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
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.
The Junior League of Jackson has announced a $100,000 donation to the Foundation for Mississippi History to support the creation of Margaret Ann Crigler Park, a new public green space in downtown Jackson.
Two Mississippi students were recognized with the Senior Mississippi Outstanding Affiliate Award during the 2025 National History Day contest, held this week in College Park, Maryland.
NASHVILLE, TN—June 2025—The American Association for State and Local History (AASLH) proudly announces that Katie Blount, director of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History (MDAH), is the recipient of an Individual Lifetime Achievement Award for her work to preserve the stories of Mis
Events
Free Sundays at the Two Mississippi Museums
Admission to the Two Mississippi Museums is free every Sunday.
Sunday Screening of Talkin' Clarksdale: A Contemporary Blues Documentary
Join us for a screening of Talkin' Clarksdale: A Contemporary Blues Documentary at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 27, in the Craig H. Neilsen Auditorium of the Two Mississippi Museums. Directed by Tommy Slack, the sixty-minute film takes a look at contemporary blues music, exploring its influence on the voices of today’s musicians, venue owners, historians, and philanthropists dedicated to preserving its legacy. Following the screening, a panel discussion will take place with Slack, producer Demmette Guidry, and associate producer Adrian “Rev Slim” Forrest. Before Talking Clarksdale, the Sunday Screening team will show a short film titled The Story of Ben Williams. Directed by Fred Nettles, the movie tells the story of Ben Williams who became the first Black football player at the University of Mississippi in 1972. For more information, call 601-576-6850 or email info@mdah.ms.gov.
Welty Wednesdays
Join the Eudora Welty House & Garden (EWHG) for Welty Wednesdays beginning Wednesday, January 8.
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.
