My first memories of historic Carrollton and Carroll County goes back to my earliest childhood growing up here. From attending Kindergarten at Carrollton Presbyterian Church at the Hart House through the years, I have learned so much about the historic importance of this community. Over time, many people have visited from various parts of Mississippi through the Pilgrimage and have gained a rich understanding of this area’s history.
Along with talented musicians, this area is noted for its history including landmarks such as homes, churches, many different structures, and cemeteries. These historic structures carry not only history but sentimental value. It has always been fascinating to me the history of this area, and so much of this has been recorded over the years in this newspaper.
Everything from the abundance of history this community offers, musicians and landmarks make for a memorable experience for Carroll countians and visitors. It is essential that we build on that. Carroll County Board of Supervisors President Jim Neill’s plans for the new park at Big Sand Creek becoming a reality will be important in all aspects here and that includes tourism that comes with the Carrollton Pilgrimage.
Here in Carroll County, with there being many places to visit, these landmarks have a rich history of people who have a connection to this area. J.Z George, Trent Lott, H.D. Money, and John McCain to name a few.
From the people to the structures, it has a story of this community that lives on throughout our lives. That goes for the citizens here and visitors alike.
The historic significance of this community will be on full display this weekend at the 2025 Carrollton Pilgrimage. Tickets will be sold at Carrollton Town Hall on Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. and church tours will be 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Grace Episcopal Church Carrollton Presbyterian Church, and Helms Chapel CME Church. Tickets available at Cotesworth this Saturday 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.
With a proud past and the optimism of the future, it is truly a community of where the past is present.
Ken Strachan serves as the mayor of North Carrollton is a member of the Mississippi Municipal League Board of directors, and is president of the North Central Mayor’s Association .
