The state of Mississippi began as a territory of the United States in 1798 under President Thomas Jefferson. Its borders extended as far north as the southern portion of what would later become Minnesota, east to include parts of Alabama, west to include portions of Louisiana and south to include the northwest portion of Florida as it was at the time (following the War of 1812). After much history, including the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, which opened up the Mississippi River to commerce, the territory became a state, by act of Congress, on December 10, 1817.

Today, the Biloxi area is one showplace after another with casinos attracting visitors from all parts of the world. This is a very good area in which to spend a vacation due to its proximity of so many other things. The most beautiful of Florida beaches only require a two hour drive. New Orleans is only about an hour's drive and there are countless other activities if one is interested in history, outdoor activity, attending live shows with big name entertainers or gaming.

Natchez has more antebellum homes than any place in the United States.

Port Gibson, Mississippi was described by General U.S. Grant during the Civil War as being too beautiful to destroy. He ordered that the city not be burned!

Flora, Mississippi has the only petrified forest in the US that is located east of the Mississippi River.

During a hail storm in Bovina, Mississippi on May 11, 1894, a gopher tortoise fell from the sky, totally encased in ice!

Palestine Gardens, in Lucedale is a five-acre miniature representation of the Holy Lands.

The world's largest Cactus Plantation, located in Edwards, Mississippi has over 3,000 varities of cacti and tropical plants.

The oldest structure in the Mississippi Valley, built in 1718, now houses the Old Spanish Fort Museum in Pascagoula. They have on display the world's largest known shrimp!

Oprah Winfrey is from Kosciusko, Mississippi

The house where Elvis Presley was born is still standing in Tupelo.