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
News & Events

Find the latest news, upcoming programs, and special exhibitions at the Mississippi Department of Archives and History.

News & Events

Volunteer

Be part of history. Volunteer with MDAH and help us preserve and connect Mississippi’s rich historic resources with people around the world.


Volunteer

News & Articles

The gun and its holster belonged to J.W. Milam, one of two White men who confessed to killing the Black youth 70 years ago – a crime that sparked the Civil Rights Movement

 

The Mississippi Department of Archives and History seeks applicants for the role of executive director. Current MDAH Director Katie Blount has announced her retirement.
Mississippi Department of Archives and History Director Katie Blount—who led the agency through the establishment of the nationally recognized Two Mississippi Museums and supported efforts to adopt a new state flag—has announced her retirement after leading MDAH since 2015. Blount’s retirement will be effective June 30, 2026.

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson held a news conference on Aug. 8 to announce that the 166th Mississippi State Fair, to be held Oct. 2-13, will participate in the nationwide Great American State Fair initiative, part of the America250 commemoration. Gipson was joined by Gov.

The Nissan Foundation has awarded a $40,000 grant to the Foundation for Mississippi History to support student field trips for the 2025–2026 school year at the Two Mississippi Museums—the Museu

The Mississippi Department of Archives and History kicked off commemoration of America 250 by hosting a Naturalization Ceremony at the Two Mississippi Museums. By an oath of citizenship administered by U.S. District Judge Daniel P.

Events

Free Sundays at the Two Mississippi Museums
September 14, 2025, 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

Admission to the Two Mississippi Museums is free every Sunday.

MDAH Board of Trustees Teleconference Meeting
September 16, 2025, 9:00 am - 9:30 am

The MDAH Board of Trustees will hold a teleconference meeting at 9 a.m. Tuesday, September 16, in the William F.

Swan Lake Canoe Gallery Talk
September 16, 2025, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Join us Tuesday, September 16, at 11 a.m. in the Museum of Mississippi History for a gallery talk on the Swan Lake Canoe. Discovered in 1989 on the banks of Swan Lake in Washington County, this remarkable dugout canoe highlights the skill and creativity of Native American makers. Former collections registrar Jo Miles-Seely and conservation director Katie Etre will talk about how the canoe was found, what it tells us, and how it’s been preserved. For more information, call 601-576-6850 or email info@mdah.ms.gov.