Tupelo was originally called Gum Pond, for the sweetgum trees that grow there. Following the Civil War, its name was changed to Tupelo, again, a name that reflected the name of the sweetgum tree. It was located at the crossing of two railroads, which brought commerce to the area. In 1870 the city was incorporated.

Tupelo made history in 1934 as the first city to be powered by the Tennessee Valley Authority.

It made national news again in 1936 when a tornado outbreak that started in the vicinity, spread eastward across Alabama, into Gainesville, Georgia, leaving 436 people dead. It finally died out in South Carolina.

Tupelo, Mississippi is a complete surprise to the unknowing first-time visitor. Everybody knows it’s Elvis Presley’s birthplace and that alone garners it a large amount of tourist traffic, but it has a surprising number of attractions to be seen and experienced.

Things to do and see in the Tupelo Area:

Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum - Elvis was born in this house in Tupelo, Mississippi. Elvis' father spent 180 dollars for materials and built the house himself. Today, this humble little two room house hosts tens of thousands of visitors from all over the world! It is adjacent to the Elvis Presley Museum.

Natchez Trace Parkway - Originally the Natchez Trace was a trail accomodating travelers and goods between Nashville, Tennessee and Natchez, Mississippi. Originally developed and used by the native tribes of the US. Today the trace is a beautiful 444-mile drive taking the explorer through scenic areas. A Visitors Center is located in Tupelo.

Tupelo National Battlefield - The Battle of Tupelo involved more than 20,000 troops and was fought from the morning of July 14, 1864 until the evening of July 15, 1864 when Union forces finally retreated.

Brice Crossroads National Battlefield Site - On June 10, 1864 Union troops under the command of General Sturgis were ordered to engage and if possible, destroy the forces of Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest. Once again, Forrest's troops gained a very decisive victory in spite of being outnumbered.

Tupelo Automobile Museum - This museum contains many rare, perfectly restored antique cars and related memorabilia

The Oren Dunn City Museum - Much of the history of this region is clearly shown here.

Tupelo Buffalo Park - Animal lovers and children love this place.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE CITY OF TUPELO, CLICK HERE