Great Migration Initiative
Take an in-depth look at the Great Migration—the unprecedented movement of African Americans from the South in the first three-quarters of the twentieth century—through the lenses of history and art. The Mississippi Department of Archives and History (MDAH) and the Mississippi Museum of Art (MMA) are undertaking a year-long initiative in 2022 to expand understanding of the Great Migration and its impact on Mississippi and the nation.
Empowering people through Mississippi’s many stories.
That’s our vision at the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. We are here to help you explore and discover your Mississippi stories.
You can use this website, and our reading rooms in downtown Jackson, to:
- Research historical records, archival collections and special publications
- Discover historical sites and museums to visit all around the state
- Check out upcoming events, including our History is Lunch series
- Preserve Mississippi’s historic buildings and archaeological sites
- Download field trip guides, lesson plans, and teaching units
- View regulations for managing state and local government records
- Find out how to volunteer, donate, and more
The Foundation for Mississippi
Donate to the Foundation for Mississippi and support the newest addition to the Hall of Governors—the official portrait of Phil Bryant, the sixty-fourth governor of Mississippi. Located on the first floor of the Mississippi State Capitol, the Hall of Governors features portraits of the former governors of Mississippi since the creation of the Mississippi Territory in 1798 and the state in 1817.
Research
Discover your story. Search the ultimate primary resource of Mississippi’s historical documents, photos, videos, and more.
You can use our online collections, and the extensive resources at our reading rooms in downtown Jackson, to build your family tree, create an engaging presentation, or simply explore your Mississippi history.
Explore
Real stories, real places. Set out on a hands-on history adventure and discover the people and places that shaped your Mississippi.
MDAH welcomes curious visitors of all ages to more than a dozen museums, historic sites and cultural attractions throughout the state.
Preserve
Tell your story for generations to come. Mississippi is rich in architectural and archaeological history.
Donate
Leave a lasting legacy. Help preserve and share the stories of Mississippi. Discover the many meaningful ways to give to MDAH.
Volunteer
Be part of history. Volunteer with MDAH and help us preserve and connect Mississippi’s rich historic resources with people around the world.
Teachers & Students
Stories are for sharing. Help your students explore their Mississippi history from K-12 to college.
Discover ready-to-use field trip guides, professional development opportunities, a host of classroom resources and information on Mississippi History Day, our history-themed student competition.
News & Articles
MDAH offices, archives library, and Grand Village of the Natchez Indians will be closed Monday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day.
Mississippi Makers Fest will be back for its second year at the Two Mississippi Museums. The Mississippi Department of Archives and History announced today that after a successful first year, the music, food, and arts festival will return to Downtown Jackson on May 13, 2023.
Events
History Is Lunch: Fay Yarbrough, “Choctaw Confederates: The American Civil War in Indian Country”
Upcoming
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At noon on Wednesday, June 29, Fay Yarbrough will present “Choctaw Confederates: The American Civil War in Indian Countr
Storytime on the Side Porch
On Thursdays at 2 p.m., the Eudora Welty House & Garden will present free summer book readings and activities for children in partnership with
The Negro Motorist Green Book Exhibit Opening
The Negro Motorist Green Book special exhibit, created by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES), will open at t