Ridgeland unveils new History Trail near railroad
RIDGELAND — The Ridgeland History Trail, which features more than a dozen signs telling the stories of the city’s history, was revealed earlier this week at the plaza on the railroad off of Jackson Street.
The city hosted a community and press event on Tuesday at the Plaza at Old Town Crossing to commemorate the trail’s unveiling.
Speakers included Mayor Gene F. McGee, Jim Woodrick, and Nancy Batson of the Historical Society of Ridgeland, an opening prayer by the Rev. William Gilbert, Chris Chapman of Explore Ridgeland, and the special guest speaker, Walt Grayson of WJTV.
“What an exciting anniversary year we are having in Ridgeland! The launch of the History Trail is not only a milestone in our year-long celebration but will be a permanent feature for all to enjoy and learn about our great City’s history,” McGee said.
The unveiling also featured music from Matthew MaGee and Jimmy Turner.
The history trail has been in the works for some time and is made up of 22 trail markers scattered throughout the city.
The trail was designed and implemented by the Historical Society of Ridgeland, in collaboration with the Ridgeland Tourism Commission and the city of Ridgeland.
McGee said the trail serves three broad audiences. First are the people who have and cotninue to move to the city. Second are the students at the city’s schools. McGee said he hoped the trail would be a great research source and jumping-off point for history projects and lessons.
Finally, McGee said this would be an additional draw for tourists to the city.
“That all adds up to something very positive for our city,” McGee said Wednesday, reflecting on the event.
He added his thanks to the Historical Society as well Kim Cooper and Matt Dodd with the city who he said were instrumental in making the History Trail a reality.
“They really stepped up to the plate,” McGee said.
During the ceremony, Grayson said the most effective lessons are usually delivered through stories.
“People remember stories,” he told the crowd. “When people pass by these signs they will see it and read it and even if they don’t read it they will know there is a story there.”
The first marker was unveiled last year at city hall that gives a brief overview of Ridgeland’s history. It also highlights the tenure of mayors Pardon L. Porter and Zimri Long.
The Ridgeland History Trail features a series of interpretive wayside exhibits that shed light on the area’s past.
By integrating history with the city’s natural landscape, the trail provides an educational experience for all ages.
“We are thrilled to introduce the Ridgeland History Trail to the community,” Woodrick said. “This trail allows us to celebrate and share the diverse history of our City, offering residents and tourists alike a meaningful way to connect with Ridgeland’s heritage.”
Chris Chapman with the Ridgeland Tourism Commission expressed their enthusiasm for the project.
“We are always looking for ways to enhance the visitor experience in Ridgeland. The History Trail does just that by offering a unique journey through our city’s cultural and historical landscape,” Chapman said.
The Ridgeland Tourism Commission sponsored the trail’s development.
The city was also excited to announce that the Virtual History Trail went live on the city’s website on the day of the launch.
Other members are: Nancy Batson, Pat Truesdale, Jim Woodrick, Robby Carr, Polly Hammett, Donna Dye, Mike Porter, Jane McGee, D.I. Smith, Bill Lee, Matt Dodd, Lisa Walters, Bryan Johnson, Linda Bynum, Karen McKie, Kenya Rachel, Carol Fitzgerald, Explore Ridgeland staff, Ben McDonald, and William Gilbert.
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 are available at www.ridgelandms.org.