Empowering people through Mississippi’s many stories is our vision.
Whether you are interested in researching Mississippi history, visiting historic places, preserving history, attending or sponsoring history-themed events, engaging students with history, properly managing government records or finding opportunities for volunteering, internships and careers, MDAH can connect you with the experiences and information you seek.
By preserving Mississippi’s diverse historic resources and sharing them with people around the world, MDAH inspires discovery of stories that connect our lives and shape our future.
Who We Are
The Mississippi Department of Archives and History was founded in 1902 to collect, preserve, and provide access to the archival resources of the state. Our commitment to preservation continues today through the work of the department’s five divisions.
MDAH is governed by a nine-member board of trustees whose president is Spence Flatgard of Ridgeland. Katie Blount has served as department director since February 2015.
Administration
Administration comprises human resources, financial services, operations, and information systems.
Archives and Records Services
Archives and Records Services oversees the state archives and public reading rooms, where documents, photographs, and other items from the state’s vast collection are made available free of charge to the public.
Historic Preservation
Historic Preservation works with property owners to preserve the state’s historic sites and structures.
Programs and Communication
Programs and Communication focuses on programming, education, public relations, and marketing for the entire department.
Museums
The Museum Division oversees the Museum of Mississippi History, Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, Eudora Welty House & Garden, Manship House Museum, Old Capitol Museum, and the historic section of the Mississippi Governor’s Mansion in Jackson; the Grand Village of the Natchez Indians in Natchez; Historic Jefferson College in Washington, and Winterville Mounds in Greenville.
News & Articles
A display of creepy dolls from the MDAH Collection opens Oct. 1 at the Two Mississippi Museums. The free monthlong display features six dolls from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century and provides an eerie glimpse into children’s playthings from the past.
Mississippi educators are encouraged to register now for the Mississippi Department of Archives and History’s free Fall Teacher Workshop, set for Nov. 7, at the Two Mississippi Museums.
The Mississippi Department of Archives and History (MDAH) has named Sarah Campbell as the new director of the Programs and Communications (P&C) Division and Shelia Byrd as the division’s new deputy director.
The Mississippi Historical Society (MHS) is pleased to announce a call for individual papers and complete panels on Mississippi history topics for its annual meeting on March 6-7, 2025, in Jackson, Mississippi.
Events
Ghosts in the Garden Scavenger Hunt
Join a monthlong scavenger hunt in the Eudora Welty House & Garden.
Ghosts in the Garden Scavenger Hunt
Join a monthlong scavenger hunt in the Eudora Welty House & Garden.
Fannie Lou Hamer Birthday Tours
Education staff at the Two Mississippi Museums will offer tours to guests at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Articles and Publications
MDAH and our partner organizations produce a number of detailed publications related to Mississippi history and prehistory. Select a publication for information on topics, purchasing or subscribing.
