History Trail receives state recognition
The City of Ridgeland was recognized last week by the Mississippi Historical Society for creating the Ridgeland History Trail that unveiled in October.
The award was presented on Friday, March 7, recognizing the trail’s contribution to preserving and showcasing local history at the Historical Society’s annual meeting at the Two Mississippi Museums. The History Trail was officially unveiled on Oct. 1, 2024, as part of Ridgeland’s 125th anniversary celebration.
“We are deeply honored to receive this esteemed award from the Society for the Ridgeland History Trail,” Mayor Gene F. McGee said. “This recognition reflects our dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich history of our community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such meaningful work.”
The Ridgeland History Trail features 22 history markers at what the city calls “interpretive wayside exhibits” that highlight the area’s past, Kim Cooper, director of public relations for the city said..
“Designed to blend history with the City’s natural landscape, the trail provides an interactive and educational experience for visitors of all ages,” Cooper said. “It is located along Ridgeland’s extensive multi-use trails, with additional sites off the main path.”
The unveiling of the trail means the Historical Society can resume regular business. They held their first meeting in almost a year on Thursday, Feb. 27, at 1 p.m.
The meeting was held at the Ridgeland Library on School Street and included guest appearances from Mayor McGee and others. Members discussed club business, listened to a presentation on historical markers from Brother Rogers with the Mississippi Historical Society and began planning a cemetery tour in town for the future.
The society also recognized Kim Cooper and Matthew Dodd with the city for their help in making the history trail a reality.
Pat Truesdale, President of the Historical Society of Ridgeland, confirmed that the history trail was in the making for three years, and she said she was excited when Jim Woodrick brought his concept to the group and helped to lead the effort.
“Our history is about the first families who settled here and made a home for themselves; it’s about those with the vision to establish schools and churches; and it’s about folks who persevered through wars and economic downturns to create the prosperity we enjoy today,” said Woodrick.
The History Trail's development team included Jim Woodrick, Matt Dodd, Nancy Batson, Kim Cooper, and Polly Hammett. Explore Ridgeland sponsored the project.
The Ridgeland History Trail is open to the public year-round. Trail brochures are available at Ridgeland City Hall and Explore Ridgeland, and virtual tours can be accessed at www.ridgelandms.org.For more information on the historical society contact Cooper at city hall 601-856-7113.