The City of Hazlehurst is a beautiful historic small town located in Copiah County, the heart of central Mississippi.  Originally founded in 1819 by European Americans, they settled near the western part of the county on the banks of Bayou Pierre and named it Gallatin after their hometown of Gallatin, Tennessee.  In 1829, the town of Gallatin was incorporated by the state legislature.

 

In 1865, the railway system was being constructed and the rail station established in Copiah County, named after Colonel George H. Hazlehurst, began stimulating development and growth in the area. Meanwhile, Gallatin began to slowly decline. In, 1872 the legislature asked the board of supervisors to hold an election to decide the future county seat, and Hazlehurst was declared the winner.  The brick courthouse was taken down in Gallatin and reassembled in Hazlehurst.

 

The current courthouse was built in 1902. Today, this historic property is framed by magnolia trees in the center of Downtown Hazlehurst.  Gallatin Street runs east-west through the center of town by the courthouse, a reminder of the town’s early history and beginning.

 

Hazlehurst boasts many beautiful Antebellum style homes along historic Extension Street, and the downtown area continues to thrive with local retail and businesses providing a small-town atmosphere of southern hospitality and charm.

 

We are the birthplace of Robert Johnson and the Blues. He and many other locally known artist from the state are showcased in the Mississippi Music Museum located in the former train depot downtown.  Visitors from all over the world come to Mississippi to enjoy all the we have to offer. The museum is a must see for visitors during their time in our town. Along with many other events, the Mississippi Music Museum is also the site of the annual Rockin’ Railroad Festival which features all genres of live music including Gospel, Blues and Rock and Roll.

 

We invite you to visit our charming small town.

 

Hazlehurst – The Home of History, Heritage, Legacy