Junior League of Jackson Donates $100,000 to MDAH’s Crigler Park Project
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.
The donation from the Junior League of Jackson, which has a mission that includes community improvement, advances construction of the park that will be located next to the Two Mississippi Museums — the Museum of Mississippi History and Mississippi Civil Rights Museum.
“The Junior League of Jackson is honored to play a role in the development of Margaret Ann Crigler Park,” said Molly Griffin, president of the Junior League of Jackson. “As an extension of the Two Mississippi Museums, this innovative outdoor classroom represents a meaningful investment in our city and state. We believe it will significantly support our mission to promote academic growth as well as the health and mental well-being of children and youth.”
Designed as a vibrant gathering place for families, students, and museum visitors, the park will connect history, nature, and community while serving as a natural link along the city’s growing Museum Trail — drawing people into a space that combines learning and leisure. The park will feature native landscaping, an open lawn, a children’s play area and an outdoor stage.
“This project can be accomplished only with support from community partners like the Junior League of Jackson,” said Katie Blount, director of MDAH. “We’re grateful for their contribution and hope it will inspire others to champion this project that enhances Mississippi’s capital city.”
In 2024, MDAH acquired the former Eudora Welty Library property with plans to replace the building with a new public park and green space. The plans for the project align with the original layout for Jackson from 1822, which included public green spaces on alternating blocks. Only two parks remain from the original layout: the Old Capitol Green and Smith Park.
The first $1 million for the project was donated by retired businessman Noble T. Crigler, and the park will be named after his late wife, Margaret Ann Crigler. In March, the Community Foundation for Mississippi made a $1 million donation to the Foundation for Mississippi History for the park. The Mississippi Legislature has provided $3 million for the project.
Founded in 1902, MDAH collects, preserves, and provides access to the archival resources of the state. The agency empowers people and places by telling Mississippi’s many stories.
The Foundation for Mississippi History is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that conducts fundraising efforts to support and promote the projects and programs of MDAH, which operates the Museum of Mississippi History, Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, Eudora Welty House & Garden, Grand Village of the Natchez Indians, Old Capitol Museum, Windsor Ruins, Historic Jefferson College, and Winterville Mounds.