Ridgeland Receives Award of Merit

CITY OF RIDGELAND RECEIVES AWARD OF MERIT FROM THE MISSISSIPPI HISTORICAL SOCIETY

RIDGELAND, MS— The City of Ridgeland is proud to announce that it has received an Award of Merit from the Mississippi Historical Society for the Ridgeland History Trail. The award was presented on Friday, March 7, recognizing the trail’s contribution to preserving and showcasing local history. The History Trail was officially unveiled on October 1, 2024, as part of Ridgeland’s 125th anniversary celebration.

“We are deeply honored to receive this esteemed award from the Society for the Ridgeland History Trail. This recognition reflects our dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich history of our community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such meaningful work,” stated Mayor Gene McGee.

The Ridgeland History Trail features 22 interpretive wayside exhibits that highlight the area’s rich past, from its early days to the thriving community it is today. Designed to blend history with the City’s natural landscape, the trail provides an interactive and educational experience for visitors of all ages. It is located along Ridgeland’s extensive multi-use trails, with additional sites off the main path.

Pat Truesdale, President of the Historical Society of Ridgeland, confirmed that the history trail was in the making for three years, and she was excited when Jim Woodrick brought his concept to the group and helped to lead the effort. “Our history is about the first families who settled here and made a home for themselves; it’s about those with the vision to establish schools and churches; and it’s about folks who persevered through wars and economic downturns to create the prosperity we enjoy today,” said Woodrick.

The History Trail’s development team included Jim Woodrick, Matt Dodd, Nancy Batson, Kim Cooper, and Polly Hammett. Explore Ridgeland sponsored the project.

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 can be accessed at www.ridgelandms.org.