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
Events
Possum Ridge: Paint a Train
Join us for the Possum Ridge: Paint a Train workshop at 2 p.m. Saturday, December 13, at the Two Mississippi Museums. This family-friendly event will allow for visitors to assemble and paint a model train after a guided tour highlighting key features of the exhibit on display through December 31.
Eudora Welty House & Garden Holiday Open House
Join us on Saturday, December 13, at the Eudora Welty House & Garden for the Holiday Open House from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. beginning with Christmas carols sung by the McWillie Elementary Performing Artists. Flash tours and a children’s craft will be offered alongside vendors. This family-friendly event will conclude with a film screening on the Welty Lawn of The Muppets: A Christmas Carol.
Free Sundays at the Two Mississippi Museums
Admission to the Two Mississippi Museums is free every Sunday. This includes admission to the Hurricane Katrina: Mississippi Remembers, Photographs by Melody Golding on display through November 7. HORNE, a Ridgeland-based professional services firm, is the title sponsor of the exhibit.
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.
