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Forrest County is a county located in the state of Mississippi in the United States. It was founded on December 22, 1908, and named in honor of Nathan Bedford Forrest, a famous Confederate general during the American Civil War. This county has a rich and interesting history that is worth exploring. In this article, we will take a look at seven interesting facts about Forrest County in Mississippi history.
1. Hattiesburg, the largest city in Forrest County, got its name from a lumberman named William H. Hardy. He named the city after his wife, Hattie. Hattiesburg was incorporated as a city in 1884.
2. The African American community played a significant role in the history of Forrest County. During the Civil Rights Movement, African Americans in Hattiesburg and surrounding areas actively worked towards desegregation and civil rights. The city was a site of several protests during this time period.
3. The University of Southern Mississippi, located in Hattiesburg, was originally known as Mississippi Normal College. It was established in 1910 as a training school for teachers.
4. During World War II, Camp Shelby was located in Forrest County and served as a major training site for soldiers. Today, it is still an active training center for the National Guard, Army Reserves, and active-duty Army.
5. In 1934, Bonnie and Clyde, the infamous outlaws, traveled through Hattiesburg. They were pursued by law enforcement and ultimately escaped, but not before robbing a local bank.
6. Camp Dantzler, a training camp for soldiers during World War I, was located in Forrest County. It was named after Major Norman H. Dantzler, who had served in the US military during the Spanish-American War.
7. The Sunrise community in Forrest County is home to one of Mississippi's largest Native American burial mounds. The mound is believed to have been built by the Hopewell culture over 2,000 years ago.
In conclusion, Forrest County has a fascinating history that spans over several centuries. From the contributions of the African American community to the establishment of training camps for soldiers during times of war, this county has played a pivotal role in the history of Mississippi and the United States.
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