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. The department has been led by outgoing director Katie Blount, retiring June 30, 2026, since February 2015. Barry White has been named the incoming director, beginning July 1, 2026.
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
Free Sundays at the Two Mississippi Museums
Admission to the Two Mississippi Museums in Jackson is free every Sunday.
Sunday Screening: The Whiskey Speech
Join us for a free event featuring a screening of The Whiskey Speech: Soggy Sweat and the Power of Storytelling at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 17, in the Craig H. Neilsen Auditorium at the Two Mississippi Museums. Judge Noah S. “Soggy” Sweat first delivered “The Whiskey Speech” at the King Edward Hotel in Jackson in 1952.
MDAH Board of Trustees Teleconference Meeting
The MDAH Board of Trustees will hold a teleconference meeting at 9 a.m., Tuesday, May 19, in the William F. Winter Archives and History Building.
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.
