Noxubee County

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Origins and Early History

Noxubee County, Mississippi, was officially established on December 23, 1833, as part of the lands ceded by the Choctaw Nation in the Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek (1830). The county’s name, derived from the Choctaw word “nashoba,” means “to stink,” a reference to the swamps and fertile lowlands along the Noxubee River that characterized the region.

Before European-American settlement, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Choctaw, who left a rich cultural legacy. The land’s natural resources, including dense forests, rivers, and fertile soil, made it an appealing area for agriculture and trade.

Agriculture and Antebellum Period

During the 19th century, Noxubee County developed into an agricultural hub, with cotton becoming the primary crop. The fertile Black Belt prairie soils supported large plantations, worked predominantly by slavees. By the time of the Civil War, Noxubee was one of Mississippi’s most productive cotton-growing counties.

The county seat, Macon, was established early in the county’s history and became an important commercial and political center. Macon played a minor but notable role during the Civil War as the temporary capital of Mississippi when Jackson was threatened by Union forces.

Civil War and Reconstruction

Noxubee County was deeply impacted by the Civil War, which disrupted the plantation economy. The emancipation of the slaves and the destruction caused by the war left the region struggling during Reconstruction. Former slaves worked as sharecroppers or tenant farmers, continuing the dominance of cotton agriculture under different economic arrangements.

The Reconstruction period was marked by social and political upheaval, including violent resistance to the changes brought about by the war. White supremacist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan operated in the region, seeking to suppress Black political and economic advancement.

20th Century Development

Agriculture remained the backbone of Noxubee County’s economy into the early 20th century. However, the Great Depression and the decline of cotton prices caused significant hardship. Over time, the introduction of mechanized farming reduced the need for labor, leading to population decline as many Black families migrated north during the Great Migration.

During the mid-20th century, the county became known for its wildlife and conservation efforts. The establishment of the Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge in 1940 preserved large swaths of the area’s natural habitat, providing a sanctuary for a variety of plant and animal species and drawing eco-tourism to the region.

Civil Rights Era

The Civil Rights Movement brought attention to the racial inequalities in Noxubee County, as in much of the South. Efforts to desegregate schools and ensure voting rights for Blacks faced resistance but ultimately succeeded in reshaping the county’s political landscape. By the late 20th century, Black Americans constituted a significant portion of the county’s population and began to hold leadership positions in local government.

Modern Times

Today, Noxubee County remains a predominantly rural area with a rich cultural heritage. Agriculture, forestry, and eco-tourism continue to play important roles in the local economy. The county celebrates its history through various cultural and historical sites, including the Noxubee County Historical Museum and preserved landmarks in Macon.

The county’s diverse population reflects its complex history, with deep roots in the Native American, African American, and European American communities that shaped its development.