CENTURY 21 Maselle & Assoc.

Jackson, MS Area Guide

One of two county seats in Hinds County (Raymond is the other), Madison and Ranking counties also hold a part of it. Ranked third out of America’s 100 largest metro areas for the best “bang for your buck,” Jackson has seen its population grow to almost 174,000 through the years.

Jackson’s slogan, “Jackson, Mississippi: City with Soul,” is reflective of its musical roots as well as being a major part of the Civil Rights Movement. Named for Andrew Jackson when he was a general, the city is the anchor of the Metro area.

Rich with the history of this country, Jackson is one of the most populous cities in the state, its residents are proud of their history. With everything from museums to music, theaters to ball parks, Jackson is a great place to visit and even better place to live. Come visit us, enjoy the city and you’ll be looking for a Realtor soon!

History

Settled by a French Canadian trader, Jackson was originally called Parkerville. Situated along the historic Natchez Trace trade route, the area became known as LeFleur’s Bluff. Founded on the need for a centrally located capital for the state, it happened in 1821, the General Assembly meeting at the (then) capital of Natchez.
During the 18th and early 19th century, the area was crossed by the Natchez Trace, where a trading post stood until the Treaty of Doak’s Stand in 1820 formally opened the area for non native American settlers. In 1839, Jackson became part of being a trail blazer, the state of Mississippi passing a law that permitted married women to own and administer their own property.

First linked with other cities by the railroad in 1840, an 1844 map shows Jackson connected to other cities not located on the Mississippi River. Jackson didn’t develop like Vicksburg, Natchez and others, not being located on the Mississippi River. Instead, railroads would be responsible for the growth of the city in the decades after the Civil War.

Growth was stimulated in the 1930’s by the discovery of natural gas fields close by and the development of Hawkins Field during World War II. Among others, the Royal Netherlands Military Flying School was established there, after Nazi Germany occupied the Netherlands. Jackson is also the place that the first successful cadaveric lung transplant was performed at the University of Mississippi Medical Center by Dr. James Hardy. Since 1968, Jackson has also been the home of Malaco Records, one of the top record companies for gospel and soul music in the United States.

Attractions & Activities

The activities and attractions abound in Jackson, from the Arts in Jackson to the Alamo Theater to the Mississippi Blues Trails to great golf courses. The City of Soul offers visitors and residents alike things to do every day of the week that will enrich your life and your stay in Jackson. For a complete listing of things to do in Jackson, visit: Jackson Attractions & Activities

Jackson Zoo
The mission of the Jackson Zoo is to provide visitors with a quality recreational and educational environment dedicated to wildlife care and conservation. http://www.jacksonzoo.org/

Jackson Golf Courses - http://www.golflink.com/golf-courses/city.aspx?dest=jackson+ms

Parks & Recreation

Jackson has a park for everything and everything in a park. From picnic tables for a great Sunday lunch to baseball and basketball fields, you’ll find things for the whole family to enjoy, whether it’s a simple see saw or a tennis court. For a complete listing of Jackson’s parks and their amenities, visit: Jackson Parks & Recreation

Le Fleur's Bluff State Park
LeFleur’s Bluff provides a lush green spot in the heart of urban Jackson. In addition to camping, fishing, picnic spots, and nature trails, the 305-acre park features a nine-hole golf course and a driving range. http://home.mdwfp.com/

Events Calendar

Farish Street Festival
Enjoy Blues, Gospel, Jazz and R & B at its finest at the Farish Street Heritage Festival as we celebrate the area’s rich history. For more information visit: http://www.farishstfestival.com

CelticFest Mississippi
This event features Celtic music, art and educational workshops as well as family and children’s activities along with great food to celebrate Celtic history. For more information, visit: http://www.celticfestms.org

Mississippi State Fair
The annual state fair promises great fun, featuring classic rides, food and games as well as top name entertainment. Bring the whole family or spend the day with friends, enjoying all the fun to be had. For more information, visit: Mississippi State Fair

For a complete list of events in Jackson, visit: Jackson Events

To learn more about Jackson, visit: http://www.mississippi.gov