion County Archives: For those interested in genealogy and local history, this digital repository offers resources pertaining to African American heritage in the county. 

5. Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection: The museum houses photographs from the ‘Marion County Mississippi: 1970-1971’ series by Martha Olson, providing visual insights into the county’s Black history. 

6. Mississippi Civil Rights Museum: Located in Jackson, this museum documents the state’s pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. While not in Marion County, it’s a significant site for understanding the broader context of African American history in Mississippi. 

7. Mississippi Freedom Trail: This trail features over 25 sites across the state that were instrumental during the Civil Rights Movement. Exploring these sites offers a deeper appreciation of the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in Mississippi. 

8. Local Oral Histories: Engaging with local historians or visiting community centers can provide access to oral histories and personal narratives that enrich the understanding of Marion County’s Black heritage.

9. African American Cemeteries: Visiting historic African American cemeteries in the county can offer insights into genealogical lineages and the legacy of Black families in the region.

10. Annual Cultural Events: Participating in local events celebrating African American culture, such as Juneteenth celebrations or Black History Month programs, provides a contemporary connection to the county’s rich heritage.

Exploring these sites and resources offers a comprehensive understanding of Marion County’s African American history and the enduring contributions of its Black communities.