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
November 28, 2023
History Is Lunch: Larry Morrisey and Terrence Shirley
Larry Morrisey and Terrence Shirley will present “Knots in the Safety Net: Oral Histories of The Community Health Centers of Mississippi” as part of the History Is Lunch series.
Possum Ridge Model Train Exhibit Opens
On Friday, December 1, the Possum Ridge model train exhibit will open at the Two Mississippi Museums. There is no charge to view the exhibit, which is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sundays from 11 to 5 p.m. The Possum Ridge exhibit will be closed on December 25, and will close on December 31.
Christmas by Candlelight Tour
Celebrate the holiday season with a tour of historic sites in downtown Jackson. Visit the Mississippi State Capitol, Mississippi Governor's Mansion, Old Capitol Museum, and the Two Mississippi Museums.
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.
